
Jim Corbett National Park
Roam with the Wild: Exploring the Phato Safari Zone
The Phato Zone in Jim Corbett was officially opened by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Damodar Modi and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Dhami on January 2, 2022. This new zone is situated within the Terai West Forest, located in the northern section of Jim Corbett National Park, adjacent to the Amangarh Tiger Reserve to the west. In response to the growing influx of tourists, the Photo Zone has been established as the seventh zone, expanding upon the existing six zones.
Covering an area of 2,516.70 hectares, the Photo Zone is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, deer, and various bird species, all of which can be observed closely during jeep safaris. The large artificial water reservoirs within the zone significantly enhance the habitat for wildlife, often attracting Royal Bengal Tigers. The rich variety of animals and birds contributes to the scenic beauty of the Photo Zone's forest. Notably, the Phato Zone is recognized as the most densely forested area within Jim Corbett National Park and throughout Uttarakhand, making jeep safaris here particularly enjoyable. The distance from Corbett City Ramnagar to the entrance of the Photo Zone is a mere 18 km, allowing tourists to also view the impressive Tumadiya Dam and enjoy future boating opportunities.
In terms of area, the Phato Jeep Safari Zone is the largest within Jim Corbett Park. Visitors have a higher likelihood of spotting wild animals, including tigers, in this zone compared to other jeep safari areas, making it a prime location for wildlife enthusiasts. Additionally, overnight accommodations are available in the Phato Jeep Safari Zone, featuring a historic forest rest house built during the British era, along with the ongoing construction of the first treehouse in Jim Corbett National Park.