About Sitabani Zone
Sitabani is Corbett’s legendary buffer forest, an ancient landscape of Sal trees, streams, and temples linked to the Ramayana, offering a gentler and more flexible safari experience that is ideal for relaxed drives, birding, and combining nature with a touch of mythology.
Corbett Landscape (Sitabani) area is open from 15 October to 30 June every year.
This buffer zone of Corbett area is a major part of the newly created Powalgarh Conservation Reserve, located on the Northern side of the Kosi river – based on the Tourism principles followed by Corbett National Park – entry is from 02 gates namely Bhandarpani & Powalgarh. This Sal, Mixed & Riverine Forest corridor is rich in all flora & fauna and recent camera trap surveys show a large population of Tigers and of course all other mammals. There is a temple located in the middle of the Forest dedicated to Goddess Sita Ji – this temple has a mythological meaning for Hindu devotees – natural warm water from a spring flows here – supposedly has some medicinal & healing qualities. A well conducted Jeep Safari with a knowledgeable driver is as rewarding for wildlife viewing as compared to a Jeep Safari to the other zones !!
Flora & Fauna
The forest is dominated by tall Sal trees and mixed woodland, interspersed with open patches and seasonal brooks, where you can expect sightings of deer, langurs, jackals, peacocks, and a rich variety of woodland birds, along with occasional elephant movement through the area.
Safari Experience
Sitabani safaris are more flexible than core zone drives, allowing the freedom to stop at temples, viewpoints, and streams, while our drivers and guides help you explore hidden corners, take safe photo breaks, and understand how wildlife coexists with local communities in this landscape.
Stay Options
While there is no lodge inside Sitabani itself, several comfortable resorts are located in the surrounding area, and we recommend stays that minimise transfer time while immersing you in greenery and a peaceful environment.
Best Time to Visit
Sitabani is a good year-round option when open, especially for those seeking a lighter and more relaxed safari experience compared to the core zones, with cool winter mornings and late afternoons offering a particularly atmospheric setting among the tall trees.
How to Reach
The Sitabani entry point is a short drive from Ramnagar and many nearby resorts, and we provide reporting details in advance while coordinating gypsy pick-up directly from your stay wherever possible.
Summary
Choose Sitabani if you are travelling with young children or elderly guests, or simply prefer a calm forest outing with stories, birds, and streams, and with Tigerland Safaris, it becomes a well-paced half-day or full-day experience that complements your core zone game drives.
Why Choose Us-
80+ Tigers
Thriving tiger population across Corbett’s core and buffer zones.
Private Gypsy Safaris
Comfortable 6-seater jeeps with expert drivers and naturalists.
Year-Round Access
Buffer zones open all year, core zones seasonally available.
Easy from Delhi
Just 5 hours by road or train from Delhi NCR.