Jim Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand’s Nainital district, is India’s oldest and most famous wildlife sanctuary, renowned for its Royal Bengal Tigers, elephants, and diverse birdlife. Spread over 500 sq km of lush forests and grasslands, the park offers thrilling jeep, canter, and elephant safaris across zones like Dhikala, Bijrani, and Jhirna, each known for unique landscapes and wildlife experiences. Safaris operate twice daily between November and June, with expert guides ensuring safety and rich insights into the jungle’s ecosystem. Easily accessible via Ramnagar, Corbett is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure travelers seeking an authentic wildlife experience.
Overview
Jim Corbett Safari
📍 Location
Jim Corbett National Park is located in Nainital district, Uttarakhand, about 250 km from Delhi and 130 km from Rishikesh. It is India’s oldest national park, established in 1936, and named after the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett.
🌿 About the Park
Area: 520 sq. km (core area) + buffer zone
Terrain: Dense forests, grasslands, river belts, and hills (350–1,200 m altitude)
Rivers: Ramganga, Kosi, Sonanadi, Mandal
Famous For: Royal Bengal Tigers, Asian Elephants, leopards, and over 600 species of birds
Corbett is part of the Project Tiger Reserve and is one of India’s best places to spot tigers in the wild.
🚙 Safari Zones
The park is divided into six tourism zones, each with unique landscapes and wildlife density:
| Zone | Entry Gate | Features | Tiger Sightings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhikala | Dhangarhi Gate | Largest & most popular zone; dense forest, grassland, & river view | Very high |
| Bijrani | Amdanda Gate | Known for open grasslands, tigers, and elephants | High |
| Jhirna | Dhela Gate | Open year-round; rich in birds & herbivores | Moderate |
| Dhela | Dhela Gate | Newest eco-tourism zone; diverse flora & fauna | Moderate |
| Durga Devi | Durga Devi Gate | Hilly terrain, scenic beauty, birding hotspot | Moderate |
| Garjia / Sitabani | Garjia Gate | Buffer zone; temples, river walks, birding | Low |
🕐 Safari Timings
Safaris operate twice a day:
Morning: 6:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Evening: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
(Timings may vary slightly with sunrise/sunset)
Park Open Season:
Mid-November to mid-June: All zones open
Monsoon (July–Oct): Only Jhirna & Dhela remain open
Canter Safari (Dhikala)
16-seater open bus
4–5 hrs
Elephant Safari (limited zones)
2–4 people
1–2 hrs
🧳 What to Carry
Valid ID (mandatory for entry)
Binoculars, camera, hat, and sunscreen
Light jacket (early morning safaris can be cold)
Comfortable cotton clothes in natural colors (avoid bright clothes)
Water bottle and snacks
🚗 How to Reach
Nearest Town: Ramnagar (gateway to Corbett)
By Train: Ramnagar Railway Station (connected to Delhi & Haridwar)
By Air: Pantnagar Airport – 80 km away
By Road:
Delhi → Corbett: ~6 hours (via NH9)
Rishikesh → Corbett: ~4 hours
🦜 Best Time to Visit
November – February: Pleasant weather, great for birdwatching
March – May: Best for tiger sightings (dry season)
June – October: Green landscapes, fewer tourists (limited zones open)
🌄 Nearby Attractions
Corbett Museum (Kaladhungi) – Jim Corbett’s heritage home
Garjia Devi Temple – scenic temple by Kosi River
Corbett Waterfall – 25 km from Ramnagar
Sitabani Forest Reserve – great for nature walks and birding
