The Dhangari Gate serves as the primary entry point and houses a museum showcasing the history and local wildlife of Corbett National Park.
Dhikala remains one of the few zones within the tiger reserve that allows overnight stays for tourists inside the forest rest houses.
The zone contains the 'Chaurs' or large grasslands, which were once agricultural villages before the park's establishment, now serving as prime grazing land for herbivores.
The Ramganga River, which flows through the Dhikala zone, is a vital water source that supports a high concentration of wildlife during the dry season.
It is the only zone in the park where visitors can experience both grassland and riverine forest ecosystems in a single safari loop.
Dhikala Zone is the largest and most ecologically diverse core area of Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, India. Unlike typical zoos, it is a managed wildlife habitat situated along the Ramganga River basin, known for high densities of Bengal tigers and wild Asian elephants. Access to the zone is strictly regulated, requiring advance permits for entry through the Dhangari Gate. The area features a historic forest rest house built in the early 20th century. Visitors explore the zone primarily via guided jeep safaris across diverse terrains including vast grasslands known as chaurs and dense sal forests. The zone is home to a significant population of gharials and mugger crocodiles found along the riverbanks. Its remote location makes it a primary destination for serious wildlife photography and birdwatching.
The watchtower near the Dhikala Forest Rest House provides a panoramic view of the Ramganga River and the surrounding grasslands.
Book your permits and forest rest house accommodation months in advance as they sell out rapidly.
Carry high-quality binoculars and camera gear, as safaris are conducted from open-top vehicles with no permission to dismount.
Wear neutral-colored clothing that blends into the forest environment to avoid startling wildlife.
Avoid wearing bright, neon-colored clothing or using strong perfumes, as these can disturb the wildlife.
Closed annually during the monsoon season (mid-June to mid-November) due to track damage and animal breeding cycles.
Maintain absolute silence during safaris, do not litter, and never feed or attempt to attract animals with sound.
