Wild life

The best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park for wildlife viewing is from November to June, particularly during the dry season. During this period, the vegetation is sparse, and animals, including tigers and elephants, are more easily spotted around water sources.

Seasonal Breakdown:

• November to February (Winter): This is an ideal time for wildlife sightings due to the cool weather, making safaris comfortable. It’s also a great time for birdwatching, as migratory birds visit the park.
• March to June (Summer): As the temperature rises, animals frequently gather near rivers and water bodies, increasing chances of tiger and elephant sightings. It is considered the peak season for wildlife enthusiasts.
• July to September (Monsoon): The park is partially closed during the monsoon, with only the Jhirna and Dhela zones open. Heavy rains make wildlife spotting more difficult and the terrain muddy.

Overall, the dry months from November to June are the best for wildlife safaris in Jim Corbett.

Jim Corbett National Park is well-connected by air, train, and road, making it accessible from major cities. Here’s how to reach the park:

1. By Air

• The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located about 80 km from Jim Corbett. However, it has limited flight options.
• The more frequently used airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, about 260 km from the park. From Delhi, you can drive or take a train to the park.

2. By Train

• The nearest railway station is Ramnagar, just 12 km from the park’s main entry gate. Ramnagar is well-connected to Delhi and other major cities.
• Popular trains include the Ranikhet Express and Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express, which operate daily between Delhi and Ramnagar.

3. By Road

• Jim Corbett is easily accessible by road, and you can drive or take a bus from Delhi (260 km), Nainital (65 km), or Dehradun (170 km).
• Several buses (private and government-run) operate from Delhi and nearby towns to Ramnagar.
• You can also hire taxis from Delhi, Nainital, or Dehradun for a more comfortable journey.

Once you reach Ramnagar, local transport options like taxis and jeeps can take you to your accommodation and safari zones inside Jim Corbett National Park.

Jim Corbett National Park is not only renowned for its wildlife safaris but also for the scenic beauty and diverse attractions in and around the park. Here are some of the key places to visit within and nearby the park:

1. Dhikala Zone

• Famous for: Tiger sightings and breathtaking views of the Ramganga River.
• Highlight: The Dhikala Forest Rest House, which offers overnight stays and panoramic views of the grasslands and wildlife.
• Safari: Jeep and canter safaris are popular for exploring this core zone.

2. Bijrani Zone

• Famous for: Dense forests and a high probability of spotting elephants, tigers, and other wildlife.
• Highlight: Known for its picturesque landscapes and easy access, making it a favorite for day visitors.
• Safari: Jeep safaris are available.

3. Jhirna Zone

• Famous for: Open throughout the year, it offers great chances to spot wildlife such as sloth bears, tigers, and leopards.
• Highlight: Rich vegetation and diverse wildlife make it a popular zone for nature lovers.
• Safari: Jeep safaris.

4. Garjia Devi Temple

• Location: About 14 km from Ramnagar, near the park.
• Famous for: A temple dedicated to Goddess Garjia, situated on a large rock in the middle of the Kosi River.
• Highlight: Picturesque setting, popular with both devotees and tourists for its scenic beauty and spirituality.

5. Corbett Waterfall

• Location: Around 25 km from Ramnagar, near Kaladhungi.
• Famous for: A serene waterfall surrounded by dense forests.
• Highlight: Perfect for nature lovers and a picnic spot, offering peace and tranquility.

6. Sitabani Forest Reserve

• Famous for: A birdwatching paradise, with dense forest trails and less crowded than other zones.
• Highlight: Mythologically significant, as it is believed that Sita from the Ramayana stayed here during her exile. Offers walking trails for nature enthusiasts.
• Activities: Birdwatching, nature walks, and exploring ancient temples.

7. Kalagarh Dam

• Location: On the Ramganga River, within the buffer zone of the park.
• Famous for: Picturesque views of the reservoir and a spot for birdwatching.
• Highlight: A perfect place for photography, especially during sunset and for spotting water birds and crocodiles.

8. Kosi River

• Famous for: Scenic beauty and being a lifeline for the park’s wildlife.
• Highlight: Visitors can enjoy relaxing by the river, fishing (with permission), and wildlife viewing, as animals often visit the riverbanks to drink.

9. Dhangarhi Museum

• Location: Near the Dhangarhi Gate of the park.
• Famous for: Exhibits related to the history of Jim Corbett, wildlife, and the park’s conservation efforts.
• Highlight: An informative visit where tourists can learn about the park’s flora, fauna, and history through artifacts and taxidermy displays.

10. Durga Devi Zone

• Famous for: Birdwatching and spotting fish-eating crocodiles and otters in the Ramganga River.
• Highlight: A rugged terrain ideal for bird lovers, offering scenic drives through the hills.

These attractions provide a mix of wildlife, nature, spirituality, and history, making Jim Corbett National Park an all-around destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Jim Corbett National Park offers a variety of activities for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and nature lovers. Here are some of the top things to do in and around the park:

1. Wildlife Safaris

• Jeep Safaris: Explore different zones of the park, such as Dhikala, Bijrani, and Jhirna, with trained guides to spot wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and various bird species.
• Canter Safaris: Open-bus safaris in the Dhikala zone are available for larger groups and offer a different perspective of the park’s wildlife.

2. Birdwatching

• Jim Corbett is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 600 species of birds. Early morning safaris or visits to the Sitabani Forest Reserve and Kalagarh Dam provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

3. Nature Walks and Trekking

• Guided nature walks allow you to explore the park’s flora and fauna on foot. Trekking options are also available in areas like Sitabani and along the Kosi River, offering a chance to connect with nature.

4. Elephant Rides

• Enjoy a unique experience with elephant rides in designated zones, providing a different perspective for wildlife spotting.

5. Fishing

• Fishing is allowed in some areas of the Kosi River, but it requires prior permission from the forest department. This can be a relaxing way to enjoy the natural surroundings.

6. Visit Garjia Devi Temple

• A short trip to this beautiful temple, located on a rock in the Kosi River, offers a spiritual experience along with stunning views.

7. Picnicking at Corbett Waterfall

• Spend a day relaxing at the picturesque Corbett Waterfall, surrounded by nature. It’s a great spot for a picnic and offers a serene environment.

8. Explore Dhangarhi Museum

• Visit the museum near the Dhangarhi gate to learn about the park’s history, wildlife, and conservation efforts. It features exhibits on flora and fauna, as well as artifacts related to Jim Corbett.

9. Photography

• The park's stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant flora make it a fantastic destination for photography. Capture the beauty of the natural environment and its inhabitants.

10. Adventure Activities

• Some nearby resorts offer adventure activities like river rafting, rock climbing, and rappelling, adding an adrenaline rush to your visit.

11. Cultural Experiences

• Engage with local communities to learn about their traditions, lifestyle, and the significance of conservation in their culture.

12. Camping

• Experience the wilderness by camping in designated areas or at nearby eco-friendly resorts, where you can enjoy a night under the stars.

These activities make Jim Corbett National Park a diverse destination, offering something for everyone, from wildlife enthusiasts to adventure seekers and those looking to relax in nature.