Safari zones compared
Corbett Tiger Reserve runs eight tourism zones, each issued as a separate permit that cannot be switched on the day. The monsoon (July to October) closes Dhikala, Bijrani, Durga Devi, Garjia and Phato; Jhirna, Dhela and Sitabani stay open year-round.
- Dhikala: The largest zone: grasslands along the Ramganga reservoir, reachable only by the shared Canter safari, not a private jeep. Open 15 Nov-15 Jun.
- Bijrani: Dense sal forest a few minutes from Ramnagar town, generally the most reliable zone for tiger and leopard sightings. Open mid-Oct-30 Jun.
- Jhirna: The only core-adjacent zone open year-round, with dependable elephant-herd sightings; the default choice during the monsoon closure.
- Dhela: A newer eco-tourism zone on buffer land with shorter routes and a calmer pace. Open year-round.
- Durga Devi: A hilly, riverine zone at the confluence of the Ramganga and Mandal rivers - the strongest zone for birdwatchers. Open mid-Nov-15 Jun.
- Sitabani: A buffer forest with no fixed permit quota and flexible timing. Open year-round.
- Garjia: Opened to spread visitor load, with its gate near the Garjia Devi temple about 10 km north of Ramnagar. Open 15 Oct-30 Jun.
- Phato: A quieter zone run by the Ramnagar Forest Division and one of the least crowded. Open mid-Nov-15 Jun.
Safari guides