Inaugurated by the Ramnagar Forest Division, Kota Eco Tourism Zone offers a unique wildlife experience. Visitors can spot various wildlife during their safari in this zone, which falls under the Pawalgarh Conservation Reserve, allowing a rare opportunity to connect with nature. Unlike other zones of Jim Corbett, Kota Tourism zone is often less crowded, ensuring a good safari ride. During the ride, you can spot stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and the rich biodiversity of the region. Being home to 365 species of birds, 33 species of mammals, and more than 400
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Inaugurated by the Ramnagar Forest Division, Kota Eco Tourism Zone offers a unique wildlife experience. Visitors can spot various wildlife during their safari in this zone, which falls under the Pawalgarh Conservation Reserve, allowing a rare opportunity to connect with nature. Unlike other zones of Jim Corbett, Kota Tourism zone is often less crowded, ensuring a good safari ride. During the ride, you can spot stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and the rich biodiversity of the region. Being home to 365 species of birds, 33 species of mammals, and more than 400 species of flora, this zone is now attracting safari enthusiasts from all over.
Home to varied wildlife
The major attraction of the Kota Eco Tourism zone is its diverse wildlife where visitors can spot various wildlife, especially big cats like Leopard and Royal Bengal Tigers. Situated close to Jim Corbett, the area often sighted Elephants and sambar deer, especially during the summer.
Jim Corbett is renowned across the country for its jungle safaris and its terms and conditions. However, being situated near Jim Corbett National Park, the Kota Tourism Zone doesn't fall in its territory and is not bound by its regulations. The primary motive of its inclusion is to reduce the crowd pressure on Jim Corbett National Park.
The zone not only caters to tourists but also researchers and wildlife enthusiasts who continuously contribute to its development and conservation. Kota Safari Zone is the perfect blend of wildlife adventure and scenic natural vistas, making it an ideal place for both seasoned and first time safari enthusiasts.
Entrance Gate
Each zone has a specific gate and designated route for safari permitted by the Forest Department. Bhandarpani serves as the entrance gate for Kota Zone, allowing visitors to commence a 26 km journey filled with adventures and natural wonders. Currently, only 30 jeeps are allowed every day for both morning and evening shifts.
Safari rides are open during monsoon and summer season but remain closed during monsoon. Kota Tourist Zone shares boundaries with the renowned Sitabani Eco Tourism Zone, hence it becomes an integral part of the Pawalgarh Conservation Reserve.
Safari Booking
It is mandatory for the visitors to register for safari in advance. Registration can be done either online or by visiting directly at the entrance gate. However, it is recommended to book your safari in advance because the slots for every ride are limited and the occupancy rate is always high during the peak season.
Visitors will not be allowed to enter the safari zone without any registration. Visitors are encouraged to book their safari from authorized portals only. Online registration charges do not include Gypsy and Nature guide charges, which have to be paid on site. In a day 30 gypsy rides in each shift are allowed in the Kota Tourism Zone.
Safari Timing
The Kota Tourism Zone is open to safari enthusiasts during the summer and winter season. Due to the monsoon, the zone remains closed for the safari i.e. July to October. Visitors keen to explore this new zone for their adventurous Jungle Safari can plant their visit between November and June.
Season | Timing |
| Summer | Morning | Entry Time : 05:45 AM to 07:45 AM
Exit Time : 10:45 AM |
| Evening | Entry Time : 02:30 PM to 04:30 PM
Exit Time : 07:00 PM |
| Winter | Morning | Entry Time : 06:30 AM to 08:30 AM
Exit Time : 11:30 AM |
| Evening | Entry Time : 01:00 PM to 02:30 PM
Exit Time : 05:30 PM |
Things to Do
Visitors can enjoy other activities during their visit to Kota Eco Tourism Zone, including : -
| Bird Watching | Home to more than 600 species of birds, Kota zone offers a chance to spot some rare species during the safari. |
| Sitabani Temple | To experience the divine amidst the serene forest, visitors can visit Sitabani Temple, located just 5 km away from Bhandarpani Forest Check Post. |
| Photography | It will be a perfect zone for both professional and amateur photographers. Zone offers excellent conditions and opportunities to capture scenic and stunning wildlife moments. |
| Star Gazing | Due to its minimal population, Nainital offers a perfect opportunity for stargazing, especially during winters. Visitors can enjoy the clear night skies right from their balcony. |
| Natural Waterfall | Uttarakhand boasts prominent waterfalls. Among them Tiger Fall and Vasudhara Fall are well known, but Corbett fall, Laduagad fall and Barati Rau fall are special. Surrounded by dense forest, their crystal clear white water streams and its thunderous sound creates an unforgettable experience. |
Accommodation Facility
Visitors can book forest rest houses, hotels, resorts, and guesthouses for their comfortable stays during their visit. Lodging can be booked during online safari registration or separately, as per your convenience.
Important Tips for Travellers
Before embarking on your adventurous safari journey, keep the following points in mind to make your safari smooth, safe and memorable.
Before Journey | During Safari |
- Always book your safari and accommodation in advance.
- Book safari either from the official website or from an authorized safari operator.
- Choose accommodation as close to the safari zone.
- A valid passport is mandatory for the foreign nationals.
- Once confirmed, booking will not be cancelled nor will it be transferred.
- Carry binoculars for a close and better view of the wildlife.
- Carry sufficient cash, as network coverage in the area is limited.
| - A safari guide is mandatory for each vehicle, whose charges must be paid by the visitors on site.
- Indian visitors always keep the identity proof in original as submitted during registration, while foreign nationals must carry their passport.
- During summers, wear a safari hat and apply sunscreen.
- Wear dull colour clothes during safari that blend with the natural surroundings.
- Always wear sturdy shoes, avoid slippers and sandals.
- Apply mosquito repellent cream on your body.
- Getting down from the gypsy during the safari is strictly prohibited.
- Always carry a water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Carrying firearms or alcohol is prohibited during safari.
- Maintain silence when encountering wild animals.
- Adhere all guidelines shared by the guides before and during the safari.
- Carry necessary snacks during the ride.
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Nearby Attraction
After enjoying a wholesome time with nature, visitors should not miss chance to explore other notable spots located nearby; such as : -
- Sitabani Eco Tourism Zone.
- Corbett Falls.
- Barati Rau Fall.
- Laduagad Fall.
- City Forest (Nagar Van).
- Sitabani Temple.
- Jim Corbett Museum.
- Garjiya Devi Temple.
- Tiffin Top.
