
Jim Corbett National Park remains partially closed every year during the monsoon season to ensure visitor safety, protect wildlife habitats, and allow essential maintenance inside the reserve. Most core safari zones close between mid-June and mid-November, while a few buffer zones continue operating throughout the year.
Popular safari zones including Dhikala, Bijrani and Durga Devi remain closed during the monsoon because forest tracks become unsafe after heavy rainfall. Flooded river crossings, slippery roads and the risk of landslides make safari operations difficult during this period.
Heavy Rainfall: Continuous rainfall damages forest roads, stream crossings and safari tracks, making vehicle movement unsafe.
Flooding of Riverbeds: Several safari routes pass through seasonal streams and riverbeds that become flooded during the monsoon.
Wildlife Breeding Season: Reduced tourist movement helps minimise disturbance to wildlife during important breeding and nesting periods.
Forest Maintenance: The closure allows the Forest Department to repair safari tracks, bridges, signboards and other visitor facilities before the next tourism season.
Visitor Safety: Closing vulnerable zones significantly reduces the risk of accidents caused by landslides, falling trees and overflowing rivers.
Zones Remaining Open: Jhirna and Dhela Safari Zones generally remain open throughout the year, subject to weather and forest department advisories.
Yes. Although major safari zones remain closed, visitors can still plan a trip by booking safaris in Jhirna and Dhela zones, which usually remain open throughout the year. Accommodation outside the park also continues to operate during the monsoon season.
Most safari zones reopen between October and mid-November after the Forest Department completes safety inspections and repairs. The reopening schedule may vary every year depending on rainfall, road conditions and official notifications.
Visitors planning a safari should always check the operational status of individual zones before travelling, as opening and closing dates may change depending on weather conditions. Planning your visit after the monsoon offers better road access and increased availability of safari zones.
| Safari Zone | Monsoon Status |
|---|---|
| Dhikala | Closed |
| Bijrani | Closed |
| Durga Devi | Closed |
| Jhirna | Usually Open |
| Dhela | Usually Open |