Jim Corbett Dhikala Canter Safari is a great option for those who are either on a budget or going for day-travelling and yet want to experience the best of India’s oldest and finest wildlife national parks. There are basically two types of safari in Jim Corbett National Park: Jeep Safari and Canter Safari.
I have been visiting Jim Corbett for the last 10+ years and know the complete ins and outs of how to plan the best wildlife trip. Only the Dhikala Zone has the option of availing a canter safari as well as a Jeep Safari. All other zones have to be explored via jeep only.
This blog is going to be a deep dive into Jim Corbett Dhikala Canter Safari planning and everything you want to know about planning the perfect wildlife trip.
At Jungle Revives, we specialize in helping wildlife enthusiasts like yourself plan the perfect wildlife exploration on an affordable budget, or if you are short on time, but don’t want any compromise in the overall wildlife travelling experience. I and my team of travel consultants and planners have almost a decade of expertise in organizing wildlife travels and tours, and we are here to amplify your canter safari experience in Dhikala.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Dhikala Safari Introduction: My Personal Journey Over the Last Years
Going on both canter and jeep safaris has taught me so much about nature and wildlife in general. I have a YouTube channel also, where you can get an inside look into the wildlife trips I take across Jim Corbett and other wildlife parks, and document my experiences. Don’t forget to visit and subscribe.
During my early days of visiting this national park, I used to take lots of canter safaris since my budget was constrained and I was getting started with my passion for exploring wildlife in India. Also, I used to mostly go on day safari sessions.
But as luck would have it, things turned out good for me and I have had the privilege of also taking innumerable jeep safaris across Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, both during day sessions, and through overnight stays in Forest Rest Houses.
Another thing that I want to share with you is that getting this close to nature has made me realize its true importance and why we should get serious about saving them for future generations to come.
Dhikala Zone Overview for You
Dhikala Zone is the largest and most biodiverse zone in Jim Corbett National Park, and is full of tourists every season. As mentioned, it’s the only region that offers the option of Canter Safari, and advanced bookings must be made for that before the visit.
Wildlife viewing from Canter Safari in Dhikala is an amazing experience as it not only puts you in between the wild animals but also offers a very close interaction with them. It’s the perfect way to have a shared safari experience in jungle for budget travellers as well as day travellers.
What plants are in Jim Corbett National Park Dhikala Zone?
The vegetation in Dhikala is largely covered with tall sal trees, widespread grasslands, and the zone is closer to the Ramganga River, which acts as a major source of water and food for many wild animals. There are multiple river channels in the zone, which create numerous spots for animal gathering and wildlife spotting.
Why is Dhikala zone famous?
The Dhikala zone is the one where the greatest number of tiger sightings happen every year. Tigers are spotted in large numbers in other zones also in recent years, but still, Dhikala remains the heart of Corbett. So if you are taking a Canter Safari here, be ready for amazing tiger interactions, which you will remember for many years to come.
Open-Canter Safari Explained for First-Time Dhikala Visitors
Before I get into the details of Canter Safari, let me tell you more about it.
Canter Safari is an Open-air mini-truck/bus-based mode of exploring Wildlife in Dhikala zone for animal and bird sightings.
- It has a seating capacity of anywhere between 16-20 people.
- The seating is elevated, and it’s open from many sides to provide the visitors with a panoramic view of the jungle.
- The buses are usually diesel-powered, and economical options for those not willing to spend much on a jeep safari, or for those who are opting for a day session.
Jim Corbett Dhikala Canter Safari gives tourists a better opportunity to interact with groups of people and form a great social atmosphere. You will surely get to make new friends during your next visit.
How long is the Dhikala canter safari?
It takes up to 4 hours to explore the entire zone via this mode. The vehicles are operated by the Forest Department of Jim Corbett. You get the option of a morning and evening safari. Seats remain limited as I have mentioned earlier, and fewer than 10 canter roll out per shift to avoid overcrowding.
Our team at Jungle Revives can help you with the complete trip planning process based on your schedule and other requirements for a seamless experience.
What Time is the Canter Safari in Jim Corbett Dhikala Zone?
