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Bijrani Zone – The Most Scenic Safari in Jim Corbett

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Jim Corbett’s Wildest Heart

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The Bijrani Zone in Jim Corbett National Park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife diversity. Located near Ramnagar, this zone features dense sal forests, open grasslands, and winding jungle trails perfect for thrilling Jeep safaris. Tourists often spot tigers, elephants, deer, and various bird species here. Known for its beautiful terrain and excellent tiger sightings, Bijrani offers an unforgettable wildlife experience, making it one of the most popular zones in Corbett.

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It's highly recommended to book well in advance, especially the safari permits, which open slots up to 45 days prior. The Official Corbett Tiger Reserve website is the only source to get a safari permit. You'll need to provide ID details for all visitors. Be aware that permits are generally non-refundable. Corbett Waala also facilitate Corbett Safari bookings, often including permit, jeep, and a guide. Remember to carry your original ID!

You can only book a permit through the official website, rest other essentials like jeep and guide need to book manually. You can simply ask us to do all the hard work for you.




Corbett Jungle Safari Booking – A Complete Guide

Jim Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand, is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in India. Known as the country’s first national park and the birthplace of Project Tiger, it attracts thousands of wildlife lovers every year. The biggest highlight of visiting Corbett is undoubtedly the jungle safari, which allows visitors to explore the dense forests, riverbeds, and grasslands while spotting tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and hundreds of bird species.

If you are planning a Corbett jungle safari, here’s everything you need to know about the types of safaris, different zones, the best time to visit, useful tips, and answers to the most asked questions.




Bijrani Zone – The Gateway to Wilderness at Jim Corbett National Park

Among the six major zones of Jim Corbett National Park, the Bijrani Zone holds a special place in the hearts of wildlife enthusiasts. Famous for its breathtaking landscape, easy accessibility, and rich wildlife sightings — especially the Royal Bengal Tiger — Bijrani is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. Located just a few kilometers from Ramnagar, the main entry town of Corbett, Bijrani beautifully blends adventure, serenity, and the untamed spirit of the forest.

If Dhikala is the heart of Corbett, then Bijrani is its welcoming face — inviting visitors to explore the mystery and magic of the jungle.



An Introduction to Bijrani Zone

The Bijrani Zone lies on the eastern side of Jim Corbett National Park and is one of the most popular safari regions of the reserve. It shares similar terrain to the Dhikala zone but is comparatively drier and open, making wildlife spotting easier. The zone’s mixture of dense Sal forests, wide grasslands (Chaurs), river streams, and hilly terrain creates a perfect habitat for tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species.

Historically, Bijrani was once used by the British for hunting expeditions due to its abundance of wildlife. Today, it stands as a symbol of successful wildlife conservation, attracting thousands of visitors each season who come to experience the wild in its purest form.

The entry gate to Bijrani is called Amdanda Gate, located around 2 km from Ramnagar town. Beyond this gate lies an enchanting world of forests, wildlife, and raw beauty that makes Bijrani a must-visit zone in Corbett.



The Natural Beauty of Bijrani

Bijrani’s landscape is a visual treat. The moment you enter through Amdanda Gate, you’re welcomed by dense Sal and deciduous forests that soon open into vast grasslands where deer graze and elephants roam. Seasonal rivers like the Kosi and Mandal meander through the region, adding sparkle and life to the terrain.

The Bijrani Forest Rest House, located inside the zone, sits amidst lush greenery and offers mesmerizing views of the jungle. Early mornings here are magical — the golden rays of sunlight filtering through tall trees, the symphony of birds, and the faint rustle of leaves announcing the forest’s awakening.

Photographers often call Bijrani a “dream zone” because of its natural light, open meadows, and frequent animal activity. The zone’s scenic diversity ensures every turn of the track brings a new, picture-perfect scene.



