Sitabani zone
Sitabani zone is a beautiful and unique ecotourism zone located in the buffer area of Corbett Tiger Reserve. Unlike the core zones, Sitabani offers a more relaxed and less restrictive wildlife experience. It is named after the ancient Sitabani Temple, which is believed to be the place where Goddess Sita spent some time during her exile according to Hindu mythology.
The zone is known for its dense Sal forests, wide grasslands, and rich biodiversity. Sitabani is open throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for wildlife enthusiasts even during the monsoon season when core zones of Corbett remain closed. The zone is accessible from the Kotdwar Road and offers excellent opportunities for jeep safaris, bird watching, and nature photography.
Accommodation : Sitabani Forest Rest House
Sitabani offers comfortable accommodation options for visitors who wish to stay overnight. The Forest Rest House (FRH) provides basic yet comfortable rooms with essential amenities. Additionally, there are private resorts and eco-lodges located near the zone entrance that offer more luxurious stays.
Food & Other Services : Sitabani Zone
The Sitabani zone has limited food facilities inside the forest area. Visitors are advised to carry their own food and water for safaris. However, nearby resorts and hotels in Ramnagar and Kotdwar provide excellent dining options. A small canteen may be available near the entry gate during peak season.
Visitors can enjoy nature walks, bird watching sessions, and visit the ancient Sitabani Temple located within the zone. The temple adds a spiritual and historical dimension to the wildlife experience.
Night Stay
Sitabani FRH
Sitabani Forest Rest House is a peaceful accommodation nestled deep inside the Sitabani zone. It offers a rustic experience with basic amenities including comfortable beds, attached bathrooms, and a small kitchen. The FRH is surrounded by dense forest, allowing guests to experience the sounds of the jungle at night. The property is managed by the forest department and advance booking is required.
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SITABANI FRH - Double Bed
Room Type: FRH - (Double Bed)
Location: Sitabani Zone
Entry Gate: Sitabani Gate
Distance from Ramnagar: 15 km
No. of Rooms: 3
Restaurant and Canteen: No (Kitchen available for self-cooking)
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SITABANI Dormitory
Room Type: Dormitory (Multi-bed)
Location: Sitabani Zone
Entry Gate: Sitabani Gate
Distance from Ramnagar: 15 km
No. of Beds: 6
Restaurant and Canteen: No
Private Resorts Near Sitabani
Several private resorts and eco-lodges are located near the Sitabani zone entrance, offering comfortable accommodations with modern amenities including swimming pools, restaurants, and guided safari services. These are excellent options for families and travelers seeking more luxurious stays.
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Resort Accommodation
Room Type: Deluxe/Super Deluxe/Tents
Location: Near Sitabani Gate
Entry Gate: Sitabani Gate
Distance from Ramnagar: 12-18 km
No. of Rooms: Varies by resort
Restaurant and Canteen: Yes (Multi-cuisine)
Attractions
Jeep Safari
Jeep safari is the most popular way to explore the Sitabani zone. The safari route takes you through dense forests, open grasslands, and along seasonal streams. The zone is known for frequent sightings of elephants, leopards, deer species, and a variety of birds. Unlike core zones, Sitabani allows safaris throughout the year, including monsoon season.
Sitabani Temple
The ancient Sitabani Temple is a major attraction within the zone. According to local legends, Goddess Sita stayed here during her exile. The temple is located in a serene forest clearing and attracts both pilgrims and tourists. The area around the temple is excellent for bird watching and nature walks.
Bird Watching
Sitabani zone is a paradise for bird watchers with over 250 species of birds recorded in the area. Common sightings include various species of kingfishers, woodpeckers, barbets, orioles, eagles, vultures, and hornbills. The winter months (November to February) are particularly good for bird watching as migratory birds arrive in the region.
Grasslands and Waterholes
The zone has several beautiful grasslands and natural waterholes that attract a wide range of wildlife, especially during the dry summer months. Visitors can often spot herds of spotted deer (chital), sambar deer, wild boars, and occasionally elephants at these waterholes. The grasslands also provide excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.
Nature Trails
Sitabani offers designated nature trails where visitors can take guided walks through the forest. These walks are educational and allow visitors to learn about the local flora, fauna, and medicinal plants. A trained naturalist accompanies the groups and shares insights about the ecosystem.
The zone is also known for its population of leopards, though sightings require patience and luck. Elephants are frequently seen in herds, especially during the summer when they come to the waterholes.
One of the unique features of Sitabani is that it remains open when the core zones are closed during monsoons, making it a reliable destination for wildlife enthusiasts throughout the year.
The zone is also home to several species of reptiles including monitor lizards, pythons, and various snakes. The butterfly population is also remarkable, with many colorful species fluttering around during the post-monsoon season.
The chances of spotting a sloth bear are moderate in this zone, especially during early morning and late evening hours when they come out in search of food.
Open & Close Time
Open
The Sitabani zone remains open throughout the year, including during the monsoon season (July to September). Safari timings vary by season:
Summer (April to June): Morning 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM, Evening 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Winter (November to February): Morning 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM, Evening 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Monsoon (July to September): Timings vary based on weather conditions
Closed
Sitabani zone does not have an annual closed season like the core zones. However, safaris may be suspended on certain days due to extreme weather conditions, forest maintenance, or administrative reasons. Visitors are advised to check with the forest department before planning their trip.
How to Reach Sitabani
Sitabani zone is easily accessible from both Ramnagar and Kotdwar. The main entry gate is located on the Ramnagar-Kotdwar road, approximately 15 km from Ramnagar city center. The zone is well-connected by road, and taxis are readily available from Ramnagar railway station and bus stand. Please view the route map for detailed directions.
Sitabani Zone Entry Timing & Safari Information
Entry to Sitabani zone is permitted through the Sitabani Gate located on the Ramnagar-Kotdwar road. Safari bookings can be made online through the official Corbett Tiger Reserve website or through authorized travel agents. Entry timings are strictly enforced, and visitors must carry valid photo ID proof.
Safari Types Available:
- Morning Safari: 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM (Summer) / 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM (Winter)
- Evening Safari: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Summer) / 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM (Winter)
- Full Day Safari: Available on request (subject to availability)
Important Note: Unlike the core zones of Corbett Tiger Reserve, Sitabani zone remains open during the monsoon season (July to September). However, weather conditions can be unpredictable, and visitors should check road conditions before traveling. During heavy rainfall, some forest roads may become muddy and difficult to navigate. It is advisable to book safaris and accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist season (October to June).