About Kalagarh
Located on the southwestern boundary of Pauri Garhwal bordering the Terai plains, Kalagarh is best known for the monumental Ramganga Dam (Kalagarh Dam) constructed in 1974. The resulting reservoir forms an immense inland waterbody within the Corbett Tiger Reserve and Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary. Kalagarh’s wetlands, dense sal woodlands, and open grasslands provide a sanctuary for wild Asian elephant herds, Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, otters, marsh crocodiles, and hundreds of migratory waterfowl.
Top Highlights & Key Attractions
Ramganga Dam (Kalagarh Dam)
Colossal 128-meter rock-fill dam creating a vast lake inside the national park.
Corbett & Sonanadi Gateway
Entry gates to the quiet, less-crowded southern safari zones of Corbett Tiger Reserve.
Elephant Corridors
Year-round sightings of Asian elephant herds bathing and grazing along the reservoir banks.
Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Winter haven for thousands of migratory ducks, storks, and eagles congregating around the lake.
How to Reach Kalagarh
Directly motorable from Delhi (230 km, ~5 hours) via Moradabad, Kashipur, and Afzalgarh. Kotdwar is 45 km to the north.
Najibabad Railway Station (40 km) or Kotdwar (45 km).
Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun (145 km) or Delhi IGI (240 km).
Where to Stay in Kalagarh
Forest rest houses inside the reserve (advance permit required via corbettonline.uk.gov.in) and riverside eco-resorts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which national park is Kalagarh part of?
Kalagarh is located at the southern periphery of Jim Corbett National Park and Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary.
What is the best time for wildlife safaris in Kalagarh?
November to April offers pleasant weather and prime wildlife sightings around the dam reservoir.