Enjoy Jungle Safari At Jim Corbett National Park, located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India, is one of the oldest and most renowned national parks in the country. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was later renamed in honor of the famous British hunter-turned-conservationist, Jim Corbett. Spanning over 520 square kilometers, the park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Renowned for its population of Bengal tigers, Corbett National Park is a vital stronghold for this endangered species. Besides tigers, the park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including leopards, elephants, deer, wild boars, and over 600 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
The park offers various safari options for visitors to explore its rich biodiversity. Jeep safaris are the most popular, allowing tourists to traverse through different zones of the park and catch glimpses of its inhabitants. Additionally, elephant safaris provide a unique and up-close experience with the wildlife.
Apart from wildlife viewing, the park also offers opportunities for nature walks, birdwatching, and camping. Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, and Durgadevi are some of the prominent zones within the park, each offering distinct landscapes and wildlife experiences.
With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history, Jim Corbett National Park continues to captivate visitors from around the world, contributing significantly to wildlife conservation efforts in India.
Safaris that are open throughout the year
Dhikala Zone: This zone is the largest and most popular among tourists. Dhikala offers jeep safaris as well as elephant safaris. However, the elephant safaris are subject to availability and may not be operational throughout the year.
Bijrani Zone: Another prominent safari zone in Jim Corbett National Park, Bijrani offers jeep safaris for wildlife enthusiasts. This zone is known for its diverse flora and fauna.
Jhirna Zone: Jhirna is open throughout the year and offers jeep safaris. It’s a great place to spot leopards and deer species.
Durga Devi Zone: This zone is less frequented by tourists but offers a unique safari experience. It’s known for its birdwatching opportunities.
Sitabani Buffer Zone: Sitabani is a part of the Corbett Tiger Reserve but lies outside the core area. It offers jeep safaris and is open throughout the year Enjoy Jungle Safari At Jim Corbett National Park.
Top travel attractions you must explore in Jim Corbett
Jim Corbett National Park, one of India’s oldest national parks, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the attractions and activities you must explore while visiting Jim Corbett:
Wildlife Safari: Embark on an exciting wildlife safari to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna. You can choose between Jeep safaris, elephant safaris (subject to availability), or canter safaris. The park is home to various species, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and numerous bird species.
Dhikala Zone: Dhikala is one of the most popular zones in Jim Corbett National Park. It offers breathtaking landscapes and excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. The zone is known for its diverse habitats, including grasslands, dense forests, and riverine belts.
Corbett Museum: Visit the Corbett Museum, located at Kaladhungi, which was once the home of Jim Corbett, the renowned hunter, conservationist, and author after whom the park is named. The museum showcases his personal belongings, photographs, and exhibits related to the park’s history and wildlife conservation efforts Enjoy Jungle Safari At Jim Corbett National Park.
Garjia Temple: Pay a visit to Garjia Devi Temple, situated on the banks of the Kosi River. This temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati attracts devotees and tourists alike, especially during the Kartik Poornima festival.
Corbett Falls: Take a scenic drive to Corbett Falls, a picturesque waterfall located amidst dense forests. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed picnic or to simply enjoy the tranquility of nature.
River Rafting: For adventure enthusiasts, river rafting in the Kosi River near Jim Corbett National Park is a thrilling experience. The river offers varying grades of rapids, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
Bird Watching: Jim Corbett National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 600 species of birds recorded in the region. Explore the park’s diverse habitats, including riverbanks, grasslands, and forests, to spot a wide variety of bird species.
Nature Walks and Jungle Treks: Join guided nature walks or jungle treks within the park to explore its wilderness up close. Experienced naturalists and guides lead these walks, providing insights into the park’s ecology, flora, and fauna Enjoy Jungle Safari At Jim Corbett National Park.
Remember to follow all park regulations and guidelines during your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while preserving the park’s natural heritage.
