85 Years of blissful wildlife Tourism – Jim Corbett National Park
From luring tourists for its scenic landscapes to offering lots of thrill and excitement for wildlife enthusiasts in the form of safaris and adventures, Jim Corbett National Park has created its place in the hearts of people and wildlife tourism. Being one of the oldest National Parks in India, it has been significantly contributing a lot to protect endangered species and boosting wildlife tourism in India. Jim Corbett National Park turns 85 on 8th August 2021. It was the same day in 1936 8th August, when it came into existence to become the crowning glory of all the National Parks of India.
Let’s take a glimpse at Jim Corbett National Park in Detail
Jim Corbett National Park is one of the best and the oldest habitats for tigers in the Himalayan region. It has the unique distinction of being the place where the famous project called the “Project tiger” or “operation Tiger” was launched in 1973. What makes Jim Corbett a fascinating place to visit is its rich variety of flora and fauna, soothing climate, fairytale-like landscapes and exotic wildlife. It is a perfect destination for wildlife holidays in India. It is the best tiger reserve to enjoy wildlife tourism.
This Park is very famous for having the highest number of tiger population than other Indian National Parks. Located in the Himalayan foothills, near the picturesque hill station of Nainital, Jim Corbett offers the most beautiful views of Garhwal.
Jeep safari is one of the best things to do in Jim Corbett National Park. While on a jeep safari the most amazing views of hills, lakes, rivers, grasslands and waterfalls will definitely inspire your artistic imagination and would also delight your spirit. It is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand.
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Interesting Historical Facts about Jim Corbett National Park
- It is the first National Park of India created during British regime of the united provinces in 1936.
- The most interesting fact about Jim Corbett National Park is that its name changed three times. In 1936, it was named as Hailey National Park. After Independence, its name changed to Ramganga National Park. In 1955, for the third time the name was again changed to Jim Corbett National Park after the death of famous wildlife conservationist Jim Corbett.
- The area of Jim Corbett National Park was expanded to 520.82sq km from 323.75km in 1966.
- One of the most amazing facts about Jim Corbett National Park is that it is the place selected for the launch of Project Tiger by the conservation campaign in 1973.
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Interesting Facts about the flora of the Jim Corbett National Park
- Jim Corbett National Park has a very rich variety of flora which makes it one of the top tourist attractions to visit in Uttarakhand for nature lovers. More than 600 species of trees which consist of grasses, shrubs, bamboo, ferns and climbers and it also has beautiful alpine vegetation.
- One of the most amazing things to know about Jim Corbett National Park’s flora is that 75% of the area is covered by Sal Forests.
- Pine is the only coniferous tree found here which makes sightseeing in Jim Corbett National Park more interesting.
- Kacharan, Semal, forest fire, Dhaka are some of the prominent plants found in Jim Corbett National Park.
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Interesting Facts about the fauna of the Jim Corbett National Park
- Jim Corbett National Park is the best natural habitat for the tiger species in the Himalayan region.
- It is one of the most popular tourist attractions for wildlife holidays in India.
- The Park houses some of the most endangered species like Asian Elephants, Alligators, Sambhar Deer etc.
- Tiger Safari is the best thing to do in Jim Corbett National Park as it is the main attraction of this park.
- Asian Black Bear, Walking Deer, Hog Deer, Sambar, Sloth are some of the most prominent faunal species found in Jim Corbett National Park.
- Corbett Wildlife is more interesting when you know that it houses 600 species of birds. The prominent among them are Great Pied Hornbill, White-backed Vulture. Peacock, Hodgson Bushchat, orange breasted green pigeon, sea eagle, golden Oreo, fish owl etc.
- One of the most lesser-known facts about Jim Corbett National Park is that it also houses endangered reptiles like King Cobra and Mugger Crocodiles.
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Jungle Safari at Jim Corbett National Park
Jungle Safari is the center of attraction and the soul of Jim Corbett Tourism. It is one of the best things to do for your wildlife holidays in India. There are five Safari Zones to enjoy your holidays in Jim Corbett National Park.
