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The Phato and Hathidagar tourism zones, which have been closed for three months, will reopen to tourists on October 1. Tourists can make online bookings for safaris starting September 21—15 days in advance. These zones, falling under the Tarai West Forest Division, have been closed to visitors since June 30 due to the monsoon season.
During the rains, water flow in the forest’s rivers and streams increases, and safari routes deteriorate; consequently, Gypsy safaris and overnight stay facilities are suspended from July through September. The Forest Department has decided to reopen both tourism zones starting October 1.
In the Phato tourism zone, Gypsy safari and overnight stay facilities will be available to tourists from October 1, with online bookings opening on September 21. Tourists can make advance reservations via the department’s website, ‘phatoecozone.in’. These tourism areas, which had been shut for three months, will once again bustle with the activity of visitors.
The reopening of these two zones has brought cheer to local Gypsy drivers, guides, resort owners, and those in the hotel industry, as it will boost tourism activities in the region. Additionally, the Bijrani tourism zone in Corbett will also open to tourists for Gypsy safaris starting October 15.
