Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is India’s oldest and most celebrated wildlife sanctuary. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was later renamed in honor of Jim Corbett, a British hunter-turned-conservationist whose efforts helped protect India’s magnificent wildlife.
Today, it is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers, offering a thrilling mix of biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Jim Corbett National Park is famous for being the first park to come under Project Tiger, India’s ambitious initiative to protect the endangered Bengal tiger.
With one of the highest tiger densities in the country, Corbett remains a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts hoping to spot these elusive big cats in their natural habitat. Here’s our comprehensive guide to Jim Corbett National Park;
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Overview of Jim Corbett National Park
Located in northern India just northeast of New Delhi, Jim Corbett National Park is a remarkable wildlife sanctuary spanning 201.1 square miles. As part of the sub-Himalayan ecosystem, the park boasts a diverse landscape of ravines, plateaus, ridges, valleys, and waterways, with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 4,000 feet (400 to 1,220 m) above sea level.
The park was the first to be included in India’s Project Tiger Initiative, with an extended buffer zone created specifically to protect its tiger population. Nearly 75% of the park is blanketed in lush deciduous forests featuring peepal, rohini, and mango trees, contributing to a total of 110 tree species.
Grasslands make up an additional 10% of the park’s terrain, and in total, over 485 species of plants thrive within its boundaries. This rich biodiversity, combined with its crucial role in tiger conservation, makes Jim Corbett National Park a vital and captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.
Wildlife in Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett National Park is a haven for wildlife, thanks to its diverse vegetation that supports an incredible range of species. Home to around 50 species of mammals, 25 species of reptiles, and an astonishing 575 species of birds, the park offers a thriving ecosystem where nature flourishes. The skies above are equally lively, with 36 species of dragonflies complementing the vibrant bird population.
Among the park’s most sought-after residents are the elusive Bengal tigers, drawing visitors eager to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures. However, spotting them remains a challenge due to the park’s dense foliage. Alongside tigers, other formidable predators such as leopards, jungle cats, fishing cats, and leopard cats roam the forests.
The park also shelters a variety of herbivores, including elephants, water buffalo, barking deer, sambar deer, chital, hog deer, and even black bears, while smaller creatures like mongoose and rhesus macaques add to the biodiversity. To facilitate tourism and wildlife safaris, Jim Corbett National Park is divided into six key zones, each offering a distinct experience.
Bijrani Safari Zone is famous for its scenic grasslands and easy accessibility from Ramnagar. Jhirna Safari Zone, open year-round, provides another excellent wildlife-watching opportunity. The Dhela Safari Zone, added to the tiger reserve in 2014, boasts rich biodiversity and is also accessible throughout the year.
The vast and diverse Dhikala Zone is considered the best for wildlife sightings, making an overnight stay a must for serious nature enthusiasts. Birdwatchers, on the other hand, will find paradise in the Durga Devi Zone, known for its avian diversity. Lastly, the Sitabani Buffer Zone, though outside the official tiger reserve, captivates visitors with its tranquil natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett National Park
The ideal time to explore Jim Corbett National Park is during the winter months (from November to February). During the window, the weather is refreshingly cool and the skies remain clear. This season also provides the perfect conditions for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly those hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger.
With the drop in temperature, tigers become more active during the day, often venturing into open spaces to bask in the sun. Also, winter transforms the park into a haven for birdwatchers, as numerous migratory birds arrive, adding vibrant colors and melodies to the landscape.
Getting to Jim Corbett National Park
Reaching Jim Corbett National Park is a straightforward journey, with Ramnagar serving as the primary gateway. This small but well-connected town links seamlessly to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Moradabad, Nainital, and Bareilly via both road and rail networks. Once you arrive in Ramnagar, the national park is just a short 15-kilometer drive away, typically taking about half an hour.
For those traveling by road, Ramnagar boasts a well-maintained highway system, making it easily accessible. Corbett National Park lies about 260 kilometers from Delhi. Uttarakhand’s state transport services operate regular buses from cities like Delhi, Moradabad, Haldwani, and Nainital, many of which go directly to Corbett.
The train is another means to get to the park, with direct trains running from Delhi. Several options, including the Ranikhet Express, Corbett Link Express, and Kathgodam Express, run services to Ramnagar.
Other Activities in Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett National Park offers a range of experiences that immerse visitors in both its rich wildlife and natural beauty. The most popular activity is a game drive, where travelers venture deep into the park in search of its diverse wildlife. These safaris provide the best chance to spot the park’s iconic species, from tigers to elephants, in their natural habitat.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, a guided walking safari allows visitors to explore the jungle on foot under the supervision of a registered park guide. While this offers a closer connection to nature, animal sightings tend to be more frequent from vehicles.
Beyond wildlife, the park is home to other stunning attractions, such as Corbett Falls, a 66-foot (20-meter) cascade hidden within the dense forest. The only sound breaking the jungle’s tranquility is the rush of water, making it a peaceful retreat.
For a cultural touch, Garjia Devi Temple sits along the banks of the Kosi River, attracting both pilgrims and visitors interested in the region’s heritage. Meanwhile, Kalagarh Dam, a striking man-made structure, serves as a paradise for birdwatchers, offering glimpses of local and migratory birds near its waters.
Park Fees in Jim Corbett National Park
The entry fees for Jim Corbett National Park depend on several factors, including the type of safari chosen, nationality, and eligibility for discounts. For those opting for a jeep safari, Indian visitors can book an entire jeep for INR 7,500 ($90). The jeep accommodates up to six adults and two children aged 5–12.
Foreign nationals pay INR 15,000 ($180) for the same. A more budget-friendly option is the canter safari, a shared vehicle experience, costing INR 1,500 ($18) per Indian visitor and INR 3,000 ($36) for foreign tourists. For a more immersive jungle experience, the elephant safari is available at INR 500 ($6) for Indian nationals and INR 1,500 ($18) for foreigners.
FAQs
Why Jim Corbett National Park is famous?
Jim Corbett National Park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Named after the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett, the park holds a special place in India’s conservation history. It is particularly famous for its thriving tiger population, boasting the highest number of these majestic big cats among all national parks in India.
How many tigers are in Jim Corbett?
Jim Corbett National Park boasts the largest population of tigers among all single tiger reserves in India, with an impressive count of 260. This makes it one of the best destinations for wildlife enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic Bengal tiger in its natural habitat.
Conclusion
Jim Corbett National Park is not just a wildlife destination—it is a testament to India’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature photographer, or simply seeking adventure, Corbett promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the wild.
