The legendary land of Jim Corbett needs no introduction to wildlife enthusiasts. The Corbett National Park and surrounding area ranks as one of the most dynamic ecosystems, which is the home to one of the most fearsome, and most majestic of all Indian predators – the Tiger!

The sanctuary was renamed, as Ramganga National Park after India was declared independent in 1947. It was re-christened Jim Corbett National Park, in the memory of Jim Corbett, a legendary hunter who shot several man-eating tigers thereby saving the lives of innumerable hapless villagers.

It was here that the prestigious Project Tiger was launched in 1973 as an attempt to save the tiger and its habitat.

A little about the geographical location of the park! The park is located on the hills of Nanital Pauri Garwhal and Bijnore (districts of Uttranchal). The reserve is spread over a huge area of 1318.54 sq. km, which includes 797.72 sq. km. of buffer area and 520 sq. km. of core area. The core area is basically known as the Jim Corbett, while buffer contains the reserve forests (496.54 sq. km.) and another wild life sanctuary called Sonanadi. (301.18 sq. km.)

The Kanda ridge binds, the core area to the north, which at the highest point boasts of a height of 1043 m. Mountains like the Shivalik and the Outer Himalayan geological region forms a part of the Corbett Tiger Reserve. The area serves as a catchment area of the Ramganga, which is a tributary of Ganga.

The magnificent river Ramganga, as it flows through the entire length of the reserve, gets divided into little jungle streams, and the heavenly sight of these streams tumbling through the ravines has never failed to enchant anyone who loves to experience nature in all its glory. While the higher ridges are cloaked by dense forest of Sal, is covered by mixed deciduous forests, which includes over 110 varieties of trees, 33 kinds of bamboo’s and 51 species of shrubs. The highest density of tigers in an Indian forest is found in the Corbett – approximately one in every 5 sq. km.

The predators which includes the magnificent Tiger and lesser cats like Leopard, jungle cat and fishing cat feast on a variety of prey like the deer’s which includes hog deer, sambar, chital and barking deer, and other animals like the wild boar. Corbett plays hosts to more than fifty mammals’ 580 kinds of birds and 25 reptile species. Some of the visible species include the elephants, the great Himalayan black bear, dhole the wild dog, the black napped Hare, the porcupine, the Indian grey mongoose, and of course the adorable (from a distance) sloth bear. Some of more shy ones include the Yellow throated Marten, the jackal and the Himalayan palm Civet. Plus adding color to jungle are a variety of birds like water birds, pheasants, jungle fowl and the Indian hornbill. And who can forget the Gharial, the slender snorted crocodile and the Mugger, the sleeping beauty of the Croc family. He mahaseer – a fine sporting fish is the pride of the Ramganga River, and a catch prized by anglers though fishing is strictly prohibited inside the Corbett. Comfortable living quarters and excellent facilities for viewing wildlife make Corbett the preferred destination for all wildlife enthusiasts.

Tourists Attractions

The Ramganga, which gives life to the forest as it, dissects the entire length and breath of the jungle, forms numerous little ridges and ravines. The topography is therefore very varied, as the little streams have helped in the formation of small islands of “Sheesham” trees. The ridge area as it has been earlier is thickly covered with “Sal” trees.

The center of tourist activity continuous to be Dhikala, which is located at the heart of the core area. It was here that the ambitious Project Tiger was launched. Tourists can take their pick of choosing from a variety of residential accommodations, which have been built along one end of a large grassy plateau perched on the edge of the cliff bordering the Ramganga reservoir.

Wildlife is of course the main tourist attraction and though the elusive Tiger is the star attraction, the wildlife of Corbett is immensely diverse and includes more than 50 mammals, 577 bird species and at least 25 reptiles. Corbett is also known as the heaven for bird watchers, as it boasts of more than hundreds of unseen species of birds, most of which are migratory and arrive in winters. Graylag, Bareheaded goose, duck, Grepe, Snipe, Sandpiper, Gull and Wagtail are the seasonal visitors and the darters, cormorants, egrets, herons, the black-necked stork and the spur winged lapwings are to found all year round.

There are more than 25 species of reptiles in the Corbett. Gharials and Muggers, the silent predators rule the river alongside a variety of turtles and tortoises. It would be advisable to where boots as the jungle slithers with several variety of snakes, which includes the deadly, King Cobra and the Krait. The Indian Python is also a part of the Corbett family.

