Your Ultimate 2025 Guide to Jim Corbett National Park: 5 Safari Zones, Booking Info, and Accommodation

Jim Corbett National Park is a premier wildlife destination and the oldest national park in India, renowned for being the largest tiger reserve in the country. The best time to visit is between November and June to witness the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, along with other wildlife such as Asiatic elephants, leopards, and Sambar deer.

The park features several safari zones, each offering unique wildlife viewing experiences. Booking permits and vehicles are essential, and various accommodation options are available, ranging from basic lodges to luxury resorts.

5 Safari Zones at Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett is divided into five distinct safari zones that provide varied landscapes for wildlife observation:

• Dhikala Zone: The largest and most popular zone, perfect for overnight stays, offering the highest chances of tiger sightings.
• Bijrani Zone: Known for its beautiful scenery, featuring grasslands and mixed forests, making it a prime spot for spotting Bengal tigers.
• Jhirna Zone: Open year-round, this zone is a great place to see tigers, sloth bears, and different deer species.
• Dhela Zone: A new eco-tourism zone that remains accessible throughout the year, rich in biodiversity, where tigers are often spotted.
• Durga Devi Zone: Located in hilly terrain, this zone is ideal for bird watching, home to tigers and various rare bird species.

Booking Costs at the Tiger Reserve

To visit the park, you need to book a safari, which includes the entry fee and vehicle hire. Here are some key points regarding bookings:

1. A mandatory permit is required for park entry.
2. All bookings must be completed online.
3. Provide an official photo ID number for all travelers.
4. Bookings are non-refundable and non-transferable once confirmed.
5. Advance booking is crucial; slots fill up quickly.
6. Jeep safaris (up to six persons) are available in most zones.
7. For day visitors, the Dhikala zone only offers a Canter Safari (shared bus).
8. The total fee covers both park entry and vehicle hire.
9. Guide fees are usually a separate payment at the gate.
10. Carry the exact photo ID used for booking for verification at the entrance.

Where to Stay at Jim Corbett National Park

Accommodation options cater to various preferences:

• Inside the Reserve (Forest Rest Houses - FRHs): Offers an immersive jungle experience with basic lodging in zones like Dhikala, Bijrani, and Jhirna. Advance booking through the forest department is mandatory.
• Outside the Reserve (Ramnagar and Nearby): Luxury resorts and budget hotels are available in Ramnagar, providing excellent amenities for a comfortable stay.

These accommodations serve as ideal bases for day safaris, especially in areas like Dhikuli and Garjia, known for their scenic river views.