Dhikala is one of the biggest grasslands in Asia and the largest and most beautiful zone of Corbett national park with most of the safari routes on the side of Ramganga River. The Dhikala zone attracts thousands of wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world who come here to experience the exotic flora and fauna of the region. As you enter the Dhikala zone, you get to see the breathtaking view of the magnificent jungle landscape dotted with dense Sal forests, the valley around Ramganga River and several small rivulets adjoining it. In this zone, you can easily spot wild animals like Elephants, Hyena, Fox, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Sambhar, Barasinga, and even Tigers if you are lucky.
Dhikala Forest Lodge
Dhikala Forest Lodge is a popular guest house complex in the serene environs of Jim Corbett Park. Located right in the middle of the core area of Corbett National Park, the lodge is managed and run by the forest officials of the Corbett reserve. The Dhikala Area prohibits the entry of the private vehicles unless you have booked yourself for the Dhikala Forest Lodge. This restriction has been imposed to minimize the disturbance caused by the unabated traffic movements to the animals.
Accommodation facilities at Dhikala Forest Lodge
Dhikala Forest Lodge is an ideal accommodation in Corbett’s wilderness to enjoy the natural surroundings and for the spotting of exotic birds and animals in the area. Do not expect luxury ambiance inside the lodge as it offers basic comforts and amenities for a pleasant stay. To stay at night in the Dhikala Forest Lodge, the Indian visitors have to book the accommodation in the lodge 46 days in advance and the overseas visitors have to book the accommodation 91 days in advance.
The six different wings of the Dhikala Forest Lodge are categorized as:
- Old Forest Rest House (05 Rooms)
- Dhikala Annexes (07 Rooms)
- Hutments (06 Rooms)
- Cabins (06 Rooms)
- New Forest Rest House (04 Rooms)
- Old Range Quarters (04 Rooms)
The government has increased the accommodation at the Dhikala Forest Lodge in recent years by introducing additional annexes and dormitories. The lodge has attached toilet bathrooms, coolers, and solar-powered hot running water that is provided in every room. In dormitories, guests have to share common toilets/bathrooms. There is a canteen managed by KumaonMandalVikas Nigam (KMVN) in the Dhikala campus that provides buffet food service to the guests. Other facilities offered at the Dhikala Forest Lodge include housekeeping, campfire during the stay at the lodge, and nature walks under the guidance of experienced naturalists.
Wildlife Safari during the stay at the Dhikala Forest Lodge
During your stay at the Dhikala Forest Lodge, you can go for a three hour morning wildlife safari across the unrivaled wilderness area of the zone and enjoy the amazing wildlife sightings. The exotic jungle safari takes you through the rugged terrain of the Corbett National Park. This exclusive safari zone offers panoramic views of the foothills and the lush green valley and offers you an opportunity to discover the most fascinating wildlife territory on Earth. Dhikala safari online booking in advance is recommended for the wildlife safari enthusiasts as there is a big rush for jungle safaris during the peak season.
Best Time to stay at the Dhikala Forest Lodge
Dhikala forest zone opens from 15th October to 15th June every year and shuts down during monsoon season which comprises July, August, and September months. It is recommended to book Dhikala Forest Lodge well in advance with a Corbett authorized tour operator to avoid last-minute disappointment. The availability of rooms is confirmed to the guests 45 days before the date of arrival.