Jim Corbett National Park – A Comprehensive Guide
About - Jim Corbett National Park
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is India's oldest and most prestigious national park. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was later renamed in honor of the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett. Spanning an area of 1,318 sq. km, the park is part of the Corbett Tiger Reserve and is renowned for its Royal Bengal Tigers and stunning landscapes.
Jim Corbett's diverse terrain, which includes hills, grasslands, rivers, and lakes, makes it a haven for wildlife lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Geographical Details
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Altitude: 400m to 1,200m above sea level
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Coordinates: 29°25’ N to 29°39’ N
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Rainfall: 1,400 mm annually
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Temperature:
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Winter: 5°C (Min)
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Summer: 40°C (Max)
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How to Reach Jim Corbett National Park
By Flight
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (85 km). From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi to reach the park’s entry gates.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Ramnagar Railway Station (12 km), which is well-connected to cities like Delhi and Moradabad.
By Road
Jim Corbett is accessible via road:
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Delhi: 240 km (5-hour drive)
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Nainital: 65 km (2-hour drive)
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Dehradun: 160 km (4-hour drive)
Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett National Park
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Winter (November – February): Ideal for safaris and birdwatching, with cool weather.
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Summer (March – June): Best for tiger sightings near water sources.
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Monsoon (July – October): The park remains partially open, with select zones accessible.
Wildlife at Jim Corbett National Park
Corbett is home to a variety of wildlife species, including:
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Royal Bengal Tiger: The park’s most iconic predator.
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Indian Leopard: Frequently sighted in the buffer zones.
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Elephant: Often seen in herds along the riverbanks.
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Crocodile: Found near rivers and lakes.
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Hog Deer: A rare species found grazing in the grasslands.
Bird species include:
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Crested Serpent Eagle
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Kingfisher
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Great Hornbill
Reptiles include gharials, monitor lizards, and cobras.
Best Places to Visit Inside and Near Jim Corbett National Park
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Dhikala Zone
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Known for its grasslands and frequent tiger sightings.
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Bijrani Zone
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A popular safari zone with rich wildlife diversity.
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Jhirna Zone
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Open throughout the year, ideal for birdwatching.
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Garjia Temple (14 km)
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A famous temple located on a rock amidst the Kosi River.
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Corbett Falls (25 km)
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A scenic waterfall surrounded by lush forests.
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Kosi River
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A picturesque river offering opportunities for angling and picnics.
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Nainital (65 km)
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A nearby hill station known for its serene lakes and colonial charm.
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Types of Safaris in Jim Corbett National Park
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Jeep Safari
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Description: Private or shared Jeep Safaris for close encounters with wildlife.
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Timings:
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Morning: 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM
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Evening: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
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Capacity: 6 visitors per Jeep.
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Canter Safari
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Description: Group safaris in larger open vehicles, ideal for exploring the Dhikala Zone.
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Capacity: 16–20 visitors.
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Elephant Safari
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Description: Explore the park’s buffer zones on the back of an elephant.
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Safari Zones in Jim Corbett National Park
The park is divided into several zones, each offering unique experiences:
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Dhikala Zone: Known for its grasslands and large herds of elephants.
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Bijrani Zone: A popular zone for tiger sightings.
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Jhirna Zone: Open year-round and ideal for birdwatching.
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Dhela Zone: A buffer zone rich in wildlife.
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Durga Devi Zone: A picturesque zone with dense forests and rivers.
Accommodations in Jim Corbett National Park
Patlidun Safari Lodge
The Riverview Retreat
Taj Corbett Resort & Spa
Jim’s Jungle Retreat
Aahana Resort