Whether you are a wildlife photographer, a nature poet, an angler or an adventurous youth Corbett without a shadow of a doubt will be an experience of a lifetime. Its obviously advantageous have one’s vehicle especially if you own a jeep or an SUV. It’s permitted to walk in some areas of the jungle but with a registered guide. Elephant rides for viewing wildlife can be can be booked in Dhikala complex in mornings and evenings

Entry Requirements

Permits are needed to enter the park, as visitors to Corbett are stringently monitored. The permits can be obtained from the park the park administration in Ramnagar. Rs. 350 is charged from foreigners for the first three days and for every additional day Rs. 75 is charged. This is exclusive of boarding and lodging charges.

How To Visit

The railhead at Ramnagar, 50 km. from the main park campsite at Dhikala connects Corbett to outside world. There are direct trains from Delhi, Lucknow and Moradabad. Cars can also be rented to drive along the road that connects Delhi with Ramnagar, passing through Moradabad; a bus journey from Delhi will take about seven hours. There are also daily busses that tourists can take from Ramnagar, Moradabad and Ranikhet.

Busses run within the park to reach Dikhala from Ramnagar. Jeeps too can be hired for Rs. 800 per day.

Once inside the park elephant rides and jeep rides can be arranged. Private vehicles too are allowed inside. Elephant rides are the best possible way to experience the forest and the wildlife. The charges are Rs. 100 per person or Rs. 400 per elephant for two hours.

Please note that movement within the camp is restricted and moving out on foot without a registered guide is forbidden.

Best Time To Visit

The park is closed during the monsoons from June 16th till November 14th. After the park reopens after the monsoons the best time to visit it would be between December and February when the Ramganga River is teeming with the esteemed foreign visitors – the colorful migratory birds. Summer is the best season to experience the thrills of wildlife, because it’s then that the tigers venture out of the deep forests in search of water.

Some Must Do’s List

• All litter should be deposited at predetermined collection points. The Jungle can only remain clean through collective responsibility.

• Flashy clothes that catches the sun should be avoided. Dull colored clothes should be worn during the excursions.

• The authorities always appreciate feedback. So don’t hesitate to share your thoughts if you think they can improve the experience.

• Local customs and traditions should be respected. Don’t laugh at or make fun of the tribals that live in the area.

• Help the authorities in making the forest a greener haven for our furry and feathered friends. Plant trees wherever possible, if you feel to do so.

• Use water as sparingly as possible. Don’t forget that the animals are sharing their resources with you.

• Try and limit the use of paper. This will help in avoiding forest fires.

• Always ask for permission before photographing the locals in their homes. They might not like it.

• Cover yourself as much as possible. So that the body is protected from dust, insects and strong sun

• Please observe all the rules and regulations as laid down by the park authorities. They are for your own safety.

• Registered guides are familiar with every nook and corner of the forest and will protect you from everything.

• Nature dictates the right of passage. Don’t try to create one for yourself.

Some Corbett National Park Facts – A Close Look

Park Area – is 520.82 sq km (1318 sq km Corbett National Park including Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary)

How to Reach - Train and bus connections up to Ramnagar 270 km from Delhi. The route from Delhi is as under:

Delhi- Ghaziabad- Hapur- Moradabad- Kashipur- Ramnagar- 10 KM Corbett.

Maximum length of visit- Depends on your schedule and interest. For normal tourists a stay of minimum 4 Days will suffice.

What to Wear - Dull clothes of greens and browns. Carry a broad rimmed cap and shades. We well covered during winters for the early jeep rides.

Main Animal Attractions Elephants, Tigers, Chital, Mugger, Crocodile, Migratory birds etc.

Don’t miss the… Crocodile Pool, Dhikala Machaan, Getheryo Library (Dhikala), Corbett Museum (Dhangadi gate), Corbett fall, Garjia Temple, Jim Corbett House.

Tour Extension - One can extend trip to Nainital (65 KM appx.), Ranikhet (95 KM. appx.), Other than Kausani and Musoorie.

Park Timings Corbett National Park is partly divided in three zones for public wildlife sighting:

• JHIRNA Range remains open round the year.

• BIJRANI Range from October 1st till June 30th each Year.

• DHIKALA Range from November 15th to June 15th each year.

Choosing the Seasons

• Winter (September - March): Clear and pleasant days. Cold nights. It’s the best time to do some bird watching.

• Summer (April to June): Days are hot and nights are pleasant. It is the ideal time to sight animals like elephant and tigers.

• Monsoon (July - August): Days are humid and nights are tolerable. The best time to go on walking and trekking. Because of less crowd chances of sighting animals increases.

From suited corporate and spectacled students, from bleary eyed BPO agents to bored homemakers, the Corbett is a once in a lifetime opportunity to finally meet the “Tarzan” that is there in each one of you. Give those fatigued nerves a break, switch off your cell and embrace nature, and experience the nerve tingling excitement of the jungle life. We offer special discounts to corporate and families on our packages. Please feel free to contact us to know more about our packages.

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