- Bijrani Zone – Bijrani zone is one of the best Safari Zones to spot tigers after Dhikala Zone. Picturesque grass fields like dense Sal forests, Chaurs and waterfalls will be an amazing sight to behold. Apart from tigers, Leopards, Elephants, Black Bears, Deer and migratory birds are found in this zone. Elephant safari was the best thing to do here but it is banned by the Uttarakhand High Court as commercial activities related to elephants are strictly prohibited.
- Dhikala zone -It is the most picturesque of all the eco-tourism zones of Jim Corbett National Park. Blissful Ramganga river, Dense Sal Forest, narrow valleys, fresh tint of the green trees will compel you to indulge in wildlife photography. It houses Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Elephants, Sambhar Deer, Hog Deer, Langurs, crocodiles and reptiles will satisfy your search for rich wildlife species.
- Jhirna Zone– It’s one of the most popular zones to visit in Jim Corbett National Park. It was added to the tourism zones of the national park in 1994. Earlier it used to be the farming land of Jhirna Village along with the two other villages but in order to extend the tiger reserve these villages were relocated to other places nearby. This zone is open during the monsoon season along with the Dhela Zone. Jhirna Zone consists of a large grassland known as Laldhang Chaur which houses Deers, Chitals, Nilgais, Elephants etc.
- Dhela Zone– It has the distinction of seeing seven tigers at once in Corbett’s entire history. It is one of the most popular Safari zones to visit in Corbett National Park. It has dense Sal Forests area which are the favorite hunting spot for tigers. It is very famous for bird watching and remains open throughout the year.
- Durgadevi Zone- Picturesque hilly terrains, lush green forests and serene surroundings attracts the tourists from all over the world at Durgadevi Zone of the Corbett Tiger Reserve. It houses a large number of exotic birds. Wild calls of Spotted Deer, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Chital, Rhesus Monkey, Royal Bengal Tiger etc. will blow your heart away. It is one of the best Safari Zones to enjoy your wildlife holidays.
Also Read: Best Destinations to Visit Near Corbett
How to Plan Your Trip to the Jim Corbett National Park?
Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett National Park
- Winter Season : Jim Corbett Park remains open from the month of October to February. The weather is very pleasant for sightseeing and spotting rich wildlife, it is the best time to visit here for your wildlife holidays. Jhirna, Dhikala and Bijrani Safari zone remains open during this season, you can visit this Safari Zone in Winter. This time of the year is the best time for bird watching and spotting endangered species of animals. The temperature comes down to 5-degree Celsius at night but during day time you can spot animals lazing around in the sun.
- Summer Season: Summer season starts from March and ends in June. The temperature remains very high during this time. It is the best time to spot animals as they feel thirsty due to the heat of summer and they come near the water bodies to quench their thirst. During this time, apart from wildlife sightseeing, River Rafting is the best thing to do.
- Monsoon Season: Monsoon is not a very favorable time to enjoy your wildlife holidays. Due to heavy rainfall, there is a risk of soil erosion and landslides. The weather will be wonderful and the environment looks beautiful at its peak with lush greenery but it is not an ideal time for visiting the park. It is the best time to enjoy Trekking here. During Monsoon, the road of Dhikala and Bijrani Safari Zones completely gets washed away which is also very risky for a tourist to explore the area.
How to reach Jim Corbett National Park?
- By Air- The nearest airport to reach Jim Corbett National Park is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. It is actually not an ideal mode of transportation. However, Pantnagar Airport is the nearest Domestic airport to reach here. You can take a Cab or Taxi to reach here from the airport.
- By Rail- Ramnagar Railway Station is the nearest Railway Station to reach Jim Corbett. You will get a direct train to Ramnagar from Delhi.
- By Road- Jim Corbett is very well connected to major cities like Delhi, Ranikhet, Haridwar, Dehradun and Lucknow.
Top Things to Do in Jim Corbett National Park
- The magical landscapes, lush greenery, lofty hills will delight your soul along with the thrilling and adventurous sport of River Rafting at Kosi river. It is one of the best things to do in Jim Corbett National Park.
- Indulge in wildlife photography and enjoy the exotic wildlife in a Jeep Safari.
- Fishing is also one of the most popular things to do in Jim Corbett National Park. You will witness Goonch, Mahseer, in the blissful Ramganga River and Kosi River.
