Dhikala forest lodge

Dhikala Forest Lodge is one of the most popular and unique places to stay inside Jim Corbett National Park. Located deep within the core area of the park, Dhikala offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience the wilderness up close. Surrounded by dense forests, vast grasslands, and the Ramganga River, the lodge provides an unforgettable stay for wildlife lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Unlike hotels outside the park, staying at Dhikala Forest Lodge allows guests to live in the heart of the jungle and experience the sounds and beauty of the forest throughout the day and night.

Location and Accessibility

Dhikala Forest Lodge is located approximately 32 km from the Dhangarhi Gate, which is the main entry point to the Dhikala zone. Visitors must travel through forest trails, riverbeds, and scenic jungle routes to reach the lodge.

Entry into this area is strictly regulated by the forest department. Only visitors with confirmed Dhikala accommodation bookings or authorised safari permits are allowed to enter the core zone.

Because Dhikala is located deep inside the forest, entry and exit are allowed only during designated daytime hours. The remote location ensures a peaceful environment and an authentic wilderness experience.

Accommodation and Facilities

Dhikala Forest Lodge is a government-operated property managed by the Uttarakhand Forest Department. The accommodation is simple and rustic but comfortable, designed to give visitors a true jungle experience.

The Dhikala complex includes several accommodation types:

New Forest Rest House

Old Forest Rest House

Hutments

Cabins

Annexes

All rooms provide basic but clean facilities including attached bathrooms, bedding, fans, and electricity during limited hours. Since the focus is on nature and wildlife, facilities such as television and luxury room service are not available.

Available Facilities

Canteen and kitchen serving simple vegetarian meals

Solar fencing for safety around the premises

Observation towers for wildlife viewing

Verandas with panoramic views of the forest and grasslands

Reception area with information about wildlife and safari routes

Why Stay at Dhikala Forest Lodge

Unique Location

Dhikala is located near the banks of the Ramganga River and overlooks large grasslands known as “chaurs”. These open areas attract a wide range of wildlife including deer, elephants, and sometimes tigers.

Better Wildlife Opportunities

Staying inside the park allows visitors to start their safaris early and explore deeper forest routes. This increases the chances of spotting wildlife compared to staying outside the park.

Authentic Jungle Experience

Dhikala offers a raw and natural experience. Guests can hear the sounds of the jungle at night, including distant tiger roars, bird calls, and elephant movements. It is an experience that cannot be replicated in regular resorts.

Wildlife in Dhikala Zone

The Dhikala zone is considered one of the best areas for wildlife sightings in Jim Corbett National Park. The landscape includes grasslands, dense sal forests, water bodies, and riverbanks that attract a wide variety of animals.

Visitors may see:

Royal Bengal Tigers

Asiatic Elephants

Leopards

Sambar Deer

Spotted Deer (Chital)

Hog Deer

Wild Boars

Gharials and Mugger Crocodiles

The area is also home to more than 600 species of birds, making it a great destination for bird watchers and wildlife photographers.

Safari Options

Visitors staying at Dhikala can enjoy safari experiences inside the core forest.

Jeep Safari

Jeep safaris are available for guests staying inside the Dhikala zone. These safaris take place in the morning and evening and are guided by trained forest guides.

Canter Safari

For visitors who are not staying inside Dhikala, Canter Safari is available. This safari is conducted in a 16-seater open vehicle and operates from Ramnagar.

Best Time to Visit

The Dhikala zone remains open for visitors from 15 November to 15 June each year. The park remains closed during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and road conditions.

Recommended Months

November to February – Pleasant weather and excellent bird watching opportunities.

March to June – Warmer weather but better chances of spotting tigers near water sources.

Important Booking Information

Accommodation and safari permits are limited and must be booked in advance. Visitors are required to carry valid government photo identification along with their booking confirmation.

Entry into the park is allowed only during designated hours and private vehicles are not permitted inside the core zone without authorised booking.

Mobile networks and internet connectivity are very limited inside the Dhikala area, making it a perfect place to disconnect from daily life and enjoy nature.

Visitor Tips

Carry comfortable clothing suitable for jungle safaris.

Bring binoculars and cameras for wildlife viewing.

Follow all forest department rules and listen to your safari guide.

Maintain silence and respect wildlife during safaris.

Experience the Heart of the Jungle

A stay at Dhikala Forest Lodge offers one of the most authentic wildlife experiences in India. From breathtaking landscapes to incredible wildlife sightings, Dhikala gives visitors a chance to truly connect with nature.

Plan your visit and experience the wilderness of Jim Corbett like never before.