Jim Corbett National Park is India's oldest national park and a top destination for tiger spotting. This guide covers safari zones, booking process, best visiting time, and how to plan your trip from Bareilly.
Safari Zones Overview
Jim Corbett has 6 safari zones, each with different terrain and wildlife density:
1. Dhikala Zone (Best for Tigers)
- Largest zone with highest tiger population
- Only zone with overnight stay option
- Requires 45-day advance booking
- Open: November 15 to June 15
2. Bijrani Zone
- Good tiger sighting probability
- Beautiful sal forest and grasslands
- Day visits only, no overnight stay
- Open: October 15 to June 30
3. Jhirna Zone
- Open year-round (only zone open in monsoon)
- Best for elephants and deer
- Easier to get same-day permits
- Good for first-time visitors
4. Durga Devi Zone
- Hilly terrain along Ramganga river
- Best for bird watching
- Leopard sightings common
- Open: November 15 to June 15
5. Sitabani Zone
- Buffer zone (not core area)
- No permit required, only entry fee
- Good for nature walks and bird watching
- Open year-round
6. Garjia Zone
- Named after Garjia Devi Temple
- Elephant and deer sightings
- Open: October 15 to June 30
Best Time to Visit
- November - February: Pleasant weather, good sightings
- March - May: Best tiger sightings (animals come to water)
- June: Hot but still open
- July - September: Monsoon closure (only Jhirna open)
- October: Park reopens, fresh greenery
How to Book Safari
- Visit official website: corbettonline.uk.gov.in
- Create account with valid ID proof
- Select zone, date, and safari timing (morning/evening)
- Pay online via debit card/net banking
- Download permit and carry original ID
Safari Timings
| Season | Morning | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Nov - Feb | 6:30 AM - 10:00 AM | 2:00 PM - 5:30 PM |
| Mar - Jun | 5:30 AM - 9:30 AM | 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM |
Getting There from Bareilly
- Distance: 120 km to Ramnagar
- Time: 3 hours by car
- Route: Bareilly → Kichha → Rudrapur → Ramnagar
- Tip: Start early for morning safari
Book Corbett Taxi
Comfortable taxi from Bareilly to Jim Corbett. We can help plan your complete safari trip.
Call +91 8077230221Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Book Dhikala 45 days in advance for best experience
- Wear neutral colors (green, brown, khaki)
- Carry binoculars and camera with zoom lens
- Maintain silence during safari
- Don't stand up in the jeep
- Listen to your guide's instructions
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Jim Corbett from Bareilly?
Jim Corbett National Park (Ramnagar gate) is approximately 120 km from Bareilly. The journey takes around 3 hours by taxi.
Which is the best zone for tiger sighting in Corbett?
Dhikala zone has the highest tiger sighting probability, followed by Bijrani and Jhirna. Dhikala requires advance booking due to limited permits.
Can I book same-day safari at Jim Corbett?
Same-day booking is possible only for Jhirna, Sitabani, and sometimes Bijrani zones if permits are available. Dhikala requires booking 45 days in advance.
What is included in Corbett safari cost?
Safari cost includes park entry fee, jeep charges, and guide fee. The total varies by zone — Dhikala is most expensive, Jhirna is most affordable.