Dhikala Forest Lodge / Rest House / Zone (Jim Corbett National Park) Dhikala is one of the most popular sought after tourist accommodation in Corbett Tiger Reserve. Herd of elephants and spotted deers pack the vast expanse of famous Dhikala Chaur. This is probably the best place in the Tiger Reserve to spot very rare Hog Deer.
Top Attractions in Dhikala Zone, Jim Corbett National Park
- Canter Safari
For visitors staying outside the Dhikala Zone, the Canter Safari is the best way to experience Corbett’s vibrant wildlife. The 16-seater open vehicle runs between Ramnagar and Dhikala, allowing travelers to witness the beauty of the jungle without staying inside the core zone. Advance online booking through the official portal is required to secure seats for this unforgettable safari adventure. - Chaurs (Grasslands)
Dhikala is famous for its vast grasslands, locally known as Chaurs. These open meadows are teeming with wildlife — Elephants, Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, and Hog Deer roam freely here. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the elusive Tiger as it moves gracefully across the plains or hunts its prey, offering a heart-pounding moment for any wildlife enthusiast. - Watch Tower at Dhikala
Positioned strategically near the Dhikala Forest Rest House, the Watch Tower provides sweeping views of the grasslands and the Ramganga River. Just a short 10-minute walk from the rest house, this vantage point overlooks a waterhole frequently visited by Deer, Elephants, Wild Pigs, and occasionally Tigers — making it a must-visit for anyone hoping to capture the perfect wildlife sighting. - Crocodile Point at Gairal
On the route from Gairal to the western forest rest houses, lies the remarkable Crocodile Point — a natural, balcony-like viewpoint overlooking a deep pool inhabited by crocodiles year-round. It’s an ideal location to watch these prehistoric reptiles in their natural habitat, basking in the sun or gliding silently through the waters. - Sambar Trail
Stretching between the Dhikala Watch Tower and the Khinanauli Rest House, the Sambar Trail is one of Corbett’s most promising routes for Tiger sightings. Flanked by hills and riverbeds, this trail acts as a wildlife corridor for Elephants and numerous other animals. Bird lovers can spot raptors like the Crested Serpent Eagle along the way.
Common deer species found here include Spotted Deer (Chital), Para (Axis porcinus), Sambar (Cervus unicolor), and Barking Deer (Muntiacus muntjak) — the latter known for its distinctive dog-like call. During the Mahua flowering season, Sloth Bears are often seen in this region, sometimes appearing tipsy after consuming naturally fermented Mahua nectar — a fascinating sight unique to this forest. - Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Blessed with dense forests and plentiful water sources, Dhikala is a birdwatcher’s haven. From graceful waterfowl and majestic raptors to vividly colored forest birds, the area supports a rich diversity of avian species. It’s a paradise for both ornithologists and nature photographers, offering endless opportunities to observe and capture the beauty of birdlife. - Open & Close Timings
Open Season: 15th November to 15th June — the best period to visit and explore Dhikala’s wilderness.
Closed Season: 16th June to 14th November — the zone remains closed due to the monsoon, when rising water levels make entry difficult and unsafe.
