How To Reach - Dhikala

Dhikala, located deep inside the Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand, is one of the most exclusive and scenic zones of Jim Corbett National Park. Reaching Dhikala requires both planning and proper permits, as it lies within the core zone and is accessible only through registered vehicles and guided tours. This section will guide you through all the possible ways to reach Dhikala from major cities and nearby transport hubs.

By Air

The nearest airport to Dhikala is Pantnagar Airport, located about 110 kilometers from Ramnagar. Pantnagar is a domestic airport with limited connectivity, mainly from Delhi. From the airport, taxis are available to reach Ramnagar, the main gateway to Corbett. For international travelers, Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi) is the nearest major airport. From Delhi, one can hire a private cab or take a train to Ramnagar.

By Train

The closest railway station to Dhikala is Ramnagar Railway Station, which is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Moradabad, Lucknow, and Varanasi. Several express and passenger trains run daily and weekly to Ramnagar. Upon arrival, travelers must head to Dhangarhi Gate, the official entry point to the Dhikala Zone, located around 18 kilometers from Ramnagar. Entry into Dhikala from the gate is only allowed via pre-booked gypsy vehicles authorized by the forest department.

By Road

Dhikala can be accessed by road via Ramnagar, which is well connected by buses and taxis from major cities in North India. From Delhi, the distance is around 260 kilometers and takes approximately 5 to 6 hours via Haldwani. Once in Ramnagar, visitors must report at Dhangarhi Gate, and from there, travel to Dhikala is only permitted in registered jeeps with proper permits. The road inside the forest from Dhangarhi to Dhikala is 32 kilometers long and offers scenic views of the jungle, riverbeds, and terrain.

Distance from Major Cities

Delhi to Dhikala: Approx. 260 km (via Ramnagar)
Ramnagar to Dhangarhi Gate: Approx. 18 km
Dhangarhi Gate to Dhikala FRH: Approx. 32 km (inside the forest)
Haldwani to Ramnagar: Approx. 55 km
Nainital to Ramnagar: Approx. 65 km

Important Travel Tips

- Entry to Dhikala is strictly regulated. Only registered gypsies and tourists with valid permits and FRH bookings are allowed.
- Visitors are not allowed to enter Dhikala Zone after sunset.
- Book your permits and Dhikala FRH (Forest Rest House) well in advance through the official Uttarakhand Forest Department portal.
- Carry government-issued photo ID for verification at the entry gate.
- Avoid self-driving; private vehicles are not permitted inside the forest zone.
- Follow all park guidelines for safety and conservation.

Best Time to Travel to Dhikala

The Dhikala Zone remains open to tourists from mid-November to mid-June. It is closed during the monsoon due to heavy rains and poor road conditions inside the forest. The best time to visit is from December to May when the weather is ideal, and chances of wildlife sightings are high. Winter months offer cool temperatures and clearer skies, while summers offer excellent tiger spotting opportunities due to sparse vegetation.

4Nights/5Days Dhikala Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Ramnagar. Transfer to a pre-booked resort. After lunch, explore local attractions such as Garjia Temple or Corbett Museum. Overnight stay at the resort.

Day 2: Early morning drive to Dhangarhi Gate. Complete formalities and enter Dhikala Zone in a forest-authorized gypsy. Reach Dhikala FRH and check in. Afternoon jungle safari. Overnight stay inside Dhikala.

Day 3: Morning and evening jeep safaris exploring the dense sal forests, grasslands, and Ramganga riverbeds. Visit watch towers and photography points. Overnight stay at Dhikala.

Day 4: Morning safari followed by breakfast. Rest and enjoy bird watching or guided walk (if allowed). Evening safari in a different trail. Overnight stay inside the FRH.

Day 5: Early morning check out from Dhikala. Exit through Dhangarhi Gate and return to Ramnagar. Proceed for departure or onward journey.