Jim Corbett National Park
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From the silver mist over the Ramganga River to the stealthy stride of a tiger through Sal and teak forests, Corbett is nature’s own cinema — breathtaking, unpredictable, and endlessly thrilling. It’s not just where India’s conservation legacy began — it’s where it still roars.
The Legacy of Jim Corbett
Born in 1875 in Nainital, India, Edward James “Jim” Corbett grew up surrounded by the forests and wildlife of the Kumaon region. An expert tracker and marksman, he became famous for hunting man-eating tigers and leopards that had terrorized villages in the Himalayan foothills. Over his lifetime, he is credited with hunting over a dozen man-eaters, including the infamous Champawat Tiger, which had killed more than 400 people.
But Corbett’s story didn’t end as just a hunter. Deeply connected to the wilderness and aware of the rapid decline of India’s wildlife, he underwent a profound transformation. He began advocating for wildlife conservation, urging people to protect animals rather than fear them. His writings, such as “Man-Eaters of Kumaon” and “Jungle Lore,” brought the beauty and fragility of India’s forests to the world’s attention.
In recognition of his conservation efforts, India’s first national park—established in 1936 as Hailey National Park—was renamed Jim Corbett National Park in 1957. Today, it stands as a sanctuary for tigers and a symbol of Corbett’s enduring legacy as a protector of the wild.
The Wild Playground – Landscapes & Vibe Check
And no, this isn’t just tiger turf. With the Ramganga River snaking through its belly, the park is an ecological wonderland—home to a jaw-dropping range of flora and fauna. It’s not just a safari; it’s a cinematic experience on wheels.
The Landscape
Jim Corbett National Park isn’t just a forest—it’s where India’s conservation story began. Spread across 520 sq. km in Uttarakhand’s Himalayan foothills, the park is a breathtaking blend of grasslands, rivers, and forests that shift moods with every sunrise.
Sal forests hum with cicadas and langur calls. The golden chaurs (open meadows) play host to deer, elephants, and stalking tigers. The Ramganga River flows through its heart, bringing crocodiles, gharials, and hundreds of birds to its shimmering banks. Misty hills roll into deep valleys, giving every safari a cinematic frame worthy of legend.
Staying Inside the Jungle – The Corbett Forest Rest Houses
Here’s the ultimate flex: Corbett lets you live inside the jungle. With forest rest houses like Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, and Gairal managed by the forest department, you’re not just visiting the wild—you’re part of it.
Expect clean, rustic rooms, basic amenities, and the kind of silence that gets interrupted by alarm calls in the night. No luxury frills—just raw nature, starlit skies, and the thrill of being surrounded by the unknown.Sal forests hum with cicadas and langur calls. The golden chaurs (open meadows) play host to deer, elephants, and stalking tigers. The Ramganga River flows through its heart, bringing crocodiles, gharials, and hundreds of birds to its shimmering banks. Misty hills roll into deep valleys, giving every safari a cinematic frame worthy of legend.
Perks of Staying Inside:
Early access to safari routes before day visitors
Closer encounters and higher chances of rare sightings
Immersive jungle atmosphere day and night
Note: Only visitors with night stays are allowed inside certain core zones by jeep; others must join canter safaris.
Safari Styles in Corbett
Jeep Safari (6-seater): The most intimate and flexible experience, ideal for photographers and serious wildlife lovers. Available in all zones for both morning and evening drives.
Canter Safari (16-seater): Perfect for group travelers—especially in the iconic Dhikala Zone.Timings:
Morning: ~6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Afternoon: ~2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
(Timings vary seasonally)
What You Might Spot on a Good Day
| Wildlife | Common Sightings |
|---|---|
| Royal Bengal Tiger | Frequent |
| Wild Elephants | Very Common |
| Leopards | Elusive but thrilling |
| Crocodiles & Gharials | Around rivers |
| Deer (Chital, Sambar, Hog) | Abundant |
| Dholes (Wild Dogs) | Rare |
| Birds (Eagles, Hornbills, Kingfishers) | Everywhere |
Things to Know Before You Enter
Advance Booking is Essential – Especially for Dhikala and Bijrani Rest Houses. Slots fill up months in advance.
No Mobile Network – Disconnect from the world; reconnect with the wild.
Carry Original ID Proof – It’s mandatory at every entry gate.
Follow the Jungle Code – No loud music, littering, or stepping out of vehicles. Respect the residents of the forest.
Popular Safari Zones
Dhikala – The Iconic Heartbeat
Corbett’s most famous and largest zone. Think wide grasslands, elephants bathing in Ramganga, and the best chance of spotting tigers in open daylight. Only overnight visitors can enter by jeep, while day travelers go by canter. It’s wild, cinematic, and pure adventure.
Bijrani – The Photographer’s Paradise
Located near Ramnagar, Bijrani is lush, green, and full of drama. Sal forests meet open meadows, and every turn feels like a movie frame. It’s excellent for tiger tracking and known for stunning morning light—perfect for photography.
Jhirna – The All-Season Zone
Open year-round, Jhirna never closes. Its mixed vegetation attracts tigers, sloth bears, and countless bird species. Great for spontaneous travelers and off-season explorers.
Dhela – The Underrated Gem
A newer zone known for peace and balance—dense forests, tall grass, and fewer jeeps. Excellent birding and consistent herbivore activity make it a quiet favorite.
Durga Devi – The Mountain Soul
High ridges, rugged valleys, and rivers teeming with mahseer fish. A paradise for birdwatchers and adventurers. Tiger sightings are rare, but the experience is majestic.
Pakhro – The Offbeat Frontier
Part of the Kalagarh Division, Pakhro is wild, raw, and unexplored. Ideal for seasoned safari-goers seeking solitude, elephants, and serene landscapes.
166 Years of Peace
One remarkable tradition here is how the local Rabari community treats leopards. Even if a leopard kills one of their livestock, they do not retaliate. Because of this peaceful approach, there has been no human-leopard conflict in this region run by the community for 166 years.
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Our safari plans are carefully designed to offer you the finest wildlife experiences across India’s safari destinations. At the same time, we recognize that every traveler is unique. That’s why each itinerary can be personalized to match your comfort, style, and exclusivity.
How to reach Jim Corbett
AIR
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The nearest airport to Jim Corbett is Pantnagar (80 km), while Delhi Airport (260 km) is the most convenient with easy road and train access to Ramnagar, the park’s main entry point.
Train
Take a train to Ramnagar Railway Station, the nearest to Jim Corbett. From there, hire a taxi or jeep—park gates are just 10–30 km away.
Road
Jim Corbett National Park is well-connected by road — you can drive or take a bus/taxi from Delhi (around 250 km) via Haldwani, Ramnagar, or Kashipur. Ramnagar is the main entry point.