Is it easy to book a tiger safari on the same day of your visit? Not really! The Jim Corbett National Park allows for a Dhikala safari booking based on whether you have all the permits to enter. In this blog, we will further explain what this means, including guiding you on a hassle-free Dhikala canter safari booking.
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ToggleWhy Dhikala is a must-visit for Wildlife Lovers
The Dhikala zone in Corbett National Park is a natural beauty that remains unexplored by many tourists. This zone is one of the largest in the tiger reserve, where you can see Sal forests, valleys, vast green lands, and rivers. The Ramganga River that runs through the Corbett Forest is the reason for its lush green landscape and biodiversity.
A Dhikala safari booking not only gives you a tour around the forest with trees and birds. It has several attractions that will leave you spellbound as you witness the Royal Bengal Tiger and the Asiatic Elephant herd. Other wildlife animals include Spotted Deer, Leopards, Sambar Deer, Langurs, Crocodiles, Hog Deer, Wild Boar, etc.
Dhikala Safari Booking in Detail
You must know a few things before you do a Dhikala safari booking. For instance, checking availability online for the safari permit on the Jim Corbett website. You can book the Dhikala Canter Safari from 15th November to 15th June when the Dhikala zone is open to wildlife lovers.
Also, you can book the Canter Safari at least one and a half months (45 days) before your visit. If you are visiting India from outside the country, you need to book it at least 90 days prior.
Some people may book on the same day for a Corbett booking in Nainital, but it depends on the availability of the canter safari, which is subject to a first-come, first-served basis. The Canter safari can take up to 16 people in its vehicle, and it costs Rs 2,500 per Indian or Rs 5,000 per foreigner. People/children aged 12 years and above are allowed on the Canter Jeep, which is important to specify while booking the tour.
Once you book the permit, you must pay for hiring a naturalist or guide while also hiring the Canter. You must do this if you want to gain entry through the Dhangari Gate at this tiger reserve.
Tips for Stress-Free Dhikala Safari Booking
There are a few checkpoints you need to consider so that you can effortlessly book your Dhikala Canter Safari:
- A Canter safari at Corbett can also be taken by visitors who do not have an overnight stay permit.
- It would be better to go through the terms and conditions before booking your visit for a Canter Safari.
- Make sure you add your details accurately, from your full name to your gender, ID proof, ID number, and age.
- You must pay for the Canter driver and guide charges separately, apart from the Canter vehicle’s seat per person charges. These charges are shown to you on the permit you receive.
- You cannot get a refund once you do your Dhikala safari booking, so make sure you select the right dates and block your calendar. However, let’s say you booked your ticket, but the permit, due to some technical issue, was not generated. You can go to the Refund Status, select ‘customer’, enter your mobile number to get an OTP, and submit. You should get your booking amount refunded to your account.
- You do not need a permit for a child below 12 years of age, unless they need a separate seat.
What to Expect During Your Dhikala Stay
Experiencing the Dhikala stay is nothing short of memorable as it offers several sightings, including the foliage and wild animals. So, don’t forget to use your binoculars and camera to capture the wildest and best aspects of nature.
So, when you are at Dhikala, you will get to explore:
- The wilderness and the Sambar Road, where you are likely to spot a tiger.
- Get to view the vast valleys in this zone.
- Get a Game Drive in the Sal Forest, witness the dense rivers flowing by, and view the foothills.
How to Reach Dhikala
The Dhikala Zone is well-connected by transport networks, be it by car, flight, or train.
- By Road: The Dhikala Zone is around 300 km from Delhi, which takes at least six hours by road. If you are driving from Delhi, the usual route is via Hapur, Garhmukteshwar, Moradabad, Thakurdwara, Ramnagar, and then onward to Dhikala.
- By Train: The Ramnagar Railway Station is closest to the Dhikala zone, so you can get off at this station if you are travelling by train.
- By Air: Book a flight to the Pantnagar airport, and then hire a cab, which can take you to the Corbett Park (50 Km).
An adventure awaits you at the Dhikala Canter Safari, so don’t hesitate to go this year. It’s the wild side of nature that you shouldn’t miss in any lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dhikala Safari Booking
1. Which Zone is better, Dhikala or Bijrani?
Both zones offer amazing experiences with different features:
Dhikala Zone is ideal for deep-jungle adventure with misty mornings, elephant sightings, and potential tiger encounters. The landscape features striking terrain that feels untamed and wild. Accessible only via Dhangari Gate.
Bijrani Zone is more convenient—located just 1 km from Ramnagar (Amdanda Gate). Still offers excellent wildlife: tigers, leopards, deer, and birds. Highly popular for day safaris with dense forests and open grasslands. Best for travelers who want wildlife sightings without long travel times.
2. How to enter the Dhikala Zone?
– Book safari permits online at the official website.
– Book at least 45–90 days in advance (Indian nationals: 45–30 days; Foreign nationals: 120–90 days).
– Entry requires a registered guide + 4WD vehicle (jeep or canter).
– Overnight stay: Dhikala Forest Rest House (FRH) needs a separate booking.
– Entry gate: Dhangari Gate (18–19 km from Ramnagar).
– Season: Open 15th Nov – 15th June (closed during monsoon).
 3. Is a jeep safari allowed in Dhikala?
Yes! Jeep safaris and Canter safaris are available in the Dhikala Zone with a valid permit and guide.
– Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
– Afternoon Safari: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (timings vary by season)
4. Which zone is best in Jim Corbett for a Jeep Safari?
Bijrani Zone – Most popular for jeep safaris, easy access (Amdanda Gate), and high tiger-spotting chances. Best for day travelers.
Dhikala Zone – Best for a full jungle experience with elephants and tigers, striking terrain, but harder to book (requires 45–90 days’ booking). Best for overnight safari stays.
Both are widely regarded as the best safari zones due to rich biodiversity and higher wildlife sightings (tigers, elephants, deer).









