Ramnagar: The Dhikala Zone of Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, one of India’s most famous wildlife destinations, will close from June 15 due to the onset of monsoon, marking the end of the peak tourist season.
The Bijrani Zone will also shut down from June 30, with night stay facilities suspended across all tourist zones until November 15.
Monsoon safety measures lead to temporary closure
The Corbett administration enforces this annual closure to ensure tourist safety, as heavy rains during monsoon cause rivers to overflow, making unpaved roads slippery and dangerous. The Dhikala Zone, known for its dense tiger population, will remain closed until mid-November, while Bijrani Zone will reopen on October 15.
Tourists can still visit select zones
Despite the closure of Dhikala and Bijrani, visitors can still enjoy jungle safaris in Jhirna, Dhela, and Garjia zones, which remain open year-round. Along with safari restrictions, night stay facilities in Dhikala, Garjia, Bijrani, Dhela, Jhirna, Pakharo, and Sona Nadi zones will also be halted. The forest lodges, which include 30 rooms and 12 dormitories in Dhikala, will resume operations on November 15.
Tourism sees a surge before closure
Despite the seasonal shutdown, tourism in Corbett Park has flourished, with over 1 lakh visitors enjoying day safaris and night stays in April, May, and early June. Amit Gwasakoti, Park Warden, confirmed that tourist numbers have increased by 6,000 compared to last year.
Why Corbett Park closes during monsoon
Jim Corbett National Park, one of India’s oldest tiger reserves, faces significant risks during monsoon, including waterlogging, mudslides, and fast-flowing rivers. The administration closes major zones to prevent accidents, ensuring the safety of tourists and wildlife.
Dhikala Zone: A wildlife enthusiast’s paradise
Known as the “nursery of tigers”, Dhikala Zone is famous for its vast grasslands and Ramganga River, which create an ideal habitat for big cats. Dr. Saket Badola, Director of Corbett Tiger Reserve, highlights that Dhikala’s ecosystem supports rich biodiversity, making it a top choice for wildlife lovers.
Booking details for future visits
Tourists planning to visit Corbett after November 15 can book safaris and accommodations through the official government website. As monsoon sets in, Corbett Park prepares for its seasonal break, ensuring wildlife conservation and visitor safety, while tourists eagerly await its reopening in November.
