Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park is one of India’s forest treasures. Situated in Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett is Asia’s first national park. This national park is a beautiful site, renowned for its abundance of greenery, the thriving plant, animal, and bird life, and the existence of the Kosi and Ramganga rivers. Corbett National Park welcomes everyone to explore its breathtaking vistas. The Corbett Tiger Reserve provides visitors with a wide range of activities. During their visit, tourists have various options, including river rafting, fishing, angling, and jungle excursions. Due to the biodiversity, summer and winter are the ideal seasons to visit Jim Corbett National Park.

Quick Fact
The name of Jim Corbett National Park has changed three times, which is the most intriguing aspect of it. First, it was named Hailey National Park in 1936. Then, it was renamed as Ramganga National Park after India’s Independence in 1947. After the passing of renowned wildlife advocate Jim Corbett, the park’s name was altered a third time in 1955, becoming Jim Corbett National Park.

History of Jim Corbett National Park
The history of Jim Corbett National Park is closely tied to the efforts of Corbett himself, who played a crucial role in its establishment. His experiences in hunting man-eating tigers and leopards in the Kumaon region led him to advocate for the preservation of wildlife and the establishment of a protected area. This region was notorious for its man-eating big cats that preyed on local communities. Jim Corbett National Park, established in 1936, holds the distinction of being India’s oldest national park. It is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India, and covers an extensive area of over 520 square kilometers. The park was initially named Hailey National Park after Sir Malcolm Hailey, the then-Governor of the United Provinces. Later, in 1957, it was renamed Jim Corbett National Park in honor of the legendary hunter and conservationist, Jim Corbett.

Flora and Fauna of Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett National Park is well-known for its abundant fauna and unmatched natural beauty. It is astounding that Corbett Park offers different kinds of flowers. There are roughly 110 tree species, 51 different shrub species, 27 different climbers, and 33 different forms of bamboo and grass. Sal Shorea Robusta trees, which cover about 75% of the central region, are the most found in Corbett. The trees found in Corbett that are the most noticeable include Sheesham, Dhak, Sisoo, and Khair. Around the national park, there are many additional variations. Chir Pine, the only conifer in the park, is found on ridge tops like Chir Choti and diminishes in Gajar Sot. The Banj Oak, a characteristic Himalayan species, can be seen growing in the upper elevations close to Kanda.

Leopard, tiger, elephant, sambar, hog deer, chital, barking deer, langur, wild pig, wild boar, rhesus monkey, jackal, and sambar are the mammals you are likely to witness on your Corbett wildlife trips. Other rare bird species in the national park include jungle fowl, peacocks, partridges, crows, Khaleej pheasants, vultures, laughing thrushes, orioles, kingfishers, parakeets, doves, woodpeckers, drongos, ducks, teals, cormorants, storks, and seagulls.

Places to Visit Near Jim Corbett National Park
There are lots of sites to explore near Jim Corbett. You may choose from scenic hill towns, rivers, waterfalls, and pilgrimage sites.

You can organize your itinerary by consulting this list of all the Corbett National Park tourist attractions.

  • Corbett Waterfall: One of the must-see locations in Jim Corbett is a waterfall, which is 66 feet tall. To get to this magnificent place, you must hike a little. Additionally, it becomes a sight to see on full moon evenings that mesmerizes people. 
  • Jhirna: The Southern region of Jim Corbett Park is home to this region, which is renowned for its dense forest and easy access to wildlife. Observing creatures like nilgai, sambhar, and cheetal in their natural habitat makes it one of the most popular spots in Jim Corbett.
  • Corbett Museum: The Jim Corbett Museum in Kaladhungi is the hunter-turned-heritage conservationist’s home. Visitors to Jim Corbett choose this museum as one of the must-see tourist attractions to view the accomplishments and efforts of the environmentalist. 
  • Garjia Devi Temple: The Garjia Devi Temple is a massive rock in the middle of the Kosi River that bears the name of the same-named deity. Devotees from all over the world flock to this temple, one of the most well-known locations in Jim Corbett. 
  • Bijrani: Bijrani is a magnificent location valued for its dense forest, vast grasslands, uncontrolled drainage systems, and animals. It is a dry park area with a wide variety of plants.

Safari in Jim Corbett National Park
Jeep Safari in Jim Corbett 

One of the activities you must try is the Jim Corbett jeep safari. This kind of exploration is the fastest and most efficient for Corbett. You can tour all the densely populated areas with a chance of sighting animals like red foxes, elephants, tigers, black bears, and more by riding in an open-air vehicle.

These open-top off-road vehicles are best suited for the rugged terrain of Corbett National Park with the professional & experienced wildlife-trained drivers and the knowledgeable Park Nature Guides who accompany you on these trips. They are well-versed in the day-to-day changes in wildlife movement, ensuring that your Jeep Safari experience is beyond what you have imagined.

