Jim Corbett National Park is a national park in Nainital district of Uttarakhand estate. It was established in 1936 and in the year 1954 it was renamed Corbett National Park after the hunter and naturalist Jim Corbett, who had played a leading role in its establishment and had died the year before. Jim Corbett National Park is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and falls under the Nainital district, Ramnagar in the Himalayan state of India Uttarakhand. The park was the first to come under the Project Tiger initiative.
Corbett Tiger Reserve is famous for Jungle Safari and Night Stay inside the Jungle . It also has many other fun filled activities for kids . Forest covers almost 73 per cent of the park, while 10 per cent of the area consists of grasslands. It houses around 110 tree species, 50 species of mammals, 580 bird species and 25 reptile species. It has a diverse variety of Flaura and Fauna.
The park is divided into several distinct safari zones, with Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, and Durga Devi being the most popular ones. Each zone offers a different experience, with Dhikala being the most popular for its rich wildlife diversity, while Jhirna and Dhela are accessible throughout the year. While the rest of the zones provide jeep safari, tourists can opt for canter safari in the Dhikala Zone.
If you are planning a trip with a toddler then it is a beautiful place for them to visit and take them near nature, waterfall and wildlife. I visited the place with my 3 year old daughter and she had such a wonderful experience there. The safari was a great experience and she could spot so many animals, she was thrilled. There are various other activities as well which can be explored.
Some of the must do things in Jim Corbett
Jeep Safari
Taking a jungle safari is one the top things to do in Jim Corbett. There are the highest number of tigers in the Jim Corbett National Park and so chances of spotting the tiger is much more. The thrilling experience of spotting wildlife in the lush green forests is such a delight. this park is a must-visit for any Wildlife Enthusiast, Wildlife Photographer, Nature lover, and Bird Watcher.
Yo must book your safari permits online at least 15 – 20 days before visiting as the permits get booked very fast and you will not be able to get the a slot 1-2 days prior.
Night Safari
There is option of Night Safari also available . You can book a night stay permit in Jim Corbett national park . You will require to book your night stay at least 30 days(90 days for Dhikala) in advance of your visit.
There are Forest Rest Houses in all 6 zones of this park, i.e. Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, Sonanadi and Pakhro zone. The Main Benefit of having a Night Stay permit is you have a permit for 2 jeep Safaris(morning & evening each).
Corbett Falls
It is a small waterfall outside the Jim Corbett National Park. It is surrounded by dense teak forests which makes it even more beautiful. The soothing sound of water falling and birds chirping makes it even more beautiful.
Elephant Safari
Elephant safari is one of the best things to do in Jim Corbett. If you like Elephants then it is a must experience. Riding on the back of an elephant, with a trained mahout driving it, is just one of the best things to do in the Corbett Tiger Reserve. Elephant Safari is the best way to explore forestland at a safe height of 9 to 10 feet; from where you can spot mammals, reptiles such as crocodile, python and many species of birds.
The elephant ride follows a definite path to ensure full sightseeing by travellers and tourists; and is available in Dhikala and Bijrani zones only.
River Rafting
River Rafting in Kosi river is very popular in Jim Corbett. Roving the rapids of mighty rivers and the rough currents of swift ones is a thrilling experience. You get to enjoy the rivers natural beauty and explore its hidden treasures. You will also have the opportunity to visit some of the scenic locations in the area, like the Kumaon Hills.
Bird Watching
If you love birds and have a soft corner for the winged mammals, then bird watching is one of the important things to do in Jim Corbett National Park. For many, it is hard to believe that the Corbett Park boasts of over 650 bird species, including migratory birds. The most common birds in Jim Corbett national park are the hornbill, waders, herons, ducks, egrets, Pallases and Osprey Fish Eagle, the blue-throated finch, the pied kingfisher, the ridgeless parakeet, Indian grey hornbill, the spotted dove, and the painted stork.
The winter months are the best time to visit this park for birding because migratory birds visit the area during that time.
Dhikala Grassland, Ramganga River, Kosi River and Sitabani Forest are among the best places for bird watching.
River Crossing
This is an adventure activity which is done at Kosi River Bank. There are 3 rivers that flow through and close to Corbett, namely Corbett river, Ramganga and Kosi River. The rope is tightly bound at both sides of the river and the participants will cross the river by holding the rope and walking through the water of the river.
Camping
Camping is another outdoor activity which is very popular in Jim Corbett. The river and open spaces in the wild provide the perfect setting for camping and a bonfire and some exquisite food make this an enthralling experience. The scenery is breathtaking and the wildlife is fascinating. The experience is truly unforgettable.
Rock Climbing
It is one of the most thrilling outdoor activity in Jim Corbett. The activity requires physical fitness, concentration and teamwork and the reward at the end is the breath-taking view of the surrounding mountain ranges and the forests of the national park. Visitors are provided with all the necessary gear and training required to complete the activity safely and successfully.
Corbett Museum
The museum is now located in the bungalow that used to be the house of the famous conservationist- Jim Corbett- after whom the park has been named. it has lot educational content which provides information about bengal tigers and other animals which reside in the national park. You also get to know about about Jim Corbett and his adventures his efforts to build a safe and habitable environment for the animals. A small shop also sells souvenirs and hand-crafted local items that one can buy.
Stroll by the Kosi River
The clear water of the Kosi River, which originates in Dharpari Dhar in Almora, flows through the National Park, offering visitors a chance to experience the cool winds and scenic beauty it offers. Many of the resorts in Jim Corbett are build near this river and they have access to the river bed which gives the tourists an enjoyable experience to sit by the river and enjoy its beauty and in winters have bonfire near river .
Garjia Temple
It is a sacred temple which is located on a large rock near Kosiriver. It is also one of the most famous temples of Nainital district, which is thronged by thousands of devotees between November and December. You will also get to see the statue of Lakshmi-Narayan (Vishnu).
The statue is made of black granite, a rare stone which isn’t found easily. Visiting this temple on KartikPoornima is considered as most auspicious. It is said that on this day, your wishes will get fulfilled if you offer true prayer and seek blessings.
Few tips when going to Jim Corbett with a toddler
Always carry some woolens as temperature reduces in the night time. Always carry an extra pair of socks and cap.
Carry comfortable footwear as one needs to walk around to enjoy the natural beauty of the river or waterfall . Also carry extra footwear for the child as it can get wet in the waterfall or river.
Plan your itinerary in advance, as there are many things to do in Jim Corbett you should decide before hand what all you want to do as children tend to get cranky quickly if things are not per their interest.
Best time to visit Jim Corbett
Winter (Oct to Feb) – this is the best time to spot tigers and enjoy bird watching. With temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C, the season provides a comfortable climate for safaris.
Summer ( Mar to June ) – wildlife concentrates around waterholes, offering excellent opportunities for animal spotting. This is the best time to observe animals in their natural habitats, although the heat can be intense, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C.
Monsoon (July to sep ) – While heavy rains limit access to some zones, the Jhirna and buffer zones remain open. The park comes alive with lush greenery, making it an ideal time for peaceful treks and exploring the region’s diverse plant life.
Overall it is a wonderful experience and there are many activities available where a toddler and the family can enjoy.
It takes 4.5 Hours to reach Jim Corbett from Delhi via road and it is definitely a wonderful weekend getaway from Delhi. Do plan a trip and share your travel experience.