If you are a wildlife photography enthusiast searching for the perfect destination in India, the Dhikala Photography Tour in Jim Corbett National Park is a dream come true. Located in the heart of the Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand, the Dhikala zone is one of the most picturesque and wildlife-rich areas, offering unmatched opportunities to capture nature at its rawest and most majestic.
Why Choose Dhikala for Photography?
1. Core Area of Corbett:
Dhikala is part of the core area of Jim Corbett National Park, which means high chances of wildlife sightings, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and various bird species.
2. Diverse Landscapes:
From vast grasslands (locally known as chaurs) to dense Sal forests and riverbanks, Dhikala presents a variety of backdrops perfect for wildlife photography.
3. Abundant Wildlife:
The area is home to:
- Bengal Tigers
- Asiatic Elephants
- Spotted Deer
- Wild Boars
- Crocodiles (near the Ramganga river)
- Over 500 bird species
4. Exclusive Stay Inside the Forest:
Dhikala Forest Rest House offers in-forest accommodation, which allows early morning and late evening safaris—key times for perfect lighting and wildlife movement.
What to Expect on the Tour
Accommodation
- Stay at the historic Dhikala Forest Rest House
- Basic but comfortable rooms with the thrill of being inside a tiger reserve.
- Shared electricity (limited hours) and mobile network are usually unavailable—perfect for a digital detox.
Photography Highlights
- Morning & Evening Jeep Safaris with trained naturalists.
- Bird Photography: Paradise for birders, especially in winter with migratory species.
- Tiger & Elephant Shots: With some patience, you can capture iconic images of tigers walking through grasslands or elephants bathing in rivers.
- Landscape Photography: Sunrise and sunset over the Ramganga reservoir offer stunning compositions.
Best Time to Visit Dhikala for Photography
| Season | Wildlife Activity | Ideal For |
| November – February | Best time for birding and misty forest shots | Landscape & Bird Photography |
| March – June | Higher chance of tiger sightings due to heat | Big Cat Photography |
Note: Dhikala zone is closed during the monsoon (June to mid-November).
Photography Tips for Dhikala Tour
- Use a telephoto lens (300mm or more) for birds and distant animals.
- Carry a wide-angle lens for landscapes and forest compositions.
- Be silent and patient—wildlife sightings require stillness.
- Use natural light creatively during dawn and dusk hours.
- Respect the forest rules and animal space—avoid flash photography.
Tour Itinerary Overview (3N/4D Sample)
Day 1:
Arrive in Ramnagar, complete forest permit formalities.
Afternoon gypsy ride into Dhikala.
Evening safari around Dhikala grasslands.
Day 2:
Morning and evening safaris.
Full day photography inside the forest zone.
Day 3:
Morning bird-watching walk.
Safari to different forest routes for varied landscapes.
Day 4:
Early morning safari.
Return to Ramnagar and depart.
Conclusion
The Dhikala Photography Tour is not just a wildlife experience—it’s an immersive journey into India’s oldest national park. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or a nature lover with a camera, the Dhikala zone offers powerful moments that are both rare and beautiful.
From the deep roar of a tiger at dusk to the elegance of a kingfisher diving into a river, every frame at Dhikala tells a story. So pack your lenses and head to this wildlife haven—your next award-winning photograph might just be waiting in the grasslands of Dhikala.