From Ashram to the Tiger's New Home: The Phato Tourism Zone Guide
Are you a wildlife enthusiast in Ashram who thinks they have "seen it all" in Jim Corbett? Have you visited Dhikala and Bijrani and are looking for something revitalizing?
Pack your bags, because the Phato Tourism Zone is calling.
Opened recently in 2022, Phato has taken the wildlife community by storm. For residents coming from Ashram, Phato offers a chance to explore a hidden forest that hasn't been overrun by tourism yet. The stories of tiger sightings here are becoming legendary.
At Corbett Step, we are delighted to introduce our special Phato packages for guests traveling from Ashram.
Why Ashram Visitors Are Choosing Phato
- The Probability: It is simple math. High tiger population + dense forest + fewer tourists = Stunning sightings. For someone coming all the way from Ashram, this maximizes the value of your trip.
- The Elevated Point: Phato has a beautiful Tree House where you can take a breather. It’s a great spot for stills to show your friends back in Ashram.
- The Ambience: Phato is incredibly lush. The light filtering through the dense Sal trees creates a ethereal atmosphere, perfect for photographers carrying heavy lenses from Ashram.
Mapping Your Phato Trip from Ashram
Getting to a new zone can be challenging if you don't know the local geography. Here is how we counsel you:
Step 1: Permit Booking with Corbett Step
The booking system for Phato is different from the other zones.
- The Challenge: It falls under the Terai West Division, not the main CTR administration.
- Our Solution: You don't need to worry about which website to visit. Just send your details from Ashram to Corbett Step. We know exactly where and how to book it.
Step 2: The Logistics
- Distance: Phato is a bit further from Ramnagar (approx 25km).
- Transport: If you are coming by train to Ramnagar from Ashram, we will arrange a taxi to take you to your resort. On the safari day, our Licensed Gypsy will pick you up.
Step 3: The Stay
We recommend staying in resorts on the Kashipur Road or Ramnagar City to be closer to the Phato entry gate. This saves you travel time in the morning compared to staying in the distant Dhikuli belt.
Standard Itinerary for Ashram Guests
- Day 1: Arrival & Acclimatization
Depart Ashram and arrive in Ramnagar. Check-in to your resort. Enjoy the facilities and prepare for an early morning game drive. - Day 2: The Phato Safari Adventure
Pick up by our Gypsy. Enter the Phato Gate. Spend 3 hours in the thick jungle. Look for the famous tigress of Phato who is often seen with her cubs. Stop at the Tree House to stretch your legs. - Day 3: Return to Ashram
Breakfast and Check-out. Drive back to Ashram with stories of the "New Frontier."
Required Tips for Ashram Travelers
- Book in Advance: Just because it is new doesn't mean it's empty. Phato is selling out as fast as Bijrani now. Book 30 days prior to leaving Ashram.
- Dust Protection: The track to Phato can be dusty. If you are traveling from Ashram, bring a scarf and sunglasses.
- Camera Ready: Phato is beautiful. Even if you don't see a tiger, the forest itself is worth preserving.
Why Choose Corbett Step?
- We Know the Terrain: Phato is new for tourists, but not for us. Our drivers know the creeks where the tigers hang out.
- Single Window Service: We handle permits, gypsies, and hotels. You just handle the travel from Ashram.
- Customer Support: We are available at all times to answer your queries.
FAQs from Ashram Wildlifers
Q: Is Phato better than Sitabani?
A: Yes, for tigers. Sitabani is a buffer zone famous for birds and landscapes. Phato is a dedicated tourism zone with a much higher density of predators.
Q: Can we stay inside Phato?
A: There is a Forest Rest House, but booking it is extremely tough. We usually recommend staying in comfortable resorts outside.
Q: Is it safe for kids traveling from Ashram?
A: Yes. The Tree House area is fenced, and the safaris are conducted with strict safety protocols.
Ready to Go to Explore the Unknown?
The tigers of Phato are waiting to be discovered. Be the first among your friends in Ashram to visit this untamed landscape.
Corbett Step makes it easy.
📍 Plan your Phato Safari: corbettstep.com
