Gairal Forest Rest House is another popular accommodation facility located in the Dhikala Zone of Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, India. It is situated in a picturesque location amidst the lush green forests and offers a tranquil setting for visitors.
Gairal Forest Rest House is known for its serene atmosphere and its proximity to wildlife-rich areas within the national park. It provides an opportunity for visitors to experience the wilderness and observe the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Similar to Dhikala Forest Rest House, Gairal offers basic yet comfortable accommodation options. The rooms are equipped with essential amenities, including beds, tables, and chairs. However, please note that the facilities are relatively simple to maintain the natural ambiance of the surroundings.
The rest house is managed by the forest department, and reservations need to be made in advance through the official website or by contacting the park authorities directly. It is advisable to check the availability and make bookings well in advance, as Gairal Forest Rest House is a sought-after accommodation option in the Dhikala Zone.
Staying at Gairal Forest Rest House allows visitors to engage in various activities such as jeep safaris, nature walks, and birdwatching. The region is known for its rich wildlife, including tigers, elephants, deer, and a wide variety of bird species.
Gairal Forest Rest House offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and immerse oneself in the beauty of Jim Corbett National Park. It provides an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Accommodation and Amenities
Gairal Forest Rest House has two different room blocks for guest Accommodation, Old FRH which came in 1903 during the British era and new FRH which is comparatively quite new.
There are two interconnected rooms at the Old Forest Rest House block of Gairal Forest Rest House. These two interconnected rooms open in different directions and are connected by a common dining space each room has a private attached washroom which has western fittings and a running water facility. One room offers a river view while the opposite room offers a forest view.
In the adjoining compound forest department staff stays who keep a close watch on wildlife and guests who do not honour the house rules of the forest rest house. Their presence in adjoining compounds gives an extra feeling of security to travellers. This rest house has hosted solo female travellers, families, groups in fact all kind of travelers who have interest in wildlife visit this beautiful place.
In New Forest Rest House block there are total 04 double rooms and one 8 bed dormitory for staying.All rooms have twin beds. These all rooms are on ground floor which means guest will need to climb only two steps to access their rooms. This well built pukka Accommodation ensures guest their complete safety.
For third person one extra bed can be laid out. Door and windows are placed at such position so that it ensures cross ventilation feature in each room. There is no fan or air conditioner in rooms. In fact electricity is supplied for limited hours in evening by solar powered inverters,provided these inverters are charged enough which sometimes becomes difficult during cloudy days in winter.
Between 15th November to 15th March, weather remains cold so it omits the need of fan or air conditioner in rooms. From 15th March onward as the mercury rises guest may need fan in mid afternoon for few hours that is also when guest are staying at forest rest house and not going on safari.
In addition door and windows also have mosquito net. Size of rooms is good enough to accommodate three persons at a time. All rooms have attached neat and clean washrooms. These big washrooms are equipped with mirror, western toilet seat, wash basin, bucket ,mug. Hot water in rooms is offered from a common tap. White towel and toiletries are available at guest service, still if guest have liking for any particular brand of soap or shampoo then do not forget to carry same. Last but not least carry a moisturiser in winter and sunscreen in summer.
Canteen and Food
Gairal Forest Rest House has one small canteen and one dining room where 10-15 people can sit comfortably and have meals. Guests have the option to have breakfast or lunch on an open lawn which is next to the dining room from here guests can also enjoy the spectacular view of the Ramganga river and forest. This canteen is operated by Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam and serves only veg meals to its resident and visiting guests. For breakfast they normally serve tea, coffee, bread, butter, jam and parathas and for lunch and dinner at least one vegetable dish, lentil, rice and roti. To add more flavour guests can carry fruits, and pickles from outside. During the day canteen also take order for noodles, omelette with tea, and coffee at a very reasonable price. Consumption of any meat or fish or liquor is strictly prohibited while staying at Gairal Forest rest house in Jim Corbett national park.
All staff at the canteen and Gairal forest rest house are local from the nearest village and very caring.
Best Time to Visit
Gairal Rest House remains open from November 15 to June 15.
