About the Park

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is India’s oldest and one of its most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was later renamed in honor of Jim Corbett, the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist.

Spanning over 1,318 sq km, Corbett is part of the Terai Arc Landscape and plays a major role in Project Tiger, launched here in 1973.

The park’s charm lies in its mix of dense sal forests, grasslands, rivers, and hills, making it one of the most scenic tiger habitats in India.

Wildlife & Habitat

Corbett’s diverse landscape supports an incredible range of species:

  • Key Species: Bengal tiger, leopard, Asian elephant, sloth bear, wild boar, sambar deer, and gharial.
  • Birds: Over 600 bird species – including crested serpent eagles, hornbills, and kingfishers – making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
  • Habitat: The park’s terrain varies from riverine belts and grasslands to hilly ridges, dominated by sal and chir pine forests.

This mix of habitats supports both predator and prey, creating a thriving ecosystem at the base of the Himalayas.

Safari Experience

Exploring Corbett is best done through its guided safaris, which take you deep into tiger country:

  • Safari Types: Jeep Safari, Canter Safari, and Elephant Safari (limited areas).
  • Safari Zones: The park has six main zones – Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, Durga Devi, and Garjiya.
    • Dhikala Zone: Famous for tigers, elephants, and overnight forest lodges.
    • Bijrani Zone: Ideal for scenic safaris and photography.
    • Jhirna & Dhela Zones: Open year-round; good for birding and herbivore sightings.
  • Timings:
    • Morning Safari: 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM
    • Evening Safari: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM (timings vary seasonally)
  • Booking: Safari permits can be booked online via the Uttarakhand Forest Department website or at authorized counters in Ramnagar.

Best Time to Visit

  • Open Season: Mid-November to mid-June.
  • Best Months: February to April for tiger sightings and mild weather.
  • Summer (May – June): Great for wildlife near water sources, though temperatures can get high.
  • Monsoon (July – October): Most zones close due to rain, except Jhirna and Dhela.
  • Winter (November – January): Cool mornings and clear skies – perfect for birdwatching and family trips.

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (85 km).
  • Nearest Railway Station: Ramnagar (12 km) – directly connected to Delhi.
  • By Road: Corbett is a 6-hour drive (around 250 km) from Delhi, via Moradabad and Kashipur.

Where to Stay

  • Inside the Park:
    • Dhikala Forest Lodge: The only accommodation inside the core zone, offering a true jungle experience.
  • Outside the Park (Ramnagar & Nearby):
    • Taj Corbett Resort & Spa: Luxury stay on the banks of the Kosi River.
    • Aahana Resort: Eco-friendly retreat known for sustainability.
    • The Riverview Retreat: Family-friendly and close to Bijrani Gate.
    • Several budget lodges and forest rest houses are available near entry gates.

Travel Tips / Park Rules

  • Carry original photo ID – it’s mandatory for entry.
  • Book safaris early, especially during peak season.
  • Remain quiet and seated during safaris.
  • Avoid bright clothes and perfumes.
  • Keep a safe distance from animals, never feed or approach them.
  • Follow the guide’s instructions at all times.
  • No plastic bottles or litter inside the park.

Packing List

  • Light cotton clothes (neutral colors)
  • Warm layers for winter mornings
  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Binoculars and camera
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • ID proof and printed permits
  • Water bottle and light snacks

Visitor Statistics

Jim Corbett National Park welcomes about 600,000 to 700,000 visitors each year, making it one of India’s most visited tiger reserves.

Tourism is concentrated in the Dhikala and Bijrani zones, but newer zones like Dhela have helped distribute crowds more evenly.

Conservation & Responsible Travel

Corbett has been central to India’s tiger conservation success, hosting one of the highest tiger densities in the world.

To protect its fragile ecosystem:

  • Support eco-friendly resorts that reduce plastic and use solar energy.
  • Respect park rules and avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Use refillable water bottles instead of single-use plastics.
  • Participate in local community-run tours that promote conservation awareness.
  • Learn about Jim Corbett’s legacy – his shift from hunter to protector inspires every visit.