- Cycling in the tranquil forests of Jim Corbett will add a thrill to your journey.
- Old suspension bridge built on Kosi river is the best place for rope slithering.
- Body surfing at Kichadi River is one of the best activities to do with your family and children in Jim Corbett National Park, it is absolutely safe.
- Camping is the most enjoyable activity and it is the best way to spend some quality time with your family and friends.
- Seek divine blessings at Garjia Temple.
How to book your Jim Corbett Safari Online?
If you are planning a trip to Jim Corbett National Park then the most important thing is to book Jim Corbett Safari Online. Jeep Safari is the soul of Jim Corbett Tourism. If you want to enjoy the best of Jim Corbett wildlife then you must enjoy Jeep Safari for a memorable experience. You can book your Safari for the five eco-tourism zones such as Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, Dhikala and Durgadevi. All the procedures of the Safari booking are managed by the forest officials. You can book your Safari from the official website of Jim Corbett National Park.
- Morning Safari Timing –30 am to 9.30 pm
- Afternoon Safari Timing– 2.30 to 5.30pm
To enter the Safari Zone, you will need two kinds of permits. One to enter the park during the day time (Day Visit Permit) and the other to stay inside the government lodges. You can make a booking for a maximum of three nights only.
Where to Stay inside Jim Corbett National Park?
Inside the Jim Corbett National Park, you will get some of the best places to stay to enjoy your wildlife holidays and cherish some good moments.
- Bijrani Safari zone – Bijrani Forest Rest House and Mailani Forest Rest house
- Jhirna Safari zone- Jhirna Forest Rest House, Dhela Forest House
- Durgadevi Zone- Lochachaur Forest Rest House
- Garjia Safari zone- Garjia Forest Rest House and Malani Forest Rest House
- Sitabani Safari Zone– Sitabani Forest Rest House
- Dhikala Forest Rest House– Dhikala Forest Rest House, Gairal Forest Rest House, Sarapduli Forest Rest House and Sultan Forest Rest House.
If you have any other questions, you can freely ask in the comment section. We hope that this blog will help you in planning your Jim Corbett National Park trip to enjoy the best of your wildlife holidays. Jim Corbett National Park is indeed the best National Park to visit in India not only because of its historic significance but also for its rich heritage of flora and fauna. Travelling to Jim Corbett National Park would enrich your wildlife travel experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What are the top attractions to visit near Jim Corbett National Park?
Top tourist attractions to visit near Jim Corbett National Park are:
- Nainidanda
- Bhowali
- Gujru Garhi
- Ramgarh
- Mukteshwar
- Jogeshwar
- Haldwani
- Nainital
- Bhimtal
- Sattal
Q.Can we enjoy Elephant Safari in Jim Corbett National Park?
No, you cannot enjoy Elephant Safari at Jim Corbett National Park because commercial use of elephants is banned by the Uttarakhand High Court.
Q.Is open Jeep Safari safe in Jim Corbett National Park?
Yes, open Jeep Safari is absolutely safe in Jim Corbett. You need to book your safari online in advance.
Q.Which Zone is best for night stay in Jim Corbett National Park?
Dhikala tourism Zone is the best zone to stay in Jim Corbett National Park. It is best for hard core wildlife enthusiasts.
Q.Can we also witness Lions in Jim Corbett National Park?
No, you cannot witness Lions in Jim Corbett because it doesn't shelter Lions, it houses 231 tigers. It is a Tiger Reserve.
Q.What is the do’s and Don’ts to follow while visiting Jim Corbett National Park?
Some precautions need to be taken while visiting Jim Corbett National Park-
- Permit is compulsory to enter the park premises.
- Do not disturb and feed wild animals for your safety.
- Do not play loud music.
- Do not litter in the park.
- Wear clothes that blend with nature such as khaki, olive green etc.
- Smoking, drinking and lighting is strictly prohibited in the park premises.
- Non-vegetarian food is strictly prohibited within the Jim Corbett National Park.
- Do not enter the park after sunset.
Q.What is the best time to visit Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve?
The best time to visit Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve is November to mid-May. It remains open from 15th November to 30th June.
About the author
She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.