Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand is India’s oldest national park and one of the best places in the world to spot the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. Spread across dense Sal forests, river valleys, and grasslands, Corbett offers a variety of landscapes and safari experiences.
Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris, canter rides, birdwatching tours, and nature walks, depending on the zone they choose.
Core Tiger Safari Zones in Corbett
Below are the most popular and rewarding zones for tiger sightings inside the park:
Dhikala Zone
Dhikala is the largest and most famous zone of Corbett. It stretches along the Ramganga River and is home to diverse habitats including grasslands, riverbanks, and thick forests.
The zone is known for high chances of tiger and elephant sightings, along with spotted deer, wild boar, and a wide range of bird species.
Dhikala also offers forest rest houses, allowing visitors to stay overnight inside the park for a truly wild experience.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-November to June
Entry Gate: Dhangarhi Gate
Bijrani Zone
The Bijrani Zone is highly popular for its balanced terrain – open grasslands, dense sal forests, and sandy riverbeds. It is also among the top zones for tiger and leopard sightings.
The lush scenery makes it ideal for photography and jeep safaris.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-October to June
Entry Gate: Aamdanda Gate (near Ramnagar)
Jhirna Zone
Located on the southern edge of the park, Jhirna Zone is open throughout the year, even during the monsoon. It has dry deciduous forest and open grasslands that attract herbivores like deer and elephants, making it an active hunting ground for tigers.
Best Time to Visit: All Year Round
Entry Gate: Dhela Gate
Dhela Zone
Dhela Zone is a relatively new addition, opened in 2014. It combines forest, grassland, and swampy terrain, making it rich in biodiversity. Sightings of elephants, deer, and sometimes leopards and tigers are common.
Because it’s less crowded, Dhela offers a peaceful safari experience.
Best Time to Visit: All Year Round
Entry Gate: Dhela Gate
Durga Devi Zone
This scenic, hilly area lies on the north-eastern side of Corbett. The zone runs along the Ramganga River and Mandal River, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and occasional tiger and leopard sightings.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-November to June
Entry Gate: Durga Devi Gate
Sitabani (Reserve Forest Zone)
Sitabani is a buffer zone, located outside the main park boundary. Though not part of the core tiger reserve, it offers a relaxing drive through forests and riverside areas rich in birdlife, elephants, and sometimes tigers crossing from the core area.
It’s a good alternative for those who don’t get core zone permits.
Best Time to Visit: All Year Round
Entry Gate: Near Teda Village or Pawalgarh area
