Phato Zone Safari – Jim Corbett National Park
Package Highlights:
Phato Zone is one of the newest and rapidly developing safari zones in Jim Corbett National Park. Officially opened to tourists in 2022, this zone has quickly gained attention for its fresh safari routes, dense sal forests, and increasing tiger movement.
Located near the Maldhan region close to Ramnagar, Phato offers an exciting wildlife experience with less crowd and untouched forest landscapes. Since tourism started recently, animals here often behave more naturally, giving visitors an authentic jungle experience while maintaining ecological balance.
Phato Zone Safari – Jim Corbett National Park
Package Highlights:
Phato Zone is one of the newest and rapidly developing safari zones in Jim Corbett National Park. Officially opened to tourists in 2022, this zone has quickly gained attention for its fresh safari routes, dense sal forests, and increasing tiger movement.
Located near the Maldhan region close to Ramnagar, Phato offers an exciting wildlife experience with less crowd and untouched forest landscapes. Since tourism started recently, animals here often behave more naturally, giving visitors an authentic jungle experience while maintaining ecological balance.
Wildlife Experience in Phato Zone
Phato Zone is becoming a promising destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The area supports a rich ecosystem where visitors may spot:
Royal Bengal Tigers (increasing activity on new safari tracks)
Wild Elephant herds near water zones
Deer species – Chital, Sambar & Barking Deer
Wild Boar and Langurs commonly seen along forest trails
Reptiles and small mammals in forest patches
Colorful birdlife including woodland birds and ground dwellers
The quiet forest routes and untouched habitat provide a raw jungle feel that is still less explored by mass tourism.
Phato Jeep Safari
The Jeep Safari is the only permitted way to explore Phato Zone.
New safari tracks have been designed to provide:
Safe jungle exploration
Access to high wildlife activity areas
Scenic forest viewpoints perfect for photography
Each safari is conducted with a trained forest guide and experienced driver who help track animal movements and interpret signs like footprints, calls, and trails.
Morning safaris usually offer better chances of spotting predators and elephants on the move.
Buffer Area & Eco-Tourism Experience
Phato Zone has been developed with a focus on eco-tourism and nature conservation.
Visitors can experience:
Peaceful forest routes with minimal tourist traffic
Wooden bridges and river crossings during safari trails
Scenic photography points inside the forest
A calm environment ideal for nature observation and birdwatching
Because tourism is still developing here, Phato offers a more relaxed and peaceful safari compared to the crowded zones of Corbett.
Location & Accessibility
Entry Gate: Phato Gate
Nearest City: Ramnagar (Approx. 18–22 km)
The zone is easily accessible for tourists staying around:
Maldhan region
Kashipur–Ramnagar Highway resorts
Ramnagar town hotels
Phato Zone – Newly Opened Night Stay
Phato also offers a rare opportunity to stay inside the forest at the government-managed Phato Forest Rest House (FRH).
Located in the Tarai West Forest Division, the rest house allows visitors to experience the jungle after sunset, surrounded by dense sal forests and natural wildlife habitat.
Accommodation Details
Type: Government Forest Rest House
FRH Option: Phato FRH
Facilities Available
Wooden cottages
Solar-powered lighting
Attached washrooms
Open dining space
Assistance from forest guides
Booking: Available through the official Corbett eco-tourism or forest department portal.
Note: Rooms are limited, so advance booking is highly recommended.
Safari Timings
Winter Season
Morning: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Evening: 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Summer Season
Morning: 6:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Evening: 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM
(Safari timings may change slightly depending on forest department regulations.)
Important Visitor Information
Advance safari permit booking is mandatory
Only registered gypsies and authorized guides are allowed
Maintain silence and avoid disturbing wildlife
Do not carry plastic waste inside the forest
Follow guide instructions for safety at all times