Jim Corbett National Park, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, is renowned as the oldest national park in the country, established to protect the endangered Bengal tiger. It is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species.
1,318 km2
Dense Moist Deciduous Forest with Sal Vegetation
Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Elephant, Himalayan Black Bear, Barking Deer, Langur
Changeable Hawk-Eagle, Pallas’s Fish Eagle, Red Junglefowl, Indian Peafowl
Jim Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand’s Nainital district, is India’s first national park, established in 1936 as Hailey National Park. Renamed in 1956 to honor hunter and naturalist Jim Corbett, the park played a key role in Project Tiger, India’s initiative to protect tigers. Spanning 520.8 km², the park features diverse landscapes, including hills, riverine belts, marshes, grasslands, and a large lake, with elevations from 400 to 1,220 meters.
The park’s climate varies with cold winter nights, sunny days, and monsoon rains from July to September. It boasts sub-Himalayan geographical and ecological characteristics. The dense moist deciduous forest, covering 73% of the park, mainly consists of sal trees, haldu, peepal, rohini, and mango trees. The park is home to approximately 110 tree species, 50 mammal species, 580 bird species, and 25 reptile species.
An ecotourism hotspot, Jim Corbett National Park houses 617 plant species and a rich variety of fauna. However, increasing tourism poses challenges to its ecological balance, necessitating careful management to preserve its natural heritage.
When you book with Into The Wild, our packages usually include the following (can vary based on individual client requirements):
Our packages do not include the following, unless separately requested for:
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located about 80 kilometers away. From the airport, we can organize an air-conditioned vehicle to transport our guests to reach the park. Alternatively, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, approximately 270 kilometers from the park, offers more frequent flights and broader connectivity. From Delhi, guests can either drive down or take a train to Ramnagar, the closest town to the park.
The nearest railway station is Ramnagar, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Moradabad and Bareilly. Several direct trains, including the Ranikhet Express and Corbett Link Express, operate between Delhi and Ramnagar, providing convenient access to the park. From Ramnagar station, we can organize an air-conditioned vehicle to take them to Jim Corbett National Park, located just a few kilometers away.
This is an indicative itinerary of your wildlife adventure and can be personalized as per your requirements. Reach out to us for a customized tour package.
Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was later renamed in honor of the famous hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett. It holds the distinction of being India's first national park and played a pivotal role in the conservation movement in India.
At Into The Wild, we believe in providing our guests with only the finest luxury accommodations. To ensure this, our dedicated team personally visits each property, staying there to experience every detail firsthand. This commitment to quality guarantees that the accommodations we recommend meet our stringent standards for comfort, luxury, and service.
Our founder, Akshay Gurnani, alongside a robust network of seasoned professionals, meticulously evaluates each location, from its amenities to the surrounding natural beauty. This hands-on approach reassures our customers that they will enjoy an unparalleled stay, immersing themselves in the tranquility and splendor of nature without sacrificing any comfort.
We take pride in offering a curated selection of properties that promise not only a luxurious retreat but also an unforgettable journey into the wild.
We are also constantly seeking to expand our list of accommodation partners, ensuring that our customers have a diverse array of options to choose from. By continually adding new hotels & resorts, we can offer fresh and unique experiences tailored to the preferences and desires of our guests.
The best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park is from November to June. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions and excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
Winter (November to February): The weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C (41°F to 77°F). This is an ideal time for wildlife viewing as animals are more active and visible.
Spring and Early Summer (March to June): Temperatures range from 15°C to 40°C (59°F to 104°F). Although it can get quite hot in the peak summer months (April to June), this season offers great opportunities for spotting tigers and other wildlife near water sources.
Monsoon (July to October): The park receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season and many zones, including Dhikala, are closed from mid-June to mid-November. While the park is lush and green, wildlife sightings can be challenging and accessibility is limited.
For the best wildlife experiences and comfortable weather, plan your visit between November and June.
Jim Corbett National Park is divided into several zones, each accessible through specific gates. The main zones and their respective gates are:
1. Dhikala Zone:
Dhangari Gate: The most popular and largest zone, known for its rich biodiversity and excellent chances of spotting tigers and other wildlife.
2. Bijrani Zone:
Amdanda Gate: Famous for its diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes, making it a favorite among visitors.
3. Jhirna Zone:
Dhela Gate: Accessible throughout the year, this zone offers good wildlife viewing opportunities, including tigers and elephants.
4. Dhela Zone:
Dhela Gate: A relatively new addition to the park, known for its dense forests and abundant wildlife.