Jeep Safari timings in Jim Corbett
Summer Timings

  • Morning – 5:30 am to 8:30 am
  • Afternoon- 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Winter Timings

  • Morning – 6:30 am to 9:30 am
  • Afternoon- 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm

Elephant Safari in Jim Corbett

Elephant Safari is a peaceful way to enjoy nature and breathtaking views of landscapes like riverbanks, valleys, and lush forests. One of the best things to do in the Corbett Tiger Reserve is to take an elephant ride with a skilled mahout. 

Riding an elephant at a safe height of 9 to 10 feet is a great way to explore the lush surroundings and environment. You may spot many species of birds, mammals, and reptiles from there. The only zones you can cover on an elephant safari are in the Dhikala and Bijrani regions. The safari has a set route, so visitors and travelers can see everything. Even Jim Corbett’s elephant safari price is less than the thrill you’ll experience.

Elephant Safari timings in Jim Corbett
Summer Timings

  • Morning- 6:00 am to 8:00 am
  • Afternoon- 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Winter Timings

  • Morning- 7:00 am to 9:00 am
  • Afternoon- 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm

Canter Safari in Jim Corbett 

A canter safari Jim Corbett is similar to a minibus or a compact RTV bus. It can carry 16 people at a time and is a shared safari. Corbett Tiger Reserve’s central section, well-renowned for its density and beauty, is the Dhikala zone, where the canter safari travels. If you do not have a permit for a night’s stay at Dhikala, a canter safari is the finest way to visit the Dhikala zone.

It is a different way to see the core area of Corbett National Park. They offer two canter safaris daily, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. One need not stay at a Dhikala or another accommodation inside the park to enjoy this safari.

Canter Safari timings in Jim Corbett

Summer Timings
  • Morning – 5:00 am to 11:00 am
  • Afternoon – 11:30 am to 5:00 pm
Winter Timings
  • Morning – 6:00 am to 10:30 am
  • Afternoon – 11:30 am to 5:00 pm

Night Safari in Jim Corbett

The Jim Corbett National Park’s night safari is conducted on the road outside the park, not inside it. As wildlife is most active at night, night safaris excite visitors to Jim Corbett National Park and occasionally result in excellent wildlife sightings. One should keep an eye out for reptiles like snakes or pythons during a night safari on bituminous roads.

Jim Corbett Zones or Gates

Zones of Jim Corbett

Dhikala Zone

The zone is the largest among the other zones of Jim Corbett and the finest example of pristine natural beauty. According to the data, most of the sightings of tigers are recorded in this zone. You can enjoy a jeep safari here to get the maximum chance to spot wildlife. Being situated on the edges of Patil Dun, Dhikala offers an excellent opportunity to spot Bengal Tigers, Cheetahs, and Elephants.

Dhela Zone

Witnessing the tigers in their natural habitat is a lifetime adventure you can encounter in this zone with high possibility. Dhela Zone is considered one of the best zones that have recorded the second-highest tiger sightings. And its spread of 1173-hectare for vibrant flora will enrich your safari tour in this park. In addition, this zone has 46 kilometers of jungle path that offers you an excellent opportunity to spot various wild animals. Gypsy safari in Dhela Zone is available throughout the year to experience the wilderness at its best. 

Bijrani Zone

The zone is around 1 km from Ramnagar city and is famous for a reasonably good amount of tiger sightings. Jeep and Elephant safaris in the Bijrani Zone are available to explore the Jim Corbett National Park . However, it is advised to book your jungle safari in advance at least 45 days before your visit. And the spot for safari is based upon a first come, first serve policy. This zone offers numerous forest accommodations and is blessed with mixed topography. 

Jhirna Zone

From the thrill of the wilderness to the refreshing environment, Jhirna Zone is one of the best to admire the charm of the national park. The zone got its name from the village near this zone. Being around 24 kilometers away from Ramanagar city, you can spot the popular wildlife attractions; Tiger and Sloth Bears. In 1994, Jhirna Zone was framed by extending the jungle area towards the village farmlands. The zone for the entire year allows you to enjoy a blend of wildlife and scenic natural beauty. 

Durga Devi Zone

Witness the hilly terrain in the lush forest by exploring the Durga Devi Zone. It is one of the most beautiful Jim Corbett National Park zones in the northwest part of this jungle. It is located at a high elevation and is around 28 kilometers away from Ramnagar. Here, some challenging treks are available for visitors amidst the wilderness. With hilly topography and deep, dark, woody vegetation, enjoying birdwatching is just something else. Durga Devi Zone is widely popular for the highest chance of Elephant sightings compared to other national park zones. 

Sitabani Zone

This zone is not a part of the tiger reserve and is preferred to enjoy birdwatching. You can visit rivers and temples in this zone, rest at the river bank, and enjoy the scenic beauty. Apart from it, you can see some reptiles and lush greenery that will blow your mind.

