Sitabani Eco Tourism Zone

Sitabani Eco Tourism Zone is one of the popular zones for jungle safari enthusiasts. Located in the Pawalgarh Conservation Reserve, it provides an enthralling safari opportunity in the lush green forest full of wild animals. In recent years, it has attracted a number of jungle safari enthusiasts where they can spot a variety of wildlife, including leopards, sambhars, deer, elephants and many species of birds.
 

The Safari takes you through a forest adorned with towering trees and rare flora and fauna. During the ride, you can experience undiluted wildlife and pristine nature. Experienced guides will help you throughout the journey, sharing fascinating information about the species and the ecosystem. One can experience Sitabani Jungle Safari throughout the year, except monsoon season.
 

Home to Variety of Flora and Fauna
 

Sitabani Wildlife Reserve is not part of the renowned Jim Corbett National Park, thus its terms and conditions differ. Unlike the Jim Corbett Zone, the Sitabani Eco Tourism Zone remains open for the visitors during summer and winter season. The forest reserve is home to a myriad of flora and fauna including Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, Deer, Sambhar, and other wildlife. Additionally, it is a home to more than 600 species of trees mainly Sal, Haldu, Peepal, Rohini. You can also find various medicinal herbs, shrubs, bamboos, orchids in this region. This zone is particularly known for nature walks and other popular attractions. 
 

Safari Amidst Serenity
 

Sitabani Jungle Safari is known for its unique and tranquil wildlife experience, where you will get peaceful retreats amidst the wilderness. It stands out among other Safari Zones due to its untouched beauty and peaceful surroundings. As this zone is free from the usual rules and regulations of the forest department, helping you to enjoy nature with utmost freedom. Surrounded by lush greenery, river valleys, and picturesque landscape, it is the perfect place for wildlife enthusiast, photographer, and nature lovers.
 

Safari Booking
 

To explore the wilderness of Sitabani Wildlife Reserve, you need to book your safari in advance. You can book the Sitabani Jungle Safari online from its website or offline at the entrance gate. Since this zone is not part of Jim Corbett, visitors are not required to obtain a permit from the forest department.
 

Safari Booking Charges
 

During online booking visitors need to pay an online registration whose charges vary for Indian and Foreign Nationals. Gypsy and guide fees are to be paid by the visitors later. For maximum 6 person visitors need to pay a fee of Rs 1430/- (excluding camera charges).
 

Safari Timing
 

Visitors can enjoy Sitabani Jungle Safari twice a day, once in the morning and second in the afternoon. Timing for Sitabani Jungle Safari for Winter and Summer are given in the table below, which are subject to change. The Sitabani Safari Zone will remain closed from 1st July to 14 October due to prevailing monsoon conditions.
 

Entrance Point
 

Sitabani Zone is a one way safari route, which can be completed through two possible routes.
 

• The First route covers a distance of 42 km, starting from Tedha followed by Bhandarpani- Sitabani-Pawalgarh-Kyari. The Exit point for this route will be either Pawalgarh or Kyari.
• The Second route is around 50 km, commences from Pawalgarh followed by Kyari- Tedha-Bhandarpani-Sitabani, with the exit point at Pawalgarh.
   

Mythology Connection
 

It is believed that the Sitabani zone gained popularity due to its connection with the Epic Ramayana. It is said that during the exile Lord Rama and his wife, Goddess Sita, spent some time in the Sitabani Jungle, hence earning its name Sitabani. In connection to this folklore, a temple dedicated to Goddess Sita is also established here.
 

Things to Do
 

In the midst of rich wildlife, you can engage in some other activities at Sitabani Wildlife Reserve, such as : -
 

• Bird Watching : - The Sitabani Wildlife Reserve Zone is home to a variety of bird species. Bird enthusiasts have the opportunity to witness some rare birds from a watchtower located near Sitabani Forest Rest house.
• Sita Temple : - For a spiritual significance, you can also visit the Sitabani Temple, dedicated to Goddess Sita.
• PCR Library : - If you love to read books, the PCR Library, situated in the midst of the Jungle is perfect for you.
• Photography : - It will be a dream destination for photographers, as it offers various picture perfect spots. The sunlight streaming through the trees, creates perfect conditions to capture the wilderness of the jungle.
   

Accommodation Facility
 

Visitors can book Forest Rest House and other resorts near the location for a comfortable stay.
 

Important Tips for Travellers
 

• To avoid any last minute rush, book your safari and accommodation in advance.
• Persons with an age of 12+ years are eligible for registration.
• During Jeep safari booking, provide valid details as mentioned in the identity proof.
• Passport is mandatory as an identity for non Indian residents.
• Online Registration can only be done through desktop or laptop.
• Carry the same identity proof as submitted during the booking.
• Booking once done will not be canceled nor the fees will be refunded.
• A nature guide is mandatory for every vehicle during the Jungle Safari.
• Always wear dull colour clothing during jungle safari, such as Khaki or Olive Green, that merge with the natural surroundings.
• Carrying alcohol or firearms during the safari ride is strictly prohibited.
• Walking or getting down from the vehicle during the ride is not allowed.
• Follow the guidelines shared by the guide during the safari.
• Authorities may cancel the safari ride at any time without any prior notice.
• Always carry a litter bag during the ride.
• Avoid feeding to the animals or shout when encountered with them.
• Non Vegetarian food is not allowed inside the safari zone.
   

Nearby Attraction
 

After an exciting jungle safari, visitors can also explore other notable attraction nearby; which are : -

• Jim Corbett National Park.
• Jim Corbett Museum.
• Sitabani Temple.
• Kosi Barrage.
• Tiffin Top
• Garjiya Devi.
• Kainchi Dham.
   

Online Safari Booking Process
 

• Visit Pawalgarh Conservation Reserve Website.
• Tap the Login/Register button.
• Select Click here to Register in the new page.
• Enter the following details, to complete the registration.
  • Full Name.
  • Email ID.
  • Password (Minimum 10 Characters)
  • Mobile Number
  • Your Photograph
  • Address
  • Emergency Contact Number.
    
• Enter the validation code and press the 'Register' tab.
• Post registration Login with Email ID and Password.
  
• Select Sitabani Eco Tourism Zone and tap on the Book Now button.
• For Booking, select the Entry Gate and Shift from the list.
  
• Select booking date from the calendar.
• Select Number of people from the list (maximum 6 people can be selected)
• Share the details of the person.
  
• Choose the number of cameras you are carrying.
• Booking details will appear on your screen.
  
• To confirm the booking, pay the booking amount online through Credit/Debit/Net Banking/Wallet/UPI.
  
• For any queries related to online registration, users can contact the officials at 5947251362.