5. Durga Devi Zone:
Durga Devi Gate: Ideal for bird watching and spotting wildlife in a more rugged terrain with riverine habitats.
6. Sonanadi Zone (also known as the Sitabani Zone):
Vatanvasa Gate: This buffer zone offers a serene environment with lesser tourist traffic, known for its scenic beauty and rich flora and fauna.
7. Garjiya Zone:
Garjiya Gate: Another recently opened zone, offering diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Each zone in Jim Corbett National Park provides a unique experience, and it is recommended to book your safaris in advance to ensure access to your preferred zone and gate.
For Indian citizens, any of the following identity proofs is acceptable:
i. Voter Photo identity card issued by Election Commission of India
ii. Passport PAN Card issued by Income Tax Department
iii. Driving License issued by RTO
iv. Photo identity card having serial number issued by Central/State Government
v. Aadhaar Card
For foreigners, only passport is accepted as ID Proof.
When preparing for a trip to Jim Corbett National Park, it’s essential to pack the following items for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
Clothing:
Summer Months:
– Lightweight, long-sleeved t-shirts/shirts and pants for protection against insects, sunburn and thorny vegetation.
– Cap/Floppy Hat with a brim to shield your face from the sun
Winter Months:
– Warm, layered clothing (thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, sweaters) to combat chilly mornings and evenings
– Thermal socks
– Gloves, scarf and beanie to protect against cold winds
– Face buff for protection from dust
Shop our exclusive Into The Wild dust buffs crafted from breathable bamboo fibre → Shop Now
Personal Gear:
– Sunscreen with a high SPF
– Sunglasses with UV protection
– Neutral-coloured clothing (grey, brown, green). Avoid bright colours such as red, orange, blue, white, etc.
– Sports shoes or any comfortable, closed footwear for safaris
– Insect repellent
– Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
– A lightweight, comfortable backpack to carry essentials during safaris
– Binoculars for wildlife viewing
– DSLR Camera, a telephoto lens along with extra batteries
– Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries (incase of night safari)
Additionally for winter months:
– Hand warmers for added comfort during early morning safaris.
– Lip balm and moisturiser to prevent dryness due to cold weather
Documents and Essentials:
– Valid identification such as PAN, Aadhar or Driver’s licence
– Cash (Rs. 100/200/500 denominations) for souvenirs, tips, and contingencies
Snacks and Water:
– The hotel will provide water bottles in insulated boxes. Consider carrying effervescent tablets such as Fast&Up for additional hydration.
– Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits or other non-perishable snacks for quick energy during safaris
Personal Hygiene Items:
– Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for cleaning hands
– Tissues or toilet paper
– Biodegradable soap
Optional Items:
– Portable charger or power bank for recharging electronics
– Travel pillow for comfort during long drives
– Travel umbrella for sun or rain protection
– Portable or collapsible water bottle
The safari timings during the summer season are scheduled from 6:30am to 9:30 am in the morning and from 4pm to 6pm in the evening.
In the winter season, the safari timings are from 7:30pm to 10:30am in the morning and from 3pm to 5pm in the evening.
The best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park is in the months between November to June and the weather is optimum for tiger sightings. Avoid the park during the monsoons because there are chances of heavy rainfall which can drastically reduce the chances of spotting a tiger.
Two days are not enough to fully experience Jim Corbett National Park. To truly appreciate its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes and various safari zones, at least four days are recommended. This allows ample time for multiple safaris, exploring different areas of the park and enjoying the natural beauty without feeling rushed.
Yes, you can stay inside Jim Corbett National Park. The park offers several forest rest houses (FRHs) and lodges located within its boundaries, providing a unique opportunity to experience the wildlife and natural beauty up close. Some popular options include Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, and Gairal Forest Rest Houses. These accommodations offer basic amenities and require advance booking through the official Jim Corbett National Park website or the Uttarakhand Forest Department. Staying inside the park enhances your safari experience and increases the chances of wildlife sightings.
Jim Corbett National Park is open for safaris every day during the tourism season, but the park remains closed during the monsoon season, typically from June 15th to November 15th, due to heavy rains and maintenance activities. Within the open season, the park does not have a specific weekly closure day, so safaris are available seven days a week. However, it is always recommended to check for any specific zone closures or restrictions before planning your visit, as these can vary.
Such a lovely experience staying in the middle of the jungle in the Dhikala Guest House. You don't have an option but to stay here as this government accommodation is the only place available incase you visiting Dhikala zone. This zone has the best chances of you spotting a tiger in Jim Corbett, hence take the plunge and go for it! Love the service of Into The Wild!