Safari Timings (2025): According to current recommendations, Bijrani Zone remains open from mid-October to mid-June. Morning safaris generally run from 6:00 am–9:30 am, and evening safaris from 3:00 pm–6:30 pm.
Bijrani Zone: The Premier Safari Experience in Jim Corbett National Park
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Ramnagar
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Nature Guide
Overview
Bijrani Zone is one of the most popular and premium safari zones in Jim Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand, India. Considered the second-best zone after Dhikala for tiger sightings, Bijrani offers an exceptional wildlife experience with its diverse landscape and rich biodiversity.
Zone Overview
Location and Access: Bijrani Zone is strategically located just 1-2 kilometers from Ramnagar city, making it easily accessible for visitors. The entry point is through Amdanda Gate, and visitors must travel approximately 5 kilometers through a buffer zone before reaching the core safari area.
Historical Significance: During the British era, Bijrani was a renowned shooting block famous for quality game hunting. Today, it has transformed into a protected wildlife sanctuary that prioritizes conservation while offering controlled tourism.
Terrain and Landscape: The zone features a mixed topography with dense Sal forests, vast grasslands (called Chaurs), meandering streams, and waterholes. This diverse ecosystem creates the perfect habitat for various wildlife species.
- High Tiger Density: Bijrani has the most tiger population among all zones in Jim Corbett, offering excellent chances for Bengal tiger sightings
- Diverse Wildlife: Asian elephants, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, various deer species (Chital, Sambar, Hog deer), jackals, and monkeys
- Rich Birdlife: Over 600 species of resident and migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers
Unique Experiences
- Premium Safari Zone: Recognized as the oldest and most premium safari zone in Jim Corbett
- Elephant Safaris: Available for visitors staying at forest rest houses (when operational)
- Watch Towers: Strategic viewpoints for wildlife observation and photography
- River Points: Scenic spots along waterways perfect for wildlife sightings
Best Time to Visit
- Season: Open from October 15 to June 30 annually
- Optimal Period: Mid-November to June for best weather conditions
- Peak Time: Winter months (November-March) offer pleasant temperatures and higher wildlife activity
Additional Costs
- Guide Tips: Gratuity for naturalist guides (paid directly)
- Photography Fees: Special charges for professional photography
- Extra Safari: Additional safari beyond package inclusion
- Upgrade Charges: Premium accommodation or vehicle upgrades
Safari Details
Timings and Restrictions
- Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 9:30/10:00 AM
- Evening Safari: 2:00/3:00 PM – 5:30/6:00 PM
Trip Highlights
- Bengal tigers: Bijrani Zone maintains one of the highest tiger densities in the park, making sightings more probable than in several other zones
- Asian elephants: Herds frequently traverse the grasslands and forests
- Sloth bears: These elusive mammals are occasionally spotted foraging for termites and fruits
- Leopards: Though less commonly seen than tigers, these adaptable cats inhabit the zone
Tour Itinerary
Costs
The Cost Includes
- Transportation: Pickup and drop from Ramnagar
- Safari Permits: All entry fees and forest department charges
- Vehicle: Dedicated 4×4 jeep with driver
- Guide Services: Mandatory naturalist guide fees
The Cost Excludes
- Personal Expenses: Shopping, tips, personal purchases
- Insurance: Travel and medical insurance coverage
- GST: Applicable taxes (usually 5-18%)
- Transportation to Ramnagar: Travel from origin city to Ramnagar
Map
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While Dhikala offers larger grasslands, Bijrani provides better tiger sighting probabilities due to its dense Sal forests and controlled visitor numbers. Both zones share similar entry costs but differ in accommodation styles.
No. All safaris operate strictly within daylight hours (6 AM-6:30 PM) to minimize ecological disturbance.
Safari guides carry communication devices and follow prescribed routes. Vehicles maintain a 30m distance from elephant herds.
Permanent hides require special permits (₹2,000/day), and mobile hides are prohibited to prevent habitat fragmentation.
No connectivity exists within the core zone. The nearest network access is at Ramnagar.