Dhikala Forest Rest House: The Ultimate Stay Inside Jim Corbett National Park

Dhikala Forest Rest House: The Wild Soul of Corbett | Atulyam

Dhikala Forest Rest House (FRH) stands as the most iconic and coveted stay within Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand. Nestled deep inside the reserve, approximately 31 km from Dhangari Gate, Dhikala offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of the wilderness—encircled by the park’s rich and renowned wildlife.

Whether you're traveling solo, capturing wildlife through your lens, or on a family adventure—Dhikala promises an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you've left.

Summary:

• Learn how to reach Dhikala FRH—Corbett’s most iconic forest rest house
• Ideal jungle stay for wildlife lovers, photographers, and birders
• Located deep inside the Corbett Tiger Reserve’s core zone
• Offers best-in-class tiger, elephant, and bird sightings
• Rustic yet unforgettable stay experience run by Uttarakhand Forest Department

🛣️ How to Reach Dhikala Forest Rest House

Getting to Dhikala FRH requires advance planning, as it's located deep within the core zone of Jim Corbett National Park, and only registered safari vehicles are allowed to enter. Here's a practical guide:

Mode Details:

• By Air Pantnagar Airport (140 km) is the closest. Taxis available.
• By Rail Ramnagar Railway Station (32 km from park gate). Well-connected from Delhi, Moradabad, and Lucknow.

• By Road From Delhi (260 km), drive or take a cab/bus to Dhangarhi Gate. Must report on time for entry to FRH.

   

  Inside Corbett Private vehicles aren’t allowed beyond the gate. Only jeeps registered with the forest department can take you to Dhikala. Jeep booking is mandatory with your stay permit.

👉 Entry to Dhikala is only allowed via Dhangarhi Gate, and all visitors must report here with valid permits.

Why Dhikala is a Must-Visit in Uttarakhand

1. Core Zone Advantage

Dhikala offers the highest chances of tiger sightings in Corbett. It's located at the intersection of grassland, riverine, and dense forest habitats, which attracts elephants, deer, and birds throughout the year.

2. Colonial-Era Jungle Stay

Originally built in the British era, Dhikala FRH offers a charming, vintage forest stay. It’s not luxurious, but deeply immersive. Imagine sleeping with the sounds of cicadas, owls, and roaring tigers echoing in the distance.

3. Ideal for Wildlife Photography

From the famous Chaurs (grasslands) to the Ramganga River basin, Dhikala is a paradise for wildlife photographers and nature documentarians.

🛏️ Accommodation & Booking Guide

Room Type Description Capacity Tariff (INR/Night)

• Old FRH Rooms Heritage rooms with basic comforts 2         ₹2,500–₹3,000
• Annexe Block Budget rooms, shared complex 2                     ₹1,500–₹2,000
• Hutments & Cabins Standalone units, more privacy 2–3      ₹2,000–₹2,800

🐾 Things to Do in Dhikala

• Canter Safari (if you’re not staying inside)
• Morning & Evening Jeep Safaris with registered naturalists
• Dhikala Watchtower – best for photography and sunset viewing
• Wildlife Spotting: Tigers, elephants, gharials, deer, otters, and more
• Birdwatching: Over 500 species including vultures, kingfishers, hornbills, and raptors

📅 Best Time to Visit

Season Months Highlights

• Winter       -      Nov    –      Feb Best for clear sightings, tiger activity
• Summer    -      Mar    –    June Elephant herds, migratory birds
• Monsoon  -      Jul       –    Oct Dhikala remains closed

⚠️ Important Travel Tips

• No mobile networks; carry a power bank and flashlight
• No plastic is allowed; respect Corbett’s zero-plastic policy
• Pack light but include warm clothing (even in summer nights)
• Jeep safaris must be pre-booked; no walk-ins allowed

📍 Learn More About Uttarakhand’s Eco-Tourism, Wildlife at

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