Canter Safari is a widely popular safari experience in Jim Corbett National Park. This safari involves a vehicle designed to accommodate up to 16 tourists simultaneously, making it an ideal choice for large family gatherings, friends, and corporate groups. The Dhikala Zone within Jim Corbett National Park is particularly renowned for its memorable Canter safari experiences.
Visitors have the opportunity to conveniently book online for Canter Safari in the Dhikala zone of Corbett National Park. It’s important to note that all procedures related to Canter Safari Booking at Corbett are meticulously overseen by the forest officials in accordance with the guidelines set by India’s forest department. Please be aware that we do not have control over the safari zone, safari driver, and the naturalist guide, as these aspects are beyond our influence.
The allocation of safari zones is exclusively determined by the forest officials. While all zones boast a robust population of tigers, wildlife sightings are generally reported at a similar frequency across these areas. An automated computerized system manages these aspects to ensure an equitable distribution of safari vehicles in their respective zones.
An extra highlight is the standard for a Dhikala trip, the innermost region of Corbett National Park. The park administration organizes Canter Safaris in two shifts: one at 0600 hrs. during sunrise and another in the afternoon at 1200 hrs. Each safari is approximately 5 hours long, providing ample time to relish the experience. This Canter Safari serves as the sole opportunity for visitors without reservations at any FRH within the Dhikala zone to explore the Dhikala Forest, even if they are lodging outside the park in a resort.
The Dhikala Canter Safari in Corbett stands out as the optimal means to delve into the Dhikala forest, especially when your accommodation is situated outside the Corbett Tiger Reserve. Traveling by gypsy is prohibited in the Dhikala zone during the daytime, making the canter an ideal choice. The canter accommodates 18 passengers and embarks on journeys from Ramnagar in both the morning and afternoon.
The morning canter to Dhikala returns to the base in the afternoon, while the afternoon canter concludes its trip in the evening. These excursions, known as Ramganga conducted tours, are officially sanctioned by the Corbett Tiger Reserve. The Dhikala region within Corbett National Park is renowned for offering an exceptional wildlife-watching experience in its natural habitat.
The vast expanses of grasslands, referred to as “Chaurs,” are a key attraction in this part of the park. The meandering Ramganga River enhances the scenic beauty and serves as a vital water source for the area’s wildlife. The reservoir is integral to the largest man-made lake, supplying water for the Kalagarh Hydroelectricity project.
Visitors to Dhikala have the unique opportunity to engage in wildlife viewing through Elephant rides, complemented by a network of observation towers strategically positioned at the forest’s edge. These towers are accessible via 4 Wheel Drive Jeeps. While the accommodations at Dhikala Forest Lodge may be considered basic, recent enhancements have significantly improved their facilities. Nestled deep within the heart of the forest, the lodge provides a unique vantage point from the verandah of your room for observing wildlife.
The rooms at Dhikala have undergone renovations, although they maintain a basic standard compared to conventional accommodations. It’s important to note that in addition to the aforementioned safari options, two canter safaris with 16 seats each are permitted specifically in the Dhikala tourism zone. It is essential to be aware that the Wildlife Warden or the designated authority may cancel your permit based on valid and documented reasons.
Formalities which you need to do?
To access the core area of the Jim Corbett National Park, official permission is mandatory due to its designation as a restricted and protected zone. The government issues two types of permits for entry into any safari zone within the park. Day visit permits (for jeep/canter safari) and permits for overnight stays within the Government forest lodges. Indian nationals and foreigners alike require day visit permits to enter any tourism zone in Corbett National Park. Accommodations within the park are available with a night stay permit, issued by the relevant government authorities.
ID Proof: Acceptable forms of ID proof include DL Number, PAN Card Number, Voter ID, Passport Number (for foreigners), etc. Travelers must carry the same ID proof submitted in this form when visiting Corbett National Park.
Canter Details: The Canter will be stationed at a common point (Corbett Reception, Ramnagar, or Dhangari Gate, Corbett). Each traveler is responsible for reaching the Canter independently. Pick-up and drop-off points for the safari are located in Ramnagar city, but arrangements can be made from any Hotel/Resort at an additional cost, dependent on its location.
Safari Charges: Safari charges are non-refundable once the permit is booked and confirmed. It’s important to note and adhere to this policy.
For groups of up to six individuals, the option to choose Jeep Safari in Corbett is available for an enhanced wildlife exploration experience.
What you need to submit for Advance booking of canter safari?
To initiate a booking request, kindly furnish the following details:
Visitor Information: Full name, age, and gender of each visitor, matching the details on their identity cards. Advance booking amount along with the provided information.
Preferred Traveling Details: Desired travel date and preferred safari timing (Morning/Afternoon).
Identification Details: Specific ID card number (Voter ID, Aadhar No, Driving License No, etc.).
Advance Payment: Entry fee paid in advance for the safari.
Important Notes:
- E-permits are non-refundable once booked and confirmed.