The operational period of the Dhikala zone is between 15 November to 15 June every year, and remains closed for the rest of the year due to the monsoon. You can avail the canter trip for the best experience of shared safari in jungle areas of Jim Corbett during this period.
During the Winter Safari Season, which is roughly from mid-November to the end of March, the morning canter safari starts at approximately 6 AM, and the afternoon session starts at approximately 12 PM.
In the summer season, which is from April to mid-June, morning canter safari starts around 5:45 AM approximately, and the afternoon session at around 12:30 PM approximately.
The canter safari duration is up to 4 hours.
Overall timings can vary by weather conditions or any guidelines released by the Forest Department of Jim Corbett. But wildlife observation from canter vehicle in Dhikala offers an unmatched experience for visitors who get to be as close to wild animals as it’s possible safely and without any harm. So be on time at the designated meetup spot to avoid causing unnecessary delays due to punctuality issues.
Get in touch with the Jungle Revives team to book the perfect slot for a canter safari in Jim Corbett Dhikala Zone today.
The Exploration Route: What to Expect on a Wildlife Safari in Dhikala
The Route of Jim Corbett Dhikala Canter Safari follows a unique pattern so that you can have the best experience exploring unique wildlife in India’s most famous wildlife park.
It takes you through key landmarks, grassland areas, Watch-towers, river streams, forest houses, and more.
Which gate is entry to Dhikala Zone?
Exploring Dhikala for first-time safari visitors can be an overwhelming experience.
So, at the very start of the safari, you have to assemble at the entry gate, which is the Dhangari gate, and is located approximately. 20 kilometres from Ramnagar. Here, all your IDs, documents, and other necessary paperwork will be checked before starting the canter safari.
The entry point features the Corbett National Park Museum also which you can explore before the start of the trip.
After that, once the trip starts, you will be taken to the Dhikala tourist complex, which is approximately. 30 kilometres from the entry gate and covers dense forest corridors, and is parallel to the Ram Ganga river.
During this transit, you will come across tall sal trees, river-based scenery, and open grasslands. During the mid-way of Jim Corbett Dhikala Canter Safari,
You will also be Coming Across Many Forest Houses, such as:
- Sultan Forest House: This is the first FRH that you will encounter en route, which dates back to the British era of the 1900s. Sal trees largely surround it, and is ideal for deer and bird sightings.
- Gairal FRH: It is set on the banks of the Ram Ganga River and features a very big crocodile viewpoint.
- Sarapduli Forest Rest House: It is located downstream from Gairal, and is a perfect spot for elephant and tiger sighting.
- Khinnanauli FRH: It is based in the Khinnanauli Chaur grasslands and is a prime tiger spotting location.
You are not allowed to get down at these spots as the canter won’t stop here while exploring the wildlife in Dhikala Zone. Getting down for food/meal is only allowed at the Dhikala main campus complex.
Also, You Will Cross Many Major Grassland Areas Like:
- Dhikala Chaur: This is the largest grassland in Jim Corbett and gives the perfect location for many wild animal sights, including tigers.
- Phulai Chaur: This grassland area is basically the backdrop of the Dhikala Tourist Complex.
- Beri Chaur: Offers rich wildlife activity for tourists.
- Buxar Chaur: One of the major locations to spot deer, tigers, elephants, and many other wildlife.
All of these grasslands act as a major grazing place for wild animals and, therefore, they are prime wildlife spotting locations.
More on What to Expect on a Wildlife Safari in Dhikala on Canter Trip
You will also get to explore the Dhikala Watchtower and Ram Ganga River Ecosystem.
Dhikala Watchtower has a man-made waterhole nearby. It’s the perfect spot to experience panoramic views of the scenery around and the Dhikala Grasslands. Follow all safety measures while using this place.
You will come across major tributaries of the Ram Ganga river and will experience the overall ecosystem created due to its presence in the region. It’s also a perfect spot for birdwatching and hosts many resident and migratory birds in the summer and winter seasons.
Seating Plan in the Shared Safari Vehicle
The canter vehicle has a 2×2 seating plan at an elevation for better wildlife viewing. It is perfect for an average-sized adult but offers limited ability to change positions. Still, you can get the complete Dhikala zone overview without any obstacles. There are handrails that you can hold while the vehicle is navigating rough and off-road terrain.
