Jim Corbett National Park

A Complete Guide to India’s Oldest Wildlife Sanctuary

Introduction

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is India’s first and most prestigious national park. Established in 1936, it was initially named Hailey National Park after Sir Malcolm Hailey, the then Governor of the United Provinces. Later, it was renamed in honor of Jim Corbett, the legendary hunter, conservationist, and author who played a key role in its creation.

Spread across 520 square kilometers, this biodiverse paradise is home to the majestic Bengal tiger, along with hundreds of other species of flora and fauna. It is part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve, which covers 1,288 square kilometers and includes the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary and Reserve Forest areas.

This article explores the park’s history, wildlife, safari experiences, best time to visit, accommodations, and conservation efforts—making it the ultimate guide for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

History of Jim Corbett National Park

Early Establishment

• 1936: Founded as Hailey National Park to protect the endangered Bengal tiger.
• 1954-1955: Renamed Ramganga National Park after the river flowing through it.
• 1957: Finally renamed Jim Corbett National Park in tribute to the legendary hunter-conservationist.

Role of Jim Corbett

Jim Corbett was instrumental in advocating for wildlife protection in India. His efforts helped shape conservation policies, and the park stands as a testament to his vision.

Inclusion in Project Tiger (1973)

When Project Tiger was launched in 1973, Corbett became one of the first nine tiger reserves in India, playing a crucial role in tiger conservation.

Geographical and Ecological Features

Location & Landscape

• State: Uttarakhand
• Nearest Town: Ramnagar (12 km)
• Major River: Ramganga
• Altitude: 400 to 1,200 meters above sea level

The park features diverse landscapes, including:

• Dense Sal forests
• Grasslands (Chaurs)
• Riverine belts
• Hilly terrains

Flora (Plant Life)

• Dominant Tree: Sal (Shorea robusta)
• Other Trees: Rohini, Haldu, Pipal, Mango
• Grasses: Kansi, Khus, Bamboo
• Flowering Plants: Semal, Dhak, Kachnar

Fauna (Wildlife)

Mammals

• Royal Bengal Tiger (Main attraction)
• Asiatic Elephant
• Leopard
• Sloth Bear
• Sambar Deer
• Spotted Deer (Chital)
• Himalayan Black Bear
• Wild Boar
• Yellow-throated Marten

Birds (Over 600 Species!)

• Great Hornbill
• Crested Serpent Eagle
• Pallas’s Fish Eagle
• White-tailed Rubythroat
• Peafowl (Indian Peacock)

Reptiles & Amphibians

• Mugger Crocodile
• Gharial
• King Cobra
• Indian Python

Zones of Jim Corbett National Par

The park is divided into five main tourist zones, each offering unique wildlife experiences:

1. Dhikala Zone (Most Popular)

• Best for: Tiger sightings, scenic landscapes
• Unique Feature: Offers stay inside the forest at Dhikala Forest Lodge
• Safari Type: Jeep & Canter safaris

2. Bijrani Zone

• Best for: Mixed forests and grasslands
• Wildlife: Tigers, elephants, deer
• Safari Type: Jeep safaris

3. Jhirna Zone (Open Year-Round)

• Best for: Birdwatching and sloth bears
• Unique Feature: Remains open even in monsoon

4. Dhela Zone (Newest Zone)

• Best for: Offbeat wildlife sightings
• Safari Type: Jeep safaris

5. Durga Devi Zone (Birdwatcher’s Paradise)

• Best for: Rare birds and riverine species
• Wildlife: Leopards, Himalayan goral

Safari Experiences in Corbett

1. Jeep Safari

• Best for: Small groups (6 people per jeep)
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Best Zones: Bijrani, Dhikala

2. Canter Safari

• Best for: Larger groups (16 people)
• Duration: 4-5 hours
• Only Available in: Dhikala Zone

3. Elephant Safari (Limited Availability)

• Best for: Close wildlife encounters
• Duration: 1 hour

4. Birdwatching & Nature Walks

• Best Spots: Sitabani, Kosi River

Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett National Park

Best Months: November to June (Avoid monsoon for safaris)

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

1. Forest Lodges (Inside the Park)

• Dhikala Forest Lodge (Most sought-after)
• Bijrani Rest House
• Gairal & Khinnanauli FRH

2. Resorts & Eco-Lodges (Nearby)

• The Solluna Resort (Luxury)
• Corbett Leela Vilas (Mid-range)
• Corbett Machaan (Budget-friendly)

3. Homestays & Camps

• Corbett Riverside Camping
• Hideaway River Lodge

Conservation Efforts & Challenges

1. Project Tiger & Anti-Poaching Measures

• Camera traps and patrolling teams monitor tigers.
• Community involvement in conservation.

2. Human-Wildlife Conflict

• Villages near the park face elephant raids.
• Awareness programs help reduce conflicts.

3. Sustainable Tourism Practices

• Limited safari permits to reduce environmental impact.
• Eco-friendly lodges promote responsible tourism.

Interesting Facts About Corbett National Park

✅ First park to launch Project Tiger (1973)
✅ Home to the oldest tiger census records
✅ Jim Corbett shot the famous Champawat man-eater near this area
✅ One of the few parks allowing night stays inside the forest (Dhikala)

Travel Tips for Visitors

✔ Book safaris 45 days in advance (Permits sell out fast!)
✔ Carry binoculars & a good camera
✔ Wear earthy colors (avoid bright clothes)
✔ Follow park rules (No loud noises, no littering)

Why Visit Jim Corbett National Park?

Jim Corbett National Park is not just a wildlife sanctuary—it’s a living legacy of India’s conservation journey. Whether you’re a tiger enthusiast, birdwatcher, or nature lover, Corbett offers an unforgettable wilderness experience.

From thrilling jeep safaris to serene riverside stays, every moment here connects you with nature’s raw beauty. By visiting responsibly, you contribute to the park’s mission of preserving wildlife for future generations.

Final Thought

If you’ve ever dreamed of hearing a tiger’s roar echo through the jungle or witnessing elephants bathe in the Ramganga, Jim Corbett National Park is where that dream comes alive.