Today, I embarked on another exciting wildlife journey into the Jim Corbett National Park, where I will be staying in the Bijrani Forest Rest house and exploring the wild jungles with an experienced naturalist, Gaurav.
After driving for a couple of hours from Delhi, we reached the Amdanda gate, also called the Bijrani zone entry gate. The safari trip starts from here, and after we got our permits checked and verified, we started on our upcoming journey. I have come to this zone many times but haven’t stayed in the Bijrani FRH before. So, this would be my first time.
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Starting the Jeep Safari to Reach Bijrani Forest Rest House
The Bijrani Jeep Safari starts with crossing a small village area, which falls on the right side as we move from the main Amdanda gate. Many people reside in this area but do not want to relocate from here despite the danger from the wild animals.
Then our Guide Gaurav, started telling us about some of the interesting facts about this Corbett Tiger reserve especially the Bijrani zone. He told us about the great variety of birds, animals and reptiles that are found in this region and how they can be identified through various types of alarm calls, sounds they make, and the movement of wildlife in these jungles.
He also told us about how this national park came into existence through the famous Individual Jim Corbett. Then, later renamed to Ramnagar National Park since the Ram Ganga River passes through this wildlife park, and the demography, the wild animals and birds depend heavily on it for their smooth survival. After the Death of Mr Jim Corbett, it was renamed to Corbett Tiger Reserve or Jim Corbett National Park, honouring their memory.
He also told us how he spotted his life’s first tiger in the Bijrani zone of Corbett National Park and the stories related to that.
Entering the Core Area of the Bijrani Zone
As we entered the main central area of the Bijrani zone, we saw that everything was dried up and no water was there. Usually, this region is filled with water during the monsoon season. From July 1st to October 15, the region is closed to visitors, usually due to the monsoon weather.
There was still some water in patches, but in the absence of this essential water stream, it became challenging for the animals out here to carry out their regular functioning.
Gaurav, our guide, told us the basis on which the regions in the Bijrani zone are usually bifurcated. He mentioned that almost 20% of the area is considered the Core Zone. As we were continuing further, me and my family were getting excited for the upcoming adventures.
A few moments later, we saw tiger pug marks too on the muddy pathway. Gaurav told us that a tiger has been active recently in this area, and those pug marks are drawing the attention of many visitors to this place.
Spotted a Male Sambar Deer Just as the Trip began
As we were moving ahead in our Bijrani Zone Safari, we came across a Male Sambar Deer. It was standing in the water stream that was flowing to our right side. It’s also often called the largest deer of Asia, and it was looking at us as if it wanted to tell us something.
It was truly a beautiful sight to look at with the sun rays coming through the trees between us and the deer. We could also hear the chirping of the birds around.
Quick fact:
The male sambar deer is often the favourite animal of the tigers for hunting in this region of the Corbett Tiger Reserve. The Sambar deer is usually found alone and not part of groups. They prefer to stay alone, and that’s a significant trait of their personality.
Bijrani is One of my Favourite Jim Corbett Zones
That’s because it has a vibrant natural beauty and landscape, which appeals to the eye. As we finally reached the Bijrani Forest Rest House, we got down, settled inside, and were ready to start the wildlife adventure in this part of the Corbett Tiger Reserve.
This will be my first time staying in Bijrani FRH. Earlier, I have stayed is Malani Forest House, and many other Private Accommodations. But this time, it was going to be a different experience altogether.
Bijrani Forest Guest House is a Historical Place in this Region. It dates back to the British era and was constructed in 1928. As I was observing all around, I saw two elephants at one corner who were basking in the sun and peacefully standing there.
A Quick Tour of the Bijrani Forest Lodge
As I entered the Bijrani FRH and started moving towards my room area, I was struck by a thought – this place is evidence of the time when hunters in this region used to come and stay here during their trips. But now, people like you and me come here to experience the wild nature in the Jim Corbett Bijrani zone.
Every room has wooden furniture which gives vintage vibes and reminds of the past, has basic amenities and attached washroom for convenience, but there is no Wi-Fi or Television available. The entire Bijrani Rest House is powered by solar energy. Also, the roof is made up of wood which makes it convenient during summers to cool down the entire building while during winters it keeps it warm.
Starting Our Jungle Safari Adventure from Bijrani Forest Rest House
We then started our Safari trip with our tour guide, Gaurav, and driver Mr. Mukesh. We were confident that, with patience and timing, we would be able to spot a tiger today.
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There is one benefit of staying in the Bijrani Rest House: you get to experience fewer crowds and a peaceful environment to explore the jungles. These jungles are so dense and green, and it’s almost very pleasant even in the afternoon. At many places, you will come across spring water patches that are essential to help maintain the ecological balance in the Bijrani Zone.
Gaurav told us that spotting a female tigress is usual in this region and started narrating the stories of a famous tigress named Sharmeeli.
He told us that she was a popular tigress in the Bijrani zone area and also gave many cubs when she was alive. Now she has passed away, and her cubs have grown up to become big tigers who live in these jungles and are often spotted during jungle safaris. They have even given birth to cubs and now stay in these jungles.
We then came across a tree that had claw marks of tigers, which usually indicated the territorial behaviour of these animals. It usually means that other animals must stay beware of these regions since they are already under the vigilance of these tigers. These claw marks are usually up to 5 to 7 feet in height, which indicates the height of the tiger when they stand-up to make these marks.
