Dhikala is widely recognized as the core area of Jim Corbett National Park, situated approximately 55 kilometers from Ramnagar town. The zone is accessible via Dhangari gate, which is located 20 km from Ramnagar, with the Dhikala tourist complex being 35 km from this entry point. This strategic location places visitors in the heart of the park’s most biodiverse region.
What makes Dhikala particularly special is its varied landscape featuring dense sal forests, expansive grasslands, and the scenic Ramganga Reservoir. The zone derives its name from the Dhikala chaur (grassland), one of the largest grasslands in Asia, which attracts numerous herbivores and consequently, predators. The forest rest house complex overlooks the Ramganga Reservoir, offering spectacular panoramic views that enhance the visitor experience.
Dhikala Zone boasts exceptional biodiversity, making it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors have opportunities to spot:
The combination of diverse habitats within Dhikala creates multiple ecological niches that support this remarkable range of wildlife, making each safari a potentially different experience.
Dhikala Zone operates seasonally, open to tourists from November 15th to June 15th each year. Due to heavy rainfall and challenging conditions during the monsoon period (mid-June to mid-November), the zone remains closed. This seasonal operation helps maintain the ecological balance while ensuring visitor safety.
Morning pickup from Ramnagar (approximately 10:00 am)
Travel to Dhikala Rest House via Dhangari gate, with wildlife viewing en route
Permit verification at Dhangari entrance
Lunch at the forest rest house
Evening jeep safari at 2:30 pm (approximately 4 hours duration)
Return to rest house for dinner and overnight stay
Early morning jeep safari (6:00 am to 9:30 am) around the grasslands of Dhikala
Return to rest house for breakfast
Check-out and return journey to Ramnagar
Visit crocodile point and high bank en route
Tour concludes at Ramnagar
The zone is open from November 15 to June 15 annually, and closed during the monsoon period. For optimal wildlife sightings, the cooler months from November to February and the pre-monsoon period of April to mid-June are particularly good.
Bookings can be made through authorized tour operators or the official Jim Corbett National Park website. Advance booking is essential, especially during peak tourist seasons, as permits are limited.
Dhikala offers opportunities to spot Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, various deer species (Sambar, Spotted, Barking, and Hog deer), jackals, sloth bears, crocodiles, pythons, king cobras, and numerous bird species.
Meal inclusion varies by package. Some packages include all meals, while others list meals as an exclusion. The Dhikala complex has canteen facilities where meals can be purchased separately if not included in your package.
Essential items include comfortable clothing in earth tones, a warm layer for morning safaris, binoculars, a camera with zoom lens, insect repellent, sunscreen, and any personal medications. Bringing cash is advisable as ATM facilities are limited within the park.
Access to Dhikala Zone typically requires overnight stay permits. Day visitors usually need to opt for other zones or safari options within Jim Corbett National Park
Safari vehicles are typically 4×4 jeeps that can accommodate up to 6 adults and 2 children (ages 5–12). These open vehicles provide excellent visibility for wildlife viewing.
