Sonanadi Forest Lodge / Rest House / Zone (Jim Corbett National Park)

Sonanadi Sanctuary spans an impressive 301.18 square kilometers of prime forests within the Shiwalik Terai biotic province. The name "Sonanadi" translates to "river of gold," a nod to the gold panning that once took place in the river before the area was designated as a sanctuary. The sanctuary is nourished by the perennial streams of Palain and Mandal. Historically, it was carved out of the Kalagarh Forest Division and became part of Project Tiger in 1991, as well as Project Elephant. Notably, there are no villages within the sanctuary, allowing the dense sal forests and rich bamboo clusters to thrive, teeming with diverse wildlife.

The Sonanadi range, located within the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary, is a segment of the Corbett National Park. This area has been developed as a natural habitat for various wildlife species, including the Asiatic elephant, tigers, cheetals, sambhars, leopards, and numerous reptiles. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to observe over 550 species of birds in their natural habitat.

For those wishing to stay overnight, the Sonanadi range offers several Forest Rest Houses, including Lohachaur, Rithuadhab, and Halduparao. Safari options, such as jeep and elephant safaris, are available for visitors to experience the wildlife of Sonanadi Range up close. It is advisable for tourists to pre-book entry tickets for safaris at the Ramnagar office. The Sonanadi Zone is open to visitors from October 15 to June 15, closing during the monsoon season. Multiple safaris operate throughout the day in this zone.

As the only zone in Jim Corbett where tourists can walk on foot, the Sonanadi zone is rich in biodiversity, including various non-venomous snake species. Popular mammals in the region include tigers, leopards, and elephants. Tourists can enjoy wildlife safaris on jeeps around the Sonanadi zone, observing the wild inhabitants up close while reveling in the enchanting beauty of the lush greenery and nature.