It’s Very Common To Spot a Female Tiger as Compared to a Male Tiger
One of the biggest reasons is that female tigers are less territorial and often stay limited to a small area. On the other hand, male tigers are more territorial in terms of marking their areas and guarding a bigger chunk of land to declare as their territory.
We again spotted another Sambar deer, which was staring at us from the bushes. We stopped our Jeep to get a better look at it through the binoculars. You have to stay very alert to spot these animals in the dense jungles of Bijrani Zone. If not, you can miss them most of the time.
The deer was almost 4 to 5 years old, and was looking continuously towards us. When they raise alarm calls, it gives surety that another animal, especially a tiger, is around somewhere for sure. As we decided to move a little ahead in our jeep, we saw that a barking deer was almost roaming in the open jungle area.
That’s the beauty of these forests. You never know which wild animal you could end up spotting anywhere.
We tried many things to assess the presence of tigers in the region. Also, stopped our jeep at multiple places to see if we could hear an alarm call. But to our luck, nothing. We then reached a place where we saw tiger pug marks, and after analyzing the movement, we also started moving in the same direction.
The pug marks were very fresh, and we were hoping that maybe the tiger was present somewhere near.
Then We Came Into an Open Area and Spotted Multiple Sambar Deer
As we approached an open land area of the Bijrani Zone during our jeep safari trip, we saw a vast expanse of stones everywhere. On top of that, the sun was shining bright, and it was a perfect ambiance of peacefulness.
After reaching further, we spotted a group of sambar deer. They stood far from us. There were both male and female deer. We also saw many baby sambar deer in the group and stayed there for a while to enjoy the sight.
Today, we spotted multiple sambar deer since we began our safari journey. It’s not normal or common to spot so many, and it needs a perfect balance of timing and patience.
Sambar deer is a very intelligent species of deer in the Jungles of Asia. They always stay alert to stay safe from any imminent danger in the region. The females are protective of their babies once they give birth to them to keep them safe from external dangers.
As we decided to move from that place, we saw another sambar deer who was far off from us and standing in isolation. It appeared very cute, and I was so happy seeing another one as the trip progressed. Spotting these animals is nothing short of therapeutic, and they give you a different sense of calmness and happiness.
But Suddenly, We Saw Another Fresh Pug Marks of a Tiger
As we were moving forward, we came across another fresh foot prints of tiger which indicated that she is nearby and just crossed this region. After leaving that place, we met with a forest guard, and he told us that they frequently spot tigers in this region while guarding. It’s very common for them to spot one.
As it was approaching evening, the jungle environment started changing a lot, and we heard alarm calls of a barking deer at a far, far-off distance. We again spotted a male sambar deer, and he was vigilant, keeping a check on any nearby danger.
After a while, many jeeps started coming towards us, and we started hearing strong alarm calls of the barking deer. We started looking with our binoculars, and I was able to spot the one who was making the sounds. We then decided to move forward towards a water hole after staying there for a while.
After reaching there, we halted for a few minutes in the hope that a tiger might appear there for drinking water. It’s one of the most common areas to spot a tiger.
Finally, Today’s Safari Ended, and We Returned To Bijrani Forest Lodge
As our safari came to an end, we returned to the Bijrani Rest House, and the sun was about to set. Even though we didn’t spot a tiger today and it was getting cold, we were excited for the adventure coming tomorrow, where we were scheduled to go on a morning Bijrani zone safari with our tour guide.
It was time for some hot tea, and we settled into our accommodation to enjoy the rest of the night.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bijrani Forest Rest House
How to do Bijrani Forest Rest House Booking?
To book your stay in the Bijrani Forest Lodge, you can connect with Jungle Revives Team. We will help you book your personalized itinerary and the best rooms for your vacation. That too, in the middle of the beautiful Bijrani Zone. We will ensure that you have the best stay experience at the Bijrani Guest House. Also, will provide you with all the needed support to make your trip memorable.
How does the Bijrani FRH maintain its charm consistently for decades?
The administration of this forest lodge has been consistent in maintaining its vintage charm for over so many years. That’s only through properly maintaining the property and taking care of its wooden architecture. Key factors responsible include damage from weather, insects, breakage, and more. They follow all the necessary SOPs to ensure that the forest house is in good shape and condition. Dedicated staff maintains the property.
How does the Bijrani Guest House promote sustainable tourism?
Solar Energy powers the entire property. This allows the administration to reduce the environmental impact and carbon footprint. Also, it enables them to provide a better lodging experience to the visitors.
How does the Bijrani Forest Rest House cater to first-time visitors?
It is located in the middle of the Bijrani Zone and offers proximity to the jungles. It has a lot of serenity surrounding it, the historical ambiance, and amazing natural landscapes. When you combine all of this with the guided safaris, you get a truly authentic and amazing wildlife experience.
Is the Bijrani Guest House Safe? What Precautions should I take during my stay?
Yes, it’s safe, and you must follow some of the essential precautions all the time. The Staff can tackle any unwarranted situation. The Struct safety protocols ensure that you have the best stay experience. However, you must –
- follow guidelines suggested by your guide,
- stay within designated areas,
- be alert and proactive,
- avoid making loud noises, and
- must not wander carelessly during nighttime.
Follow these, and you will have the best stay experience.
