Dhikala FRH
Overview of Dhikala Forest Lodge
Dhikala Forest Lodge, located at the heart of Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, is an extraordinary and unique accommodation that promises an immersive wildlife experience. It is often said that a wildlife trip in Uttarakhand is incomplete without staying at this lodge. Surrounded by lush forests and abundant wildlife, Dhikala offers visitors a serene retreat away from the noise and pollution of city life. With a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, elephants, leopards, and cheetahs, it is a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
The Lodge is especially notable for its unique position in the Corbett Tiger Reserve, giving guests the rare privilege to stay in the middle of a tiger reserve and experience the beauty of the jungle up close. While staying here might feel daunting due to its remote location and the presence of wild animals, it is an unforgettable and thrilling experience.
Accommodation and Booking Details
The Dhikala Forest Lodge is one of the few places in Corbett National Park that offers overnight accommodation in the core area. To book a stay, visitors from India and the SAARC countries need to make a reservation 46 days in advance, while international visitors are required to book 91 days in advance. The lodge is spread across six different wings, each offering a comfortable and rustic stay amidst nature.
In addition to the Dhikala Lodge, accommodation options are available at Bijrani, Gairal, Jhirna, and Kanda Forest Rest Houses, and the government is working on expanding these facilities with additional annexes and dormitories.
The lodge is securely surrounded by solar-powered electric fences to ensure safety, as it is located in a dense wildlife zone.
Dhikala Forest Lodge Accommodation
Situated within the dense forests of the Corbett National Park, the Dhikala Forest Lodge offers a unique experience of staying in one of the oldest tiger reserves in the world. The lodge is positioned near the Patli Dun Valley, offering visitors breathtaking views of the valley and the nearby Kanda Ridge. The area is home to numerous streams of the Ramganga River, which adds to the scenic beauty and supports the local wildlife.
The lodge consists of 32 rooms and two dormitories, with each room featuring its own bathroom equipped with hot and cold water. Despite being in the heart of the forest, the accommodation is equipped with modern amenities like electricity and clean, comfortable beds. However, for safety reasons, it is surrounded by electric fencing to keep wild animals out.
Activities at Dhikala Forest Lodge
The Dhikala zone is open to tourists from November 15th to June 15th each year. During the monsoon season (June to November), the area is unsafe due to high water levels in river streams, making it difficult to navigate. To visit Dhikala, tourists must obtain a permit and enter through the Dhangadhi gate. A gypsy safari with a guide is mandatory to explore the park.
The Dhikala zone is a restricted area, so it is essential to book rooms, safaris, and guides well in advance. The entry to Dhikala is through the Dhela Gate, about 20 km from the nearest town, Ramnagar. The journey to Dhikala is a scenic adventure, passing through various other forest lodges such as Gairal, Sarapduli, and Sultan.
Packages and Itinerary
- 1 Night Package (2 Days)
- 2 Night Package (3 Days)
- 3 Night Package (4 Days)
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival at Ramnagar
- Arrive at Ramnagar Railway Station and transfer to the Dhikala Forest Lodge.
- Check-in and relax before embarking on a 3-hour forest safari to explore the wildlife.
- Return to the lodge for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Explore Dhikala Forest
- Start the day with a cup of coffee and prepare for a jungle safari to experience the forest’s wildlife.
- Visit the Dhikala tourism zone, where the Ramganga River weaves through the valley. Enjoy panoramic views and observe wildlife from the vantage points.
- Return to the lodge and check-out.
- Head back to Delhi, concluding the tour.
When to Visit Dhikala Forest Lodge
The best time to visit Dhikala is between November 15th and June 15th, as the park is closed during the monsoon season. Make sure to book accommodations and safari rides well in advance, as Dhikala is a popular spot among wildlife lovers, and securing a spot without prior booking is very difficult.
Staying at Dhikala Forest Lodge offers an unparalleled experience in the heart of one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India, providing guests with the chance to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories.