Jim Corbett National Park is one of the oldest and most popular national parks in India, located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. The park was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park and was later renamed in honor of Jim Corbett, a renowned British hunter, conservationist, and author who played a key role in the park’s establishment.
The park spans an area of over 520 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, sloth bears, and over 600 species of birds. The park is divided into five zones for tourism purposes: Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, and Durgadevi.
Visitors can engage in a variety of activities during their visit to Jim Corbett National Park, such as jungle safaris, bird watching, elephant rides, and nature walks. The park also has a museum dedicated to Jim Corbett, which showcases his life, work, and contribution to wildlife conservation.
The best time to visit the park is from November to June, when the weather is pleasant and the park is open for tourism. However, it is important to note that the park remains closed during the monsoon season (July to October) due to heavy rainfall and the risk of flooding.
To visit Jim Corbett National Park, visitors need to obtain permits from the Forest Department for their chosen zone and activity. It is recommended to book your permits well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred zone, activity, and dates.
Jim Corbett National Park is divided into five safari zones, each with its unique topography and wildlife. One must learn about zones before doing Jim corbett safari booking. Here is a brief overview of the Jim Corbett safari zones:
- Dhikala Zone: The Dhikala zone is the most popular and largest safari zone in Jim Corbett National Park. It is located in the core area of the park and is home to a large population of tigers and other wildlife. Visitors can take a jeep or elephant safari to explore the vast grasslands and dense forests of the zone.
- Bijrani Zone: The Bijrani zone is situated on the eastern side of the park and is known for its rich flora and fauna. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, deer, and elephants. Visitors can take a jeep safari to explore the zone’s picturesque landscapes and tranquil surroundings.
- Jhirna Zone: The Jhirna zone is located on the southern side of the park and is known for its open grasslands and rocky terrain. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including sloth bears, deer, and leopards. Visitors can take a jeep safari to explore the zone’s rugged terrain and scenic beauty.
- Dhela Zone: The Dhela zone is located on the eastern side of the park and is known for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. Visitors can take a jeep safari to explore the zone’s pristine forests and serene surroundings.
- Durgadevi Zone: The Durgadevi zone is located on the north-eastern side of the park and is known for its tranquil surroundings and stunning landscapes. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. Visitors can take a jeep safari to explore the zone’s beautiful forested areas and scenic riverbanks.
Each zone has its unique charm and attractions, and visitors can choose the zone based on their interests and preferences. It is important to note that each zone has a limited number of permits available per day, and it is recommended to book your permits in advance to avoid any last-minute disappointments.