Information for Visitors

Jim Corbett National Park is one of India’s oldest and most famous national parks, known for its rich biodiversity, including the Bengal tiger. Located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, the park attracts wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photographers from across the globe. If you're planning to visit, here's a full description of essential information for visitors to help you prepare for a memorable trip.

General Information

Established : 1936, originally as Hailey National Park, it was renamed in honor of Jim Corbett, a famed hunter-turned-conservationist.

Location : In the foothills of the Himalayas, covering an area of around 1,300 square kilometers.

Major Attractions : The park is known for its tiger population, but it also boasts diverse wildlife like elephants, leopards, crocodiles, over 600 species of birds, and various reptiles.

Zones : The park is divided into multiple zones, each offering different types of wildlife experiences. The major ones are :

• Dhikala : Famous for tiger sightings and rich grasslands.
• Bijrani : Ideal for spotting tigers, elephants, and deer.
• Jhirna : Known for birdwatching and other smaller wildlife.
• Dhela & Sonanadi : These are newer zones with more secluded wildlife experiences.
• Lohachaur & Kotabagh : Less frequented by tourists, offering peaceful visits.

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (approximately 80 km from Ramnagar), which connects to Delhi and other major cities. Alternatively, you can fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) and then travel by road or train.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Ramnagar, well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Moradabad, and Lucknow. Trains like Ranikhet Express and Corbett Park Link Express operate on this route.

By Road

Jim Corbett National Park is well-connected by roads. You can take a bus or taxi from nearby cities like Nainital, Haldwani, or Delhi. The journey from Delhi is approximately 6-7 hours by road, covering a distance of about 270 km.

Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett

Winter (November to February) : This is the most popular season for visiting the park. The weather is cool and pleasant, and wildlife sightings are frequent as animals venture out for warmth and water. It’s also the best time for birdwatching.

Summer (March to June) : The weather can be quite hot, with temperatures rising above 40°C, but this is a good time for tiger sightings as animals come to the waterholes. Safaris during early mornings or evenings are best.

Monsoon (July to September) : The park remains closed for safaris during the monsoon season due to safety concerns (increased risk of flooding and slippery roads). However, this is a great time for the flora, as the park turns lush and green.

Entry and Safari Timings

Safari Timings :

The safaris are conducted during specific times of the day :

• Morning Safari : Usually from 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM (timing may vary based on the season).
• Afternoon Safari : Typically from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM.

Visitor Entry Gates

Jim Corbett has several entry gates for different zones :

• Ramnagar Gate : The primary gate, providing access to zones like Dhikala, Bijrani, and Jhirna.
• Dhela Gate & Jhirna Gate : Access to these specific zones.
• Bijrani Gate: Popular for jeep safaris and wildlife sightings.

Permit Required

Entry to the park is allowed only with a valid entry permit, which you need to obtain in advance. Permits can be booked online through the Jim Corbett National Park official website or at the Forest Reception Centre in Ramnagar.

Safari Options

Visitors can experience the park in different ways through various safari options :

Jeep Safari : A jeep safari is the most popular and flexible way to explore the park. It is ideal for small groups or families and provides a deeper, closer look at the park’s diverse wildlife. Jeep safaris are available in all zones of the park.

Canter Safari : A larger, open vehicle that can accommodate more passengers, typically offered in the Dhikala zone. Canter safaris are less private than jeep safaris but offer a group experience with similar opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Elephant Safari : Elephant rides are available in select zones like Dhikala and provide a unique opportunity to explore the park. This option is often used for tiger watching in some areas, but availability is limited.

Accommodation Options

Jim Corbett has a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets :

Government Rest Houses : Managed by the forest department, these are located within the park in zones like Dhikala and Bijrani. They provide basic amenities and offer an authentic experience of staying in the wilderness.

Private Resorts & Hotels : Numerous resorts are available around the park, offering comfortable stays and more luxurious amenities. Some popular resorts include - Aahana Resort, The Corbett Hideaway, Vanghat Jungle Lodge, Corbett Leela Villas, Corbett Riverside Resort.

Camping : For a more adventurous experience, you can opt for camping near the park. Many tour operators offer well-equipped camps with guides, meals, and safari arrangements.

Park Guidelines for Visitors

For your safety and the preservation of the park, there are some important guidelines to follow :

Maintain Silence : Do not make loud noises or disturb the wildlife. Animals are sensitive to noise, and excessive disturbance can affect their behavior.

Stay Inside the Vehicle : Always stay inside the safari vehicle during safaris. Wildlife, especially tigers, can be dangerous if provoked.

Do Not Litter : Avoid leaving behind any trash in the park. Ensure that you dispose of waste in designated areas or bring it back with you.

No Flash Photography : Flash photography is strictly prohibited as it may disturb animals. Take photos without flash to ensure the animals are not startled.

Smoking : Smoking is not allowed in the park. Fire hazards are high, especially during the dry season.

Things to Do in Jim Corbett National Park

Wildlife Safaris : The main activity in Corbett, offering opportunities for tiger sightings and viewing a wide variety of animals and birds.

Birdwatching : The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 600 species of birds. The Sitabani and Jhirna zones are excellent for spotting birds.

Fishing (Catch and Release) : Angling is allowed in certain parts of the park, mainly the Kosi River. However, the catch-and-release policy is followed to ensure sustainable fishing practices.

Nature Walks : Many resorts and tour operators offer guided nature walks. This allows visitors to explore the flora, smaller wildlife, and ecosystems of the park.

Visit the Corbett Museum : Located in Kaladhungi, the Corbett Museum is housed in Jim Corbett’s former residence. It offers insights into his life, conservation work, and his famous work in the area.

Trekking : Some areas near the park offer trekking and nature trails that allow visitors to experience the landscape on foot, but these are generally outside the park's main zones.

Food and Dining

On-Site Restaurants

Most resorts and hotels near the park offer multi-cuisine restaurants serving Indian, Continental, and local dishes. The food is typically fresh, organic, and made using locally sourced ingredients.

Packed Meals

Many safari packages include packed meals for tourists heading out early in the morning or staying in remote areas.

Local Cuisine

If you're staying near the park, try the local Kumaoni cuisine, which includes dishes like Aloo ke Gutke, Bhatt ki Churkani, and Singodi.