Gates of Jim Corbett 

Amdada Gate

It is an entry Gate of the Bijrani Zone, located approximately 1 km from Ramanagar. You can enjoy a jungle safari in the morning as well as in the evening from this gate to feel the thrill. Bijrani Zone’s entrance welcomes tourists from 1st October to 30th June. 

Jhirna Gate

The gate is open throughout the year to welcome into the Jhirna Zone of Jim Corbett National Park. However, you cannot book your advance safari in the monsoon season as the heavy rain might cancel your jungle safari tour. It is located approximately 20 km from the city-Ramnagar. 

Dhangadi Gate

The gate is the entry point of Dhikala Zone and is located at a distance of 19 km from Ramnagar city. Dhangadi Gate is open for tourists from 15th November to 15th June. You can enjoy an excellent encounter with the wildlife of this jungle through this gate. The timing is fixed for this gate to enjoy your safari tour. 

Durga Devi Gate 

The entry gate of Durga Devi Zone in Jim Corbett National Park welcomes tourists from 1st October to 30th June. You can witness this zone’s hill area and river through this gate. Moreover, you can halt at the Dhangarhi Museum by entering this gate. 

Resorts in and Around Jim Corbett National Park 

Your accommodation plays a crucial role in deciding your trip’s success quotient, we’ve compiled a list of Jim Corbett’s top accommodations  for you to check out while you plan your vacation. The resorts in Corbett are listed below.

  • Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, Uttarakhand
  • The Riverview Retreat
  • The Rangers Reserve
  • Paatlidun Safari Lodge
  • Corbett River Creek Resort And Spa
  • The Golden Tusk
  • Sterling Corbett
  • Namah Corbett
  • Riverside by Aahma
  • The Solluna Resort

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    BEST TIME TO VISIT JIM CORBETT NATIONAL PARK

    SUMMER SEASON

    (April to June)

    Visiting Jim Corbett National Park is a fantastic opportunity to escape the summer heat and enjoy its beauty. While temperatures in summers frequently reach beyond 40°C, it is still one of the most significant times to visit Jim Corbett National Park as all five zones are accessible. For the most part, tourists find the sun to be intolerable, although there are frequent showers that make the nights pleasant.

    MONSOON SEASON

    (July to September)

    The monsoon season is one of the best times to travel on a budget to visit Jim Corbett National Park. One can plan a beautiful vacation this season without losing the savings because hotels and resorts offer their services at cheap rates. Furthermore, if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, monsoon is the best time. It is the off-season, so you can avoid the crowds.

    WINTER SEASON

    (October to February)

    The winter months are perfect for visiting Jim Corbett National Park because the temperature is cold and comfortable, allowing you to enjoy the park’s stunning surroundings and go hiking. In addition, tourists can enjoy themselves immensely during this time while birdwatching and can also see several mammals and reptiles. During this time of year, the temperature lowers to around 5°C, and the days are pleasant enough to tour the national park.

    HOW TO REACH JIM CORBETT NATIONAL PARK

     
    By Flight
    By Train
    By Road
    The Dehradun Airport in Uttarakhand,is nearest to Jim Corbett, around 170 km away. The nearest international airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, around 231 kilometers away from Jim Corbett.
    Ramnagar is around 12 kilometers from Corbett National Park and has the closest railway station. Regular trains connect it to New Delhi and all of India’s main cities. The most popular trains for travel between Delhi and Ramnagar are the Ranikhet Express and Sampark Kranti.
    Roadways are one of the most popular choices for travelers to Jim Corbett because they are connected to the NH734 and an extensive network of highways with the local cities. Corbett may be reached from Delhi via road, which is the most practical route. With picturesque streets, the 245 kilometer trip typically takes 6 hours. Except for a little rocky area close to Ramnagar, the roads are reasonably good.

    TIPS FOR JIM CORBETT NATIONAL PARK

    • Avoid off-roading. Walk on the established trails and paths.
    • Keep distance from animals.
    • Don’t litter. Use dustbins to keep the area clean.
    • Carry a disposable bag.
    • Non-vegetarian food and alcohol are strictly not allowed.
    • Avoid entering the park after dark.

    FAQs

    Corbett National Park is located in which state?

    The Jim Corbett National park is located in the Uttarakhand state in India.

    Why Jim Corbett National Park is famous?

    The Jim Corbett National Park is famous for having the highest number of tigers among Indian National Parks

    What are the Jim Corbett National park timings?

    The Jim Corbett National Park timings during the summer are from 6:30 am to 9: 30 am and from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The safari hours are from 7:30 am to 10:30 am and 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm during the winter.

    What is the Jim Corbett National Park new name?

    Union Forest and Environment Minister Ashwani Kumar Choubey stated to change the name from Jim Corbett to Ramganga National park, but an official announcement has yet to be made

    What is the best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park?

    The monsoon season in Corbett lasts from July through September. Nature lovers would adore it because now is a fantastic time to explore the area’s lush, verdant surroundings. Most of the year, Corbett National Park is open, although from July 1 through November 14, some areas of the park are closed.