Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park – A Wildlife Haven in Uttarakhand

Jim Corbett National Park, established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, is India’s first national park and a cornerstone of wildlife conservation. Nestled in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, this park spans over 1,318.54 sq km, including 520 sq km of core area and 798 sq km of buffer zone. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, it is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Key Highlights

• Location: Ramnagar, Nainital District, Uttarakhand

• Established: 1936

• Area: 1,318.54 sq km (Core: 520 sq km; Buffer: 798 sq km)

• Best Time to Visit: November to June

• Famous For: Bengal tigers, diverse flora and fauna, bird watching, eco-tourism

Flora and Fauna

 

Wildlife

Jim Corbett National Park shelters a wide array of wildlife species:

• Mammals: Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, leopard, sloth bear, sambar deer, barking deer, hog deer, chital, and more

• Birds: Over 650 species including crested serpent eagle, Indian paradise flycatcher, greater coucal, blossom-headed parakeet

• Reptiles: Indian python, king cobra, gharial, marsh crocodile

• Aquatic Life: Mahseer fish and other freshwater species in the Ramganga River

Flora

The park’s vegetation features:

• Deciduous Forests: Dominated by Sal, Khair, and Sissoo trees

• Grasslands: Vast grasslands in Dhikala attract both herbivores and predators

• Riverine Belts: Bamboo and elephant grass thrive along the riverbanks

Safari Zones and Experiences

Jim Corbett National Park is divided into multiple safari zones, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife encounters:

1. Dhikala Zone

   • Access: Canter safari; Jeep safari with night stay

   • Highlights: Grasslands, frequent tiger sightings, rich birdlife

2. Bijrani Zone

   • Access: Jeep safari

   • Highlights: Dense forests, open meadows, diverse species

3. Jhirna Zone

   • Access: Jeep safari (open year-round)

   • Highlights: Sightings of sloth bears, elephants

4. Dhela Zone

   • Access: Jeep safari (open year-round)

   • Highlights: Mixed forests, grasslands, varied fauna

5. Durga Devi Zone

   • Access: Jeep safari

   • Highlights: Hilly terrain, excellent for birdwatching

6. Garjiya Zone

   • Access: Jeep safari

   • Highlights: Scenic beauty, rich biodiversity

7. Phanto Zone

   • Access: Jeep safari

   • Highlights: Tranquil zone with tiger sighting potential

8. Sitabani Zone

   • Access: Jeep safari

   • Highlights: Ideal for bird watching and nature walks

Accommodation Options

Visitors can stay in:

• Forest Rest Houses: Available at Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Gairal, Khinnanauli, and Sarapduli

• Private Resorts/Hotels: Numerous options near Ramnagar with various amenities

Activities and Attractions

• Wildlife Safaris: Jeep and canter safaris across zones

• Bird Watching: Spot over 650 bird species

• Nature Walks & Treks: Especially in buffer zones like Sitabani

• River Rafting: Seasonal activity on the Kosi River

• Camping: Designated areas with permits

• Corbett Waterfall: Ideal for picnics and leisure

• Garjiya Devi Temple: Located on the Kosi Riverbank

• Corbett Museum: In Kaladhungi, showcasing Jim Corbett’s legacy

Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett National Park

For Tiger Sightings (March – June)

• Season: Summer

• Temperature: 25°C to 40°C

• Why Visit: High chance of spotting tigers near water sources

• Open Zones: Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela

For Bird Watching & Pleasant Weather (November – February)

• Season: Winter

• Temperature: 5°C to 25°C

• Why Visit: Ideal for birdwatching and safaris

• Bonus: Great photography opportunities with clear skies

Monsoon Season (July – October)

• Temperature: 20°C to 35°C

• Why Avoid:

  • Dhikala and Bijrani closed due to rains

  • Slippery roads and landslide risks

• However: Jhirna and Dhela zones remain open and lush

How to Reach Jim Corbett National Park

The main entry point is Ramnagar, easily accessible from major cities:

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (50 km from Ramnagar)

• From Airport: Taxis and buses available

By Train

• Nearest Station: Ramnagar Railway Station

• Popular Trains:

  • Ranikhet Express (from Delhi)

  • Corbett Park Link Express

  • Kathgodam Express (to Kathgodam, 60 km away)

By Road

• From Delhi: ~260 km (6–7 hours via NH9)

• From Nainital: ~65 km

• From Dehradun: ~240 km

• From Lucknow: ~450 km

• Options:

  • Private cabs or self-drive

  • Buses from Delhi (ISBT Anand Vihar) to Ramnagar

Conservation Efforts

• Project Tiger: Corbett was among the first reserves under this flagship initiative launched in 1973

• Biodiversity Hotspot: Over 50 mammal species, 650+ bird species, and many reptiles and amphibians

Travel Tips

• Permits: Book in advance, especially for core zones

• Guides: Always opt for certified nature guides

• Clothing: Wear earth-tone clothes to blend with surroundings

• Safety: Keep distance from animals; don’t feed them

• Cleanliness: Carry back your waste—help preserve the ecosystem