Honored with the title of a national park in 1936, Jim Corbett – The Famous Abode of the Tigers is Asia’s very first national park. However, the conservation of this land started way back in 1868, as it was the time when the British Forest Department excluded agricultural activities and operation of cattle stations here.
Since then, there has been no looking back. Initially, this park was named after Sir