Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand 🐅🌿

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in to closest proximity of Ramnagar (Nainital) is the majestic Jim Corbett National Park. Home to a variety of flora and fauna, the park is famous for its wild population of Tigers, Leopards and Elephants. Corbett national park was established in 1936, as the Hailey National Park (named in the honor of Sir Malcolm Hailey, then governor of the United Provinces). After independence, the name was changed to Ramganga National Park in 1952 but was finally changed to Jim Corbett National Park in 1957, named after the legendary hunter, naturalist-turned-author and photographer who had helped in setting up the park and demarcating its boundaries. India’s first national park and the first sanctuary to come under Project Tiger, Corbett supports a variety of vegetation making it the ideal habitat for the Tiger and its prey. With the help of the World Wildlife Fund, Project Tiger was launched in Corbett National Park in 1973 and this park was one of the first such tiger reserves in the country.

Corbett is a haven for Tigers as well as its prey, which include four kinds of Deer, Wild Boar and some lesser-known animals. Leopards are mostly found in the hilly areas of the park. Some nocturnal cats found here are the Leopard Cat, Jungle Cat and Fishing Cat. Sloth Bear is found in the lower regions of the park while the Himalayan Black Bear is seen in the higher hills only. The Dole or Wild Dog, though they can be seen in the southern areas of the park along with the Jackal.

Other Attractions In Corbett Park

Ramnagar : Situated in the rich farm belt of Terai, on the southeastern fringes of the great forests, the busy market town of Ramnagar is the main administrative centre for Corbett National Park and Project Tiger. Ramnagar makes a fishing base camp. At Lohachaur, 15-kms north along the River Kosi, good anglers are in with a chance of landing the legendary Mahseer, a redoubtable battling River Carp. Permits to have a go must be sought from the Project Tiger office in Ramnagar; most resorts also arrange all inclusive fishing trips.

Wildlife Viewing : Chital, Sambar, and various other Deer species find refuge in the Savannah grasslands known as the Maidan, behind the campsite to the south, and Tigers are occasionally drawn in looking for prey. Two hour elephant rides, explore this sea of grass, rarely penetrating far into the deep jungles beyond; try to convince your Mahout or Elephant driver to venture in, as they can be quite magical. Come at dusk or dawn; in the heat of the day you probably won’t come across much more than deer among the tall grass. Tiger-sightings are few and far between, but you may be rewarded with fresh pug marks.

Jeep Safari in Corbett : Jeeps Safari, is the most convenient way to travel within Corbett national park, and can be rented for the park trips from Ramnagar, from the KMVN Tourist Lodge and other travel agencies. One bus each day goes to Dikhala from Ramnagar, stopping at the Forest Rest houses en route. Banking and other important tourist facilities are available at Ramnagar.

Main Attractions

• 🐯 Wildlife Safari: Jeep & elephant safaris to spot tigers, leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.
• 🌳 Dhikala Zone: Heart of the park, famous for tiger sightings and large herds of animals.
• 🏛️ Jim Corbett Museum: Showcases Jim Corbett’s life, writings, and conservation legacy.
• 🕉️ Garjiya Devi Temple: Riverside temple on the Kosi River, scenic and spiritual.
• 🐦 Bird Watching & Nature Trails: Spot over 600 species of birds and explore forest trails.

Best Time to Visit

• 🌞 November – June: Ideal for safaris, photography, and sightseeing
• 🌧️ July – September: Park closed due to monsoon rains

Why Visit Jim Corbett?

• Witness majestic Royal Bengal Tigers in the wild
• Explore forests, rivers, waterfalls, and grasslands
• Perfect for wildlife photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers
• Learn about wildlife conservation and the legacy of Jim Corbett
• Enjoy a mix of spirituality, adventure, and eco-tourism

Nearby Destinations from Jim Corbett National Park

1. Ramnagar

• Distance: 7 km from the park entrance
• Description: Ramnagar is the gateway town to Jim Corbett National Park. It is home to the Jim Corbett Museum, local markets, and various accommodation options. Visitors can explore the town’s heritage, enjoy local cuisine, and start their safaris from here.

2. Nainital

• Distance: 65 km
• Description: Nainital is a famous hill station known for Naini Lake, cable cars, scenic viewpoints, and shopping markets. Tourists can enjoy boating, trekking, and explore attractions like Naina Devi Temple, Snow View Point, and The Mall Road.

3. Ranikhet

• Distance: 70 km
• Description: A serene hill station surrounded by pine and oak forests. Ranikhet offers meadows, trekking trails, and colonial-era architecture. It is ideal for nature walks and panoramic views of the Himalayas.

4. Almora

• Distance: 90 km
• Description: Known as the cultural capital of Kumaon, Almora is famous for panoramic Himalayan views, handicrafts, local cuisine, and temples. Popular spots include Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Bright End Corner, and Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary nearby.

5. Garjiya Devi Temple

• Distance: 7–10 km
• Description: A riverside temple located on the Kosi River, dedicated to Goddess Garjiya Devi. The temple attracts devotees and tourists alike, offering a mix of spiritual experience and scenic beauty.

6. Bhimtal

• Distance: 70 km
• Description: A beautiful hill station featuring Bhimtal Lake, boating facilities, and trekking trails. The town is less crowded than Nainital, making it a peaceful retreat.

7. Sat Tal (Seven Lakes)

• Distance: 80 km
• Description: A cluster of seven freshwater lakes surrounded by dense forests. Ideal for boating, trekking, and nature photography, Sat Tal is perfect for a day trip from Jim Corbett.

8. Kausani

• Distance: 120 km
• Description: Known as the “Switzerland of India,” Kausani offers stunning views of Trisul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli peaks, tea gardens, and the Anasakti Ashram, a place associated with Mahatma Gandhi.