Make your Corbett journey thrilling with adventure activities
Enjoy Jungle Safari At Jim Corbett National Park If you’re looking to make your journey to Corbett even more thrilling with adventure activities, here are some exciting options to consider:
River Rafting: Experience the adrenaline rush of navigating through the rapids of the Kosi River with river rafting. Several operators offer guided rafting trips suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
Rappelling and Rock Climbing: Test your skills and conquer the rugged terrain around Corbett with rappelling and rock climbing activities. Trained instructors and guides provide equipment and ensure safety during these adventures.
Night Safari: Embark on a unique nocturnal adventure with a night safari. Explore the park’s wilderness under the moonlight and spot elusive nocturnal creatures such as owls, nightjars, and maybe even big cats on the prowl Enjoy Jungle Safari At Jim Corbett National Park.
Zip Lining: Soar through the lush green canopy of Corbett’s forests with exhilarating zip-lining adventures. Enjoy panoramic views of the landscape as you glide from one platform to another.
Hot Air Ballooning: Get a bird’s-eye view of Jim Corbett National Park and its surroundings with a hot air balloon ride. Experience the tranquility of floating above the treetops and spotting wildlife from a unique perspective.
Cycling Tours: Explore the outskirts of Corbett and nearby villages on two wheels with guided cycling tours. Pedal through scenic trails, interact with locals, and immerse yourself in the region’s culture and natural beauty Enjoy Jungle Safari At Jim Corbett National Park.
Nature Photography Expeditions: Capture the beauty of Corbett’s landscapes, wildlife, and birdlife with nature photography expeditions. Join expert photographers who provide guidance on composition, lighting, and wildlife photography techniques.
Trekking: Embark on trekking expeditions to explore the rugged terrain and hidden gems of the Corbett landscape. Trekking routes vary in difficulty, offering options for both novice trekkers and seasoned adventurers.
Campfire and Night Camping: Unwind after a day of adventure with a campfire under the starlit sky. Enjoy storytelling, music, and delicious local cuisine while camping in designated areas within or near the park.
Wildlife Conservation Experiences: Get involved in wildlife conservation efforts by participating in activities such as tree planting, wildlife monitoring, or volunteering with local conservation organizations.
Remember to prioritize safety and follow all instructions provided by guides and instructors to ensure a memorable and safe adventure in Jim Corbett National Park.
Best time to visit Jim Corbett for a joyous wildlife vacation
The best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park for a joyous wildlife vacation is during the winter months from November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant with cool temperatures, making it ideal for wildlife safaris and outdoor activities. The dry season also ensures better visibility of wildlife as they gather around water sources, increasing your chances of spotting tigers, elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species.
Additionally, visiting during the winter months allows you to explore the park without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rainfall, enhancing your overall experience. It’s advisable to plan your trip in advance and book safari permits and accommodations well ahead of time, especially during peak tourist season.
However, if you prefer lush greenery and vibrant flora, the monsoon season (July to September) offers a unique experience with lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Keep in mind that some areas of the park may be inaccessible during this time due to heavy rainfall and potential flooding Enjoy Jungle Safari At Jim Corbett National Park.
How to reach Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand, India, can be reached by various modes of transportation:
By Air: The nearest airport to Jim Corbett National Park is Pantnagar Airport (IATA: PGH), located approximately 83 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach the national park.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Jim Corbett National Park is Ramnagar Railway Station (station code: RMR), which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Varanasi. Ramnagar Railway Station is situated around 12 kilometers from the park entrance. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach your accommodation within the park.
By Road: Jim Corbett National Park is well-connected by road network to major cities and towns in Uttarakhand and neighboring states. You can drive to the park from cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Dehradun. The park has several entry gates, and the most commonly used entry gate for visitors is the Ramnagar Gate. National Highway 309 connects Ramnagar to other major cities.
By Bus: Regular bus services operate from major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Dehradun to Ramnagar, the nearest town to Jim Corbett National Park. From Ramnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach the park entrance Enjoy Jungle Safari At Jim Corbett National Park.
Once you reach Jim Corbett National Park, you can arrange for transportation within the park through safari jeeps or by hiring local taxis for sightseeing and transfers. It’s advisable to check the availability of transportation options and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
