Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park is one of India’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it holds the distinction of being India’s oldest national park and the birthplace of “Project Tiger.”Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, it is famous for its Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Elephants, and diverse birdlife.

Here is a streamlined guide to help you plan your visit.

1. The Best Time to Visit

The park is divided into different zones, and their opening times vary.

• Winter (Nov – Feb):The most popular time. The weather is crisp and pleasant (5°C to 25°C). It is excellent for bird watching and general safari experiences.
  • Note: It can get very cold in open jeeps during morning safaris; heavy woolens are a must.
• Summer (March – June): Best for Tiger Sightings. As the temperature rises (up to 40°C), animals congregate around water bodies, making them easier to spot. The vegetation is also thinner, improving visibility.
• Monsoon (July – Sep): Most core zones (Dhikala, Bijrani) are closed. However, the Jhirna and Dhela zones often remain open. It is lush and green, but safari options are limited.

2. Decoding the Safari Zones

The park is massive. Where you go determines what you see. You cannot cross between zones once you are inside.

Zone	Best For	Status/Open Period
Dhikala	The Top Choice. Largest zone with arguably the best landscape (grasslands + river). High tiger density.	Open Nov 15 – June 15. Note: You usually cannot do a Jeep safari here unless you have a night stay booking at the Dhikala Forest Lodge. Day visitors are restricted to Canter (bus) safaris.
Bijrani	Tiger Spotting. Very popular for day visitors. Dense Sal forests and high probability of tiger sightings.	Open Oct 15 – June 30.
Jhirna	Year-Round Access. Good for bears and elephants. Famous because it stays open during monsoons.	Open All Year.
Dhela	Birding & Flora. A newer zone, also open year-round. Known for diverse bird species.	Open All Year.
Durga Devi	Scenic/Hilly. Located on the north-eastern boundary. Best for Mahseer fish, otters, and birds.	Open Nov 15 – June 15.

3. How to Book a Safari (Crucial Info)

There is a massive problem with “fake” official websites that look like government sites but are private agencies charging premiums.

• The ONLY Official Website: corbettonline.uk.gov.in
• Booking Window: Bookings usually open 45 days in advance. For Dhikala and Bijrani, permits sell out within minutes of opening.
• Types of Safari:
  • Jeep Safari: Seats 6 people. Best for maneuverability.
  • Canter Safari: 16-seater open bus. Only available for the Dhikala zone for day visitors.

4. Where to Stay

• Inside the Park (Forest Rest Houses): This is the ultimate experience. You stay inside the core jungle (electricity and food are basic). Dhikala FRH is the most coveted. You must book this on the government website months in advance.
• Outside the Park (Resorts): There are hundreds of luxury resorts in Ramnagar and along the river Kosi. You stay in luxury here and take a jeep to the entry gates (Amdanda, Dhangarhi, etc.) for your safari.

5. How to Reach

• By Train: The nearest station is Ramnagar (RMR).
  • Top Pick: The Ranikhet Express (15013) leaves Delhi at roughly 10:00 PM and arrives in Ramnagar at 5:00 AM, just in time for the morning safari.
• By Road: It is about a 5-6 hour drive (~250 km) from Delhi. The route generally goes via Hapur – Moradabad – Kashipur – Ramnagar.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar (PGH), about 2 hours away, but flights are limited.

6. Quick Pro-Tips

• Carry ID: You must carry the same original ID (Aadhaar/Passport) you used for booking the permit. They check it strictly at the gate.
• No Polythene: Corbett is a plastic-free zone. Do not take chips packets or plastic bottles inside.
• Colors: Wear earth tones (greens, browns, beige). Avoid bright reds or whites to not startle wildlife.

Would you like me to help you check the safari permit availability for specific dates, or suggest a 2-day itinerary based on your travel style?