One of the Oldest National Parks in India
The Jim Corbett National Park, nestled in the Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand, is one of India's oldest national parks. Situated in the Nainital district, it is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. The park became India's first reserve focused on tiger conservation in 1973.
Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was later renamed Ramganga National Park after India’s independence, and finally in 1956, it was named Jim Corbett National Park in honor of Edward James Corbett, a British hunter-turned-conservationist who pioneered the protection of man-eating tigers and promoted wildlife preservation.
The park’s location in the sub-Himalayan belt and its focus on Bengal tiger conservation make it an adventure and eco-tourism hotspot. Visitors can enjoy dense forests, scenic landscapes, fishing, trekking, elephant rides, safaris, and camping.
Tourist attractions in Jim Corbett National Park
Flora: The park hosts 488 varieties of flora. Common trees include Sal, Ber, Khair, Semal, Kharpat, Pula, Bakli, and Bamboo. Rare flowering species include Amaltas, Indian Coral, Flame of the Forest, Kachnaar, and Semal, while Chir Pine represents a rare coniferous species. Artificially planted trees include Silver Oak, Teak, Bottlebrush, Jacaranda, and Eucalyptus. Additionally, 70 grass varieties such as Khus Khus, Khansi, Spear Grass, Narkul, and Bhabar flourish in the park.
Fauna: Approximately 586 wildlife species inhabit the park. It is renowned for protecting Bengal tigers. Other wildlife includes Sambar Deer, Nilgai, King Cobra, Indian Pangolin, Gharial, Musk Shrew, and Wild Boars. The park is home to around 600 bird species, such as Kingfisher, Wagtail, Thrush, Partridge, Magpie, Minivet, Bunting, Sunbird, Dove, Woodpecker, and Bulbul, along with 33 reptile species, including the Indian Python.
Excursions from Jim Corbett National Park
Sitabani Forest Reserve: A buffer zone of the park, Sitabani comprises 19 villages and features jeep and elephant safaris. It also houses the famous Sitabani Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Corbett Waterfalls: Located 25 km from Ramnagar, the 60-foot waterfall is a popular camping site with serene surroundings. Nearby, the Nature Walk Museum offers additional exploration opportunities.
Sun Rise Point: The highest peak in the park, near Bhuwankhal Village, offers breathtaking views of the sunrise and the rivers Kosi and Ramganga.
When to Reach:
Jim Corbett National Park has five zones with varying opening periods. Jhirna, Sonanadi, and Sitabani Zones are open year-round. Dhikala Zone is open from 15th November to 15th June, Bijrani Zone from 1st October to 30th June, and Durga Devi Zone from 15th November to 15th June.
How to Reach:
Air: Pantnagar Airport, 50 km from the park.
Rail: Ramnagar Railway Station, 12 km away.
Road: From Delhi, travel 295 km via Hapur, Garhmukeshwar, Moradabad, and Ramnagar to reach the park.