There is no privacy, and you will get a great opportunity to interact with fellow tourists. You will be constantly in contact with with the sun, dust, wind, etc. Also, the seats are basic benches with little to no cushioning. The guide with you will try their best to show you amazing wildlife across the entire route. Since the canter is elevated, you will get good options for various photography angles and an opportunity to capture wide-angle shots.
Wildlife to Expect During Canter Safari in Dhikala
| FLAGSHIP SPECIES | Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant |
| MAMMALS | Leopard, Sloth Bear, Jackal, Yellow-throated Marten, Otters, Spotted Deer (Chital), Sambar Deer, Hog Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Langur, Porcupine, Wild Rabbit |
| BIRDS | Great Pied Hornbill, White-backed Vulture, Crested Serpent Eagle, Kingfishers, Storks, Herons, and other migratory and resident species. |
Why Plan Jim Corbett Dhikala Canter Safari with Jungle Revives?
The Jungle Revives team will help you curate the perfect beginner guide to jungle safaris in India, especially while planning canter trips in Dhikala.
We will walk you through all the First-time safari tips for Jim Corbett exploration via the canter mode, so that you can make the best use of your time.
We will walk you through areas like:
- How to search for wild animals from a distance
- How to use binoculars and cameras for wildlife photography and spotting
- What type of clothes to wear
- Necessary things to carry
- Guidelines to follow.
And much more.
Also, we will assist you with advanced planning for the canter safari trip to avoid a high demand surge. Our team will help you avoid the following mistakes.
- Last-minute bookings.
- Chaos and hassle of interacting with an unverified agent.
- Picking the wrong season and timing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to build the perfect Beginner Guide to Jungle Safaris In India?
If you are looking to visit Jim Corbett or any other National Park in India, the Jungle Revives team can help you plan the perfect itinerary for a wildlife safari and adventure. Get in touch with Shishir or our experts to initiate the process at the earliest.
How many canters go to Dhikala Daily?
Less than 10 canters go to Dhikala daily, depending on the inflow of tourists and seasonality.
Can Children go on Canter Safari?
Yes, Children of all ages can go on the Jim Corbett Dhikala Canter Safari. Children below the age 12 do not need a ticket. But, if you want to reserve a seat for them, then you need to buy an additional seat. The management retains the right to transfer guests to alternative canters based on operational needs. Also, a canteen facility is available at the main Dhikala campus. You can feed your children either at the canteen or you can bring your own food also. Avoid bringing food packaged in plastic as that may end up creating pollution in the wildlife park.
What are the various Types of Safari in Jim Corbett National Park?
Canter Safari and Jeep Safari are the two modes of exploration you can opt for in Corbett for wildlife sightings.
Is food provided during canter safari in Dhikala?
No, it’s not. You have to carry your own food and snacks.-
What are some of the must-know First-Time Safari Tips for Jim Corbett Canter Trip?
- Carefully listen to and understand the Dhikala safari introduction given by your guide as the trip starts.
- Avoid talking loudly.
- Stay seated and still. Only get up unless directed by your guide.
- Never question the guide during critical moments.
- Maintain patience and persistence while exploring Dhikala wildlife. Don’t be impatient and bother others unnecessarily.
- Avoid flash photography at all costs.
Is Canter Safari good?
Yes, it’s the best choice for people who are tight on budget, or need to day-visit the Dhikala zone for wildlife exploration. It’s economical and less expensive than a jeep safari. You get a guided tour with relevant information from experts.
Which is better, Jeep or Canter Safari?
Go for a jeep safari in Dhikala if you are travelling in small groups of 4 to 6 people. But if you are travelling with a bigger group, opt for the canter safari option.
Are there any risks involved in a canter safari?
Although it is safe, unexpected animal behaviour due to human poking may result in the wild creature charging towards the canter vehicle. So avoid disturbing the wild animals at all costs during your canter safari trip.
What colors to avoid on safari?
Do not carry bright colored clothes, and always wear clothing that easily blends with the jungle environment. Make sure you follow this even during the Dhikala canter trips.
