Corbett Valley
Elephants in Dhikala grassland, Jim Corbett

Jim Corbett Canter Safari (Dhikala Zone)

The canter is your way to experience the legendary Dhikala zone as a day visitor — a large open-top vehicle seating around 16, run as a shared, conducted safari by the Forest Department.

It's the only way to enter Dhikala for the day without an overnight stay inside the zone. Corbett Valley helps you book canter seats, understand the timings, and plan the day around this longer, deeper drive into Corbett's most famous landscape.

We are a private travel company assisting with booking. Canter safari is operated by the Corbett Tiger Reserve; permits and seats are subject to their availability.

Why the Dhikala canter is special

Dhikala sits in the core of the park, overlooking the Patli Dun valley and the Ramganga reservoir. Its grasslands (chaurs), river views and dense forest make it one of the richest stretches in Corbett. Because day-visit jeeps aren't allowed here, the canter is the only day option — and a memorable one, riding high with wide, open views.

Canter safari at a glance

DetailInformation
VehicleOpen-top canter, approx. 16 seats
ZoneDhikala only
DurationAround 4–5 hours
SlotsOne morning & one afternoon canter (subject to availability)
SeasonDhikala generally open mid-November to mid-June

Canter safari timings

SeasonMorningAfternoon
Summer (Mar–Jun)5:30 – 10:30 AM2:30 – 7:00 PM
Winter (Oct–Feb)6:00 – 11:00 AM12:00 – 5:00 PM

Exact reporting times are confirmed at booking, as they're adjusted seasonally.

Indicative pricing

Canter safari is booked per person.

VisitorIndicative price (per person)
Indian nationalsApprox. ₹2,500 per person
Foreign nationalsApprox. ₹4,500 per person

Prices are indicative and subject to change. Your exact amount is confirmed at the time of booking.

Good to know

  • Pickup is from Ramnagar; the canter starts and ends at the assigned point. Transport to it can be arranged.
  • Carry valid government photo ID for each person — checked at the gate.
  • It's a longer ride than a jeep safari, so carry water, snacks, a cap and sun protection.

Canter Safari FAQs

What's the difference between a jeep and a canter safari?
A jeep is a private 4x4 for up to 6 people and can access several zones. A canter is a larger shared vehicle (about 16 seats) that runs only in the Dhikala zone for day visitors. Jeep is more private; canter is the only day route into Dhikala.
Can I do a jeep safari in Dhikala instead?
Only if you're staying overnight inside the Dhikala zone. Otherwise, the canter is your way in for the day.
When does the Dhikala canter run?
Generally from mid-November to mid-June, closing through the monsoon. Exact dates follow the Forest Department's seasonal schedule.
Is the canter good for photography?
Yes — the high, open seating gives wide views. Carry a zoom lens if you can, and keep movements calm and quiet.