Wildlife in Bijrani Zone

When it comes to wildlife density, Bijrani ranks among the richest zones in Corbett. The terrain’s openness and grasslands make it easier to spot animals compared to other zones.

Key species found in Bijrani include:

Bijrani is also a paradise for birdwatchers. Over 500 species of birds can be found here, such as Crested Serpent Eagles, Jungle Fowls, Woodpeckers, Parakeets, Kingfishers, and Hornbills. During winters, migratory birds arrive in flocks, transforming the zone into a lively avian sanctuary.



Bijrani Forest Rest House – A Night in the Wild

The Bijrani Forest Rest House (FRH) offers one of the most authentic jungle stays inside Corbett. Managed by the Corbett Tiger Reserve Forest Department, the rest house was originally built during the British era and continues to retain its rustic charm.

Staying overnight inside Bijrani is a rare privilege — one can hear tigers calling at night, elephants trumpeting in the distance, and the forest alive under the starlit sky. The property offers basic yet clean rooms and dormitories, canteen facilities, and solar-powered lighting.

The location of the rest house, near the forest’s core, gives visitors a chance to truly live amidst wildlife — away from phone networks and city chaos. It’s not luxury in the traditional sense, but the experience of being surrounded by raw nature is priceless.

Note: Only guests with confirmed forest rest house bookings are allowed to stay overnight within the Bijrani Zone.



Safari Experience in Bijrani Zone

Bijrani Zone offers two types of safaris for visitors — Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari (when available).

  1. Jeep Safari
    The Jeep Safari is the most popular way to explore Bijrani. Small open-top 4x4 vehicles carry up to six passengers and traverse through designated tracks that pass through forests, meadows, and water streams.
    • Duration: Around 3 hours
    • Timings: Two slots daily — morning and afternoon
    • Starting Point: Amdanda Gate, Ramnagar

  2. Each jeep is accompanied by a licensed guide who helps interpret animal behavior, pugmarks, and jungle sounds — making the experience both educational and thrilling. Jeep safaris are the best way to witness the diverse wildlife of Bijrani and capture stunning photographs.

  3. Elephant Safari
    Earlier, Bijrani offered limited elephant safaris for short jungle rides, giving visitors a unique vantage point to explore the wilderness. Currently, these are regulated and occasionally allowed for guests staying within the forest rest house, subject to park authority rules.


Best Time to Visit Bijrani Zone

The Bijrani Zone remains open from mid-October to mid-June every year. Each season brings its own charm and wildlife activity:



How to Reach Bijrani Zone

From Ramnagar, tourists must report to the Amdanda Gate Reception at least 30 minutes before safari timing with valid permits and ID proofs.



Permits and Regulations

  1. Safari and night stay bookings must be made through the official Corbett Tiger Reserve website or authorized tour operators.
  2. Limited vehicles are allowed in each shift to minimize environmental impact.
  3. Visitors must follow all forest rules — no littering, no feeding animals, and no stepping out of vehicles.
  4. Loud noises and bright lights are prohibited to protect the natural environment.


Conclusion:
The Bijrani Zone of Jim Corbett National Park is a true representation of India’s wild beauty — a place where nature reigns supreme and every trail tells a story. Its accessibility from Ramnagar, stunning forest scenery, and diverse wildlife make it one of the most sought-after zones for safaris.
Whether you choose to explore it on a morning jeep ride or stay overnight in the historic rest house, Bijrani promises an experience that touches the soul. It’s more than just a safari zone — it’s a journey into the heart of the wild, where adventure meets serenity and nature reveals its untamed grace.

