Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett National park is situated in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, a northern state of India. The park got its name from the famous author and wildlife conservationist Jim Corbett. His love for nature not only lead to the formation of this sanctuary but also gave a gift to the wildlife enthusiasts who see this park as a muse for wildlife exploration.
History
The area was previously owned by local rulers before the British came in. A huge part of this park used to belong to the state of Tehri Garhwal. The local tribes grew cops in the land of this Park. This led to major exploitation and damage to natural resources. But the British took measures to prevent this from happening. Cultivation and cattle grazing was strictly prohibited. It is known that Major Ramsay first suggested the first idea to conserve and protect the forest.
In the year 1934, an enactment was propositioned by Sir Malcolm Hailey, to protect the one. It started with the name Hailey National Park in 1936. Later it was changed to Ramganga National Park in 1955. The great human, writer, and wildlife conversationalist Jim Corbett worked very hard to recreate and establish the reserve. His contribution towards serving this park was humungous and the park recognized his efforts by giving an ode in 1956, by renaming it as Jim Corbett National Park.
General Information
Location: Nainital District, Uttarakhand
Altitude: 1143 m above sea level
Annual rainfall: 1400-2800 mm
Temperature: winter 4°C / summer. 42°C
Flora and Fauna Corbett National Park
Flora at Jim Corbett Park
The Jim Corbett National Park is a heaven for nature lovers. If you want to take a break from hectic city life, this is the place for you. It has provided shelter for so many kinds of trees and animals. The natural habitat untouched by the modern age provides ample help to the flora and fauna to grow. There are about 100 kinds of trees, 50 kinds of shrubs, 27 kinds of climbers, and 30 kinds of grass and bamboo are found in this national park. The prominent trees that cover around 70% of the main area are called Sal Shorea Robusta.
Fauna at Jim Corbett Park
The park has played a very pivotal role in providing shelter to so many wonderful species. Its contribution towards preserving the diminishing tiger is commendable. You can come here to see animals roaming in their natural habitat. This park can be a gift for wildlife photographers.
Mammals: Royal Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Leopard, Jungle Cat, Hog Deer, Spotted Deer, Rhesus Monkey, Barking Deer, Chital, Sambar Deer, Wild Boar, and Jackal, etc.
Reptiles: Gharial, King Cobra, Krait Cobra, Indian Crocodile, Russels Viper, Python and Monitor Lizard, etc.
There are more than six hundred species of birds, both migrating and resident found in this park. The rivers carry bountiful of fishes in their water.
Activities to do in Jim Corbett Park
Welcome to Jim Corbett where the Bengal Tigers enjoy a blissful and peaceful life. This is because the officials of the tiger reserve ensure that the habitat stays untouched during monsoon season. Also, only a few canters and jeeps are allowed to enter at a time. With so many restrictions and rules, the animals enjoy their natural habitat.
There are multiple things to do in Jim Corbett. We have jotted down the activities in this area. Let us take a quick look!
Jeep Safari in Corbett
A jeep safari is the best way to explore the wilderness. The open jeep has space for 6 adults and 2 children. It is mandatory for the patrons to take a guide along with them. Whether it is spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger or the famous Mahseer fish, a guide would know the best spots to witness the true beauty of the jungle.
Corbett is home to approximately 500 species of birds and animals. You will certainly get to see the sambar deer, wild elephant, and exotic birds.
The best time to visit Jim Corbett for jeep safari is from November to June. During monsoon season, the animals and birds need complete privacy and there is no fun in going for a safari while it is raining. Out of all the six zones, Bijrani is considered to be the best for a jeep safari. There are higher chances of spotting the majestic tiger.
However, it is accessible from 5th October to 30th June. During monsoon season, the gates are closed to enter this zone. If you are visiting this zone, there are two slots available. In the spring season, the gates are open from 5:45 AM and 2:30 PM. In the winter season, the gates are open from 6:30 PM and 1:00 PM.
Jhirna and Dhela zone is open throughout the year. The timing is the same as above, but these zones are accessible at any time of the year.
