Ramnagar-based team
Ground-level advice on gates, stays, and travel timings.
Open Year-Round (Landscape)
Sitabani Safari Zone
A Serene Fusion of Spiritual Heritage & Untamed Wilderness.
Sitabani: The Sacred Buffer Zone
Sitabani is not just a safari zone; it's a journey through time and nature. Known as the 'Landscape Zone' of the Corbett region, it lies in the buffer forest area. Unlike the core zones, Sitabani offers a unique freedom—it is the only area where visitors can enjoy nature walks and explore an ancient temple deep within the woods.
Mythological Roots: Sita Temple
Legend says Goddess Sita spent her exile days in these very woods. The ancient Sita Temple and Valmiki Ashram located here attract pilgrims and history buffs alike, offering a spiritual layer to the wildlife experience.
The Gentle Giants: Asiatic Elephants
Sitabani is a preferred corridor for wild elephant herds. The large open meadows and perennial water streams make it one of the most reliable spots for elephant sightings in the entire Kumaon region.
Unrestricted Nature Exploration
As a buffer zone, Sitabani allows for trekking and walking tours under expert guidance. It is a paradise for botanists, with over 200 species of flora and diverse medicinal plants.
Wildlife Biodiversity in Sitabani
Sitabani acts as a vital buffer zone, providing a safe corridor for large mammals and a diverse habitat for bird species.
Mammals
- Asiatic Elephant
- Royal Bengal Tiger
- Leopard
- Sambar Deer
- Wild Boar
Avian life
- Great Hornbill
- Emerald Dove
- Red Junglefowl
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Blue-throated Barbet
Safari Timings & Shift Details
| Season | Morning Shift | Evening Shift |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Oct - Jan) | 06:30 AM - 10:00 AM | 01:30 PM - 05:00 PM |
| Summer (Feb - June) | 06:00 AM - 09:30 AM | 02:30 PM - 06:00 PM |
How to Access Sitabani
Sitabani is accessible through the Teda Gate and the Pawalgoarh Gate. Being a buffer zone, it is the only area where one can walk inside the forest under supervision. It is located 12 km from Ramnagar. Visitors can book safaris on the spot or in advance for a more organized trip.