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Related FAQs

If spotting a tiger is your priority, the Dhikala Zone and Bijrani Zone are considered the best choices. Dhikala, being the largest zone with vast grasslands and riverbeds, offers a higher prey density, making tiger sightings more frequent, but can be visited only through Canter Safaris. Bijrani/Jhirna/Dhela etc, on the other hand, is popular for its sal forests and open meadows where tigers are often spotted on jeep trails. While Jhirna and Dhela also report sightings, your chances increase significantly in Dhikala and Bijrani. Still, remember that tigers are elusive, and no safari can guarantee a sighting—it’s all about patience and luck.
Yes, safari bookings in Jim Corbett are done exclusively online through the official Uttarakhand Forest Department website or authorized tour operators. Booking opens 45 days in advance for Indian nationals and 90 days in advance for foreign travelers. Since permits are limited and highly demanded (especially for Dhikala and Bijrani), it’s best to secure your booking as early as possible. You’ll need valid ID details at the time of booking, and the same ID must be carried in original during the safari.
Each jeep safari allows a maximum of 6 passengers along with one driver and one mandatory naturalist/guide. This small group size makes the experience more personal and less disturbing to wildlife. If you are a couple or small family, you may either share the jeep with others or book the entire jeep for a private safari at an additional cost. Children are also allowed, but parents must ensure they remain seated and quiet during the safari.
Absolutely! The canter safari is the only option for day visitors to explore the iconic Dhikala Zone if they don’t have an overnight stay permit inside. The canter is an open 16–20 seater vehicle that runs in fixed shifts (morning and afternoon). While it doesn’t provide the privacy of a jeep, it makes up for it with a panoramic view, better safety, and group affordability. Since Dhikala is famous for its tiger sightings, elephants, gharials, and mesmerizing landscapes, the canter safari is highly recommended.
Yes, jungle safaris in Corbett are safe for children and elderly visitors as long as basic guidelines are followed. The vehicles are open but sturdy, and drivers are experienced in navigating forest trails. However, young children should be monitored to ensure they remain quiet, as sudden noises may disturb wildlife. Elderly travelers should choose morning safaris in winter carefully, as it can get quite cold; carrying warm clothing and a blanket is advised.
No safari in Corbett—or anywhere in the world—can guarantee a tiger sighting. Tigers are territorial and elusive animals, and sightings depend on luck, timing, and patience. However, zones like Dhikala, Bijrani, and sometimes Dhela offer relatively better chances. Even if you don’t spot a tiger, you will encounter a wide variety of wildlife such as elephants, deer, langurs, reptiles, and over 600 species of birds. The overall jungle experience is rewarding in itself.
The morning safari (starting at sunrise) is considered the best for wildlife enthusiasts because predators like tigers and leopards are more active in cooler hours. Many animals also visit waterholes early in the day. Evening safaris (around sunset) are equally enjoyable for birdwatching, spotting elephants, and experiencing the golden light filtering through the forest. During summer, mornings are preferred for comfort, while in winter, afternoons are slightly warmer and pleasant.
The cost of a Corbett safari depends on the type and zone. A jeep safari typically ranges between ₹6,500 – ₹8,000 per jeep (on a private basis for upto 6 pax in one jeep). A canter safari costs around ₹2,000 per person. If you choose to stay overnight inside the forest rest houses (especially in Dhikala), there are additional charges for accommodation, entry fees, and meals. Prices may vary slightly based on the season, demand, and booking channel.
Night safaris are strictly prohibited in the core zones of Jim Corbett for safety and conservation reasons. However, in the Sitabani Buffer Zone, visitors can enjoy walking trails and temple visits during the day, making it the only zone where a walking safari is possible. For those wanting a “night jungle experience,” staying overnight at forest lodges inside Dhikala or Bijrani is the closest option, where you can hear nocturnal animals and jungle sounds after dark.
During the monsoon (July to September), most safari zones, including Bijrani and Dhikala, remain closed due to heavy rains, slippery roads, and safety reasons. However, the Jhirna Zone and Dhela Zone remain open year-round. These zones are great for birdwatchers and those who want to explore Corbett during the off-season with fewer crowds and lower accommodation costs. While tiger sightings are less frequent in monsoon, the lush greenery and fresh landscapes provide a magical experience.



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