Bijrani Zone- Among the six safari zones, the Bijrani zone is considered as the best zone after the Dhikala zone to spot the tiger. The picturesque landscape of this zone, which consists of large grass fields known as Chaurs and dense Sal forest, plenty of waterholes, and river streams is no less enchanting than the Dhikala zone. The chances of tiger spotting in this zone are almost similar to the Dhikala zone and the tiger sighting is reported often by safari tourists. Along with the big cats like Bengal tigers and leopards, several types of other animals like wild elephants, and black bears as well as different types of deer and antelopes namely Chital, Sambar, and Hog Deer are found in this zone. It also a perfect place for birding, there are around 600 species of resident and migratory birds are seen here.
Aamdanda gate is the entrance to the Bijrani zone, which is located at a distance of around 1 km from Ramnagar city. There is a buffer zone of 5 km after entering the gate, which you have to cross to get into the core zone. There are two forest rest houses located in this zone and are available for tourists to stay here after making a booking for the night's stay. One is the Bijrani forest rest house and the other is the Malani forest rest house. The day safari is not allowed to stay here for the night, but the day safari can enjoy the elephant ride from here. The elephant safari is only available in the Bijrani and Dhikala zones and is subject to availability as there are limited numbers of elephants used for the safari ride. You have to book the elephant safari on the spot and it is booked on a first-come, first-serve basis.
In order to visit the Bijrani zone, you have to obtain an entry permit for the safari, which you have to show to the forest officials at the entry gate. You can book your safari entry permit an online maximum of 45 days in advance or you can book the same-day safari from the forest office in Ramnagar after paying the required fee. Booking is done on a first-come, first-served basis and is subject to availability. Along with the entry permit, you also have to hire a safari jeep and a guide/naturist, which are mandatory for entry in the tiger reserve area. A maximum of six adults and two children (below 12 years) are allowed in one safari jeep apart from the driver and a guide. It is always best to book your permit in advance before reaching the Corbett tiger reserve as there is always a rush of tourists for the safari and only 30 safari jeeps are allowed to enter into the Bijrani zone in one shift and almost all jeeps are pre-booked.
For the accommodation, the tourists who are visiting the Corbett for the day safari to the Bijrani zone can stay at the hotels and resorts located in the Dhikuli village, just outside the Bijrani zone, along with the boundary of the zone. From economical hotels to beautiful and luxurious resorts are available here to stay according to your budget.
