Jim Corbett National Park, India’s oldest and most prestigious national park, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was named after the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist, Jim Corbett. While the park is famous worldwide for its Royal Bengal Tigers, the experience here goes far beyond just a jungle safari.
The Heart of the Park: Wildlife Safaris
The prime attraction remains the wildlife safari, offering a thrilling opportunity to spot tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and over 600 species of birds in their natural habitat. The park is divided into multiple tourist zones, each offering a unique experience.
1. Jeep and Canter Safaris
- Jeep Safari: Ideal for smaller groups, the open jeep offers a more intimate and flexible experience across zones like Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, Garjiya, and Durga Devi.
- Canter Safari: Exclusively available for the highly sought-after Dhikala Zone, the Canter (a large, open-roofed vehicle) accommodates more tourists and provides a broad, sweeping view of the Patli Dun valley’s vast grasslands.
- Top Zones to Know:
- Dhikala: Known for its breathtaking landscape and is considered the best for tiger and elephant sightings, especially in the grasslands. Day safaris are by Canter only; a night stay in the Forest Rest House is required for jeep access.
- Bijrani: Very popular for its varied terrain of grasslands and thick Sal forest, offering excellent chances of a tiger sighting.
- Jhirna & Dhela: These zones remain open throughout the year (subject to weather), making them a reliable option even during the monsoon season when other zones close.
2. Bird Watching
Corbett is a premier destination for ornithologists. With over 600 species of resident and migratory birds, including the Great Hornbill, Fishing Eagle, and various Orioles, it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise. The banks of the Ramganga and Kosi rivers, as well as the Sitabani Forest, are excellent spots for this peaceful activity, especially during the winter months.
Beyond the Safari: Must-Visit Attractions
The surrounding buffer zones and nearby areas offer numerous picturesque and cultural sites to enrich your visit.
3. Visit the Sacred Garjiya Temple
Perched atop a massive rock in the middle of the Kosi River, the Garjiya Devi Temple is a prominent Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Garjiya. Reached by a flight of stairs, the unique location and serene environment make it a beautiful spiritual and photographic spot.
4. Trek to Corbett Waterfall
Located about 25 km from Ramnagar, the Corbett Waterfall is a tranquil, 20-meter cascade surrounded by dense teak wood forest. It’s a popular picnic spot where you can enjoy the calming sound of falling water. Visitors typically take a short trek of about 1.5 to 2 km from the main road to reach the falls.
5. Explore the Jim Corbett Museum
Located in Kaladhungi, this is the former home of Jim Corbett during his winter stays. It has been converted into a museum that offers a fascinating look into the life, personal belongings (including his guns), and literature of the legendary conservationist and author.
6. Experience a Forest Night Stay
For the hardcore wildlife enthusiast, an overnight stay in one of the Forest Rest Houses (FRHs) inside the core zones (like Dhikala, Bijrani, or Jhirna) is a must. Staying deep inside the jungle offers a completely immersive experience, allowing you to witness the forest life at dawn and dusk—the prime time for predator movement.
