Dhikala Zone

Dhikala is one of the most renowned and sought-after tourist destinations in Corbett Tiger Reserve. The vast grasslands of Dhikala Chaur are home to herds of elephants, spotted deer, and the rare Hog Deer, making it a prime location for wildlife sightings. It is considered one of the best spots in the reserve for observing wildlife in its natural habitat.

Staying in Dhikala is a dream experience for every wildlife enthusiast. The entry to this zone is through the Dhangari Gate, located 18 km from Ramnagar, while the Dhikala Tourist Complex is another 31 km inside the gate. Open to visitors from 15th November to 15th June, Dhikala remains closed during the monsoon. Overlooking the serene Ramganga Reservoir, this zone offers breathtaking views and an opportunity to witness crocodiles and gharials basking along the riverbanks.

Accommodation: Dhikala Forest Rest House

Dhikala offers multiple types of accommodations ranging from Forest Rest Houses, cabins, and hutments to annexe rooms and dormitories. A total of 24 bunk beds are also available in log huts, ensuring comfort with basic facilities for all visitors.

Food & Other Services

A multi-cuisine restaurant at Dhikala Tourist Complex caters to the needs of visitors, serving delicious buffet meals with a variety of options. A small canteen is also available. Guests can enjoy wildlife documentary screenings in the evening and spend leisure time in the well-stocked library.

Night Stay

Dhikala Forest Rest House

Situated at the edge of the Patli Dun Valley, Dhikala offers mesmerizing views of the Ramganga River with the Kanda ridge as a backdrop. The old FRH building, constructed in the 1890s, holds historic significance as the launch site of “Project Tiger.” Initially used by forest officials, it was opened to tourists in 1975, and since then, the accommodations have been expanded. Today, the complex is self-sufficient with restaurants, safari services, nature guides, a library, movie shows, walking trails, and even a post office. Watchtowers nearby provide excellent vantage points to observe the Ramganga riverbed and the expansive chaurs.

• Hutment

  Room Type: Hutment (Double Bed)
  Location: Dhikala
  Entry Gate: Dhangari Gate
  No. of Rooms: 6
  Restaurant & Canteen: Yes

• Cabin - Double Bed

  Room Type: Cabin (Double Bed)
  Location: Dhikala
  Entry Gate: Dhangari Gate
  No. of Rooms: 3
  Restaurant & Canteen: Yes

• New FRH - Double Bed

  Room Type: New FRH (Double Bed)
  Location: Dhikala
  Entry Gate: Dhangari Gate
  No. of Rooms: 4
  Restaurant & Canteen: Yes

• Old FRH - Double Bed

  Room Type: Old FRH (Double Bed)
  Location: Dhikala
  Entry Gate: Dhangari Gate
  No. of Rooms: 5
  Restaurant & Canteen: Yes

• Annexe Rooms - Double Bed

  Room Type: Annexe Room (Double Bed)
  Location: Dhikala
  Entry Gate: Dhangari Gate
  No. of Rooms: 7
  Restaurant & Canteen: Yes

• Dhikala Dormitory (Log Hut)

  Room Type: Log Hut (Dormitory)
  Location: Dhikala
  Entry Gate: Dhangari Gate
  No. of Rooms: 12
  Restaurant & Canteen: Yes

Attractions

1. Canter Safari

A canter safari is an excellent way for visitors staying outside Dhikala Zone to explore its rich wildlife. The 16-seater open-air bus departs from Ramnagar to Dhikala and returns the same day. Advance booking via the official website is mandatory.

2. Chaurs (Grasslands)

The vast grasslands of Dhikala are teeming with elephants, spotted deer, wild pigs, and hog deer. Tigers are often seen here, either crossing the plains or hunting prey.

3. Watchtower

Located just 10 minutes’ walk from the FRH, the Dhikala Watchtower offers stunning views of the Ramganga riverbed and surrounding chaurs. A nearby waterhole attracts deer, elephants, wild pigs, and occasionally tigers.

4. Crocodile Point at Gairal

This natural balcony-like spot overlooks a pool inhabited by crocodiles, making it a thrilling viewing point on the route from Gairal to other rest houses.

5. Sambar Trail

This jungle trail runs from the Dhikala Watchtower to Khinanauli Rest House and is one of the best places for tiger sightings. Its location between the riverbed and hills makes it a hotspot for animals heading to water sources. Elephants and deer are common here, while bird watchers can enjoy spotting numerous species. Sloth bears, often seen in this region, are drawn to termites and Mahua flowers. Visitors should remain cautious while driving near sunset, as wildlife activity is high.

Visitors may encounter a variety of deer species including Spotted Deer, Sambar, Barking Deer, and more. The zone is a paradise for both wildlife lovers and bird watchers, offering one of the best chances to see tigers, elephants, and even sloth bears.

Open & Close Timings

How to Reach Dhikala

Dhikala can be accessed via the Dhangari Gate, which is 18 km from Ramnagar. The journey further continues to the Dhikala Tourist Complex inside the reserve.

Dhikala Range Entry Timing

Entry through Dhangari Gate is permitted between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Please note that Corbett Tiger Reserve remains closed during monsoon months, with advance reservations suspended between 1st to 15th June due to weather uncertainties.