Dhikala Zone — Crown of Corbett

Where India's Tigers Rule Open Grasslands

Dhikala Zone covers the largest core area of Jim Corbett National Park and is widely considered the finest wildlife zone in the Indian subcontinent. The zone centres around the Dhikala chaur — a massive floodplain grassland flanked by the Ramganga reservoir on one side and thick sal forest on the other.

Unlike other Corbett zones where you navigate dense jungle, Dhikala offers long sightlines across grasslands. Tigers, leopards and elephants move in the open. Elephant herds numbering 50–100 are common. The grassland is a raptor hotspot — crested serpent eagle, changeable hawk-eagle and osprey hunt here daily.

A full-day Dhikala safari departs early morning and returns after sunset, giving you the best of all three peak wildlife activity periods. Overnight stays at the Dhikala Forest Rest House (booked through the Forest Department) are the gold standard Corbett experience.

Plan Your Dhikala Day

Safari Fees (approx.)

Make the Most of Your Safari

• Book Dhikala permits 30–60 days in advance — it is the most sought-after zone in India and fills quickly.
• Full-day safaris give the best value. The midday hours (10 AM–2 PM) still yield sightings near waterholes in summer.
• Wear muted earth tones — olive, khaki or brown. Avoid bright colours and white.
• Carry a 300mm+ telephoto lens for tiger photography. The open grassland means subjects are often 100–300 metres away.
• The reservoir is stunning at sunrise — position for the east bank for the best golden-hour lighting.
• Bring layers in winter (Nov–Feb). The open chaur is cold at dawn — temperatures can drop to 4°C in January.