Canter Safari in Jim Corbett Park
Patrons can go for a canter safari in Dhikala Zone. During winters, the entry timing is 6 AM and 11:30 AM. In the spring season, the gates open at 5:45 AM and 12:30 PM. There are vehicle restrictions in every zone. Only 2 canter safaris are allowed in one slot. This means 32 people will be able to go for the safari in one slot.
Corbett Tiger Reserve Authority organizes the canter safari tours. It is best to reserve your seat beforehand. In one shift, the safari takes approximately 5 hours. Tourists reserve a seat a month before heading to Corbett. You must book it too! A guide shall come along with you for safety purposes. Also, they know the jungle very well and it is best to visit the jungle with a gunman or a naturist.
Elephant Ride in Corbett
The commercial use of majestic elephants has been banned in Uttarakhand. This is because the animals get hurt during commercial use. This decision was made in the year 2018! Although it is a big disappointment for safari enthusiasts, the animal activists ensured that the animals should not get hurt in any way!
Paragliding in Corbett
If you are up for some adventure, head to Kotabagh for paragliding. If you want to fly and get an aerial view of Uttarakhand, this is the best activity for you. Anyone can perform this activity as an instructor goes with you. It is located 27 kilometers away from Jim Corbett and takes 30 minutes to reach the destination.
You can simply fly in the air and make a quick video of your adventure. You cannot miss this opportunity! The Kota Valley is mesmerizing and the tour operators ensure that your safety is a priority.
Adventure Activities
You can indulge in many other adventure activities near Jim Corbett. In Kota Bagh, there are rope-based adventure activities such as flying fox. It is going to be 7 meters above the river. River crossing, rock climbing, rappelling, hiking, and trekking are other exciting activities that you can indulge near Jim Corbett.
Nature Trekking
Nature trekking is the best activity for people who love being close to the environment. There are lush green forests, trails, and birds to witness. There are many expert guides who organize nature treks. If you are staying in a resort, they will arrange the nature trek for you. Additionally, there are tour operators who organize nature walks in the morning.
Birding in Corbett
Did you know that there are bird watching tour packages as well? You can opt for these and watch the most exotic birds. You may have never seen such colorful and unique birds around your house. This is because Jim Corbett is home to hundreds of species of birds. Don’t forget to take your camera along! Make sure that it does not have flash or irksome sounds. You must never scare the birds away! It is their habitat and we must respect their privacy.
There are approximately 550 species of birds here and is considered to be a rich spot for birding. You can witness birds like the red-headed vulture, great hornbill, broadbill, racket-tailed drongo, barbet, and many more species. Mongoli Valley is considered to be the best spot for watching birds.
Fishing in Corbett Park
Mahseer is a famous fish that can be found in the river. There is Goonch (Cat Fish), silver Mahsheer, black mahseer, and golden Mahseer. The authority takes good care of the animals and birds of the reserve. You are not allowed to do fishing in the reserve because the Mahseer fish is the pride of the area.
However, you can visit the Kosi River and do fishing. Opt for a fishing tour and all the necessary tools will be provided to you by the expert. The activity requires a lot of patience! Ramganga River in the Marchula Village is also a great spot for fishing. You can do fishing in the deep waters and enjoy the beautiful sight of the area.
Head to Jim Corbett for an Exciting Tour
Jim Corbett is a great place for adventurers, peace-seekers, and nature lovers. If you are up for some adventure or peace, head to this tiger reserve. Even in the monsoon season, there are certain zones that are open. You can also enjoy sitting by the River Kosi and seeking blessings of Garjia Devi.
Make sure you book your canter safari/jeep safari ride beforehand!
Places to visit in Corbett
Few places to visit near Jim Corbett Park are – Birjani, Jhirna, Garjia Temple, Corbett Museum, Bhimtal, Corbett Water Falls, Sitabani Forest Reserve, Sunrise Point, Nainital, Ranikhet, Ramnagar, etc.