- Ensure to carry the same ID card submitted during online booking.
- Please notify us at least 30 days in advance for Indian nationals.
- Foreign nationals can request for booking 90 days in advance.
- It is necessary to provide passport details when making reservations for international tourists.
Permit Issuance: Safari permits are allocated based on availability and are granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Your cooperation in providing accurate information is appreciated, and adherence to these guidelines will facilitate a smooth booking process.
Essential Information for Canter Safari at Jim Corbett
To make the most of your Canter Safari experience at Jim Corbett, here are some key details you should know.
- Booking Details: Provide accurate details for all visitors, including full names, ages, and identification information.
- Travel Preferences: Specify your preferred travel date and choose between morning or afternoon safari timing.
- Identification Requirements: Have specific identification details on hand, such as Voter ID, Aadhar No, or Driving License No.
- Advance Payment: Pay the required entry fee in advance for the safari.
- E-Permit Reminder: Keep in mind that E-permits are non-refundable once booked and confirmed.
- ID Card During Visit: Carry the same ID card submitted during the online booking when visiting Corbett National Park.
- Advance Notification: Indian nationals are advised to notify at least 30 days in advance.
- Foreign Tourist Reservation: Passport details are mandatory for making reservations for foreign tourists.
- Permit Allocation: Safari permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability.
- Cooperation Request: Your cooperation in providing accurate information will ensure a smooth and enjoyable Canter Safari experience.
Timings and Rates of Canter Safari in Jim Corbett:
Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Evening Safari: 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Corbett Canter Safari Pricing:
Indian Tourists: ₹1500+18% GST/ per person (One Canter accommodates 16 seats)
Foreign Tourists: ₹3000+18% GST per person (One Canter accommodates 16 seats)
Booking Process for Canter Safari in Jim Corbett:
The Canter safari can be conveniently booked online through the official website of Jim Corbett National Park at https://corbettgov.org/pricing
After a government-imposed prohibition for several years, Elephant Safaris in Jim Corbett are now officially open for tourists. Those seeking the unique experience of an Elephant Safari are invited to visit Corbett Park.
Important Note:
Please be aware that all safari booking procedures are meticulously managed by the forest officials in adherence to the guidelines of the Forest Department under the Government of India.
If you encounter any challenges while booking your Canter safari online, feel free to give us a call. We are here to assist and can handle the booking process for the Canter safari on your behalf, subject to availability.
My Canter Safari Experience in Dhikala Zone, Jim Corbett – Affordable, Raw & Rewarding
They say spotting a tiger is pure luck but for us, it felt like destiny.
On our recent trip to Jim Corbett National Park, we opted for the Canter Safari in Dhikala Zone, and honestly, it was one of the best decisions we made. At just ₹1,770, this 3-4 hour safari gave us everything we could’ve hoped for—two tiger sightings, a close look at a tusker elephant, jackals, crocodiles, and plenty of deer and monkeys roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Let’s be honest tiger sighting is never guaranteed, no matter how much money you spend or where you stay. The forest spans over 1,600 sq. km, and the tiger population is limited. People spend huge amounts booking Forest Rest Houses (FRHs) like the one in Dhikala, shelling out on permits, gypsy rentals, guides, and taxes—only to sometimes return without even a paw print to show. And getting a booking at Dhikala FRH? Practically a lottery! You have to try 45 days in advance, right at the crack of dawn, and even then it sells out within seconds.
We skipped that drama and simply booked the Canter Safari the only option available to explore the Dhikala Zone if you’re not staying inside the FRH. And honestly, it was an absolute win.
The safari is conducted in an open bus (called a canter), and while it may not be as private as a gypsy, it still drives deep into the core zone, where wildlife sightings are rich and raw. The ride through the dense forest is thrilling, and the vast openness gives you a fair chance of spotting the big cat if luck is on your side.
The canter stops at the Dhikala canteen, where you can buy basic snacks like Maggi (₹50) or opt for a full lunch meal (₹400). I’d recommend carrying some light snacks and water with you, especially during summer or longer rides.
My Recommendations:
- If you’re on a budget and want to explore Dhikala, Canter Safari is the best and only choice without FRH stay.
- Tiger sighting is purely luck don’t fall for the hype around exclusive stays or overpriced gypsy rides.
- Book your safari in advance Dhikala is the most sought-after zone in Jim Corbett.
- Don’t expect luxury expect adventure. It’s a shared ride but worth every moment if you love the wild.
- Most importantly, book your Canter Safari through the official website of Jim Corbett National Park (https://corbettgov.org/) to avoid paying extra charges through third-party agents.
Final Verdict:
Canter Safari in Dhikala is a fantastic, affordable way to explore one of the best tiger zones in India. Whether or not you spot the tiger, the experience of being in the heart of Corbett’s wilderness is unmatched. And if destiny aligns like it did for us, you’ll come back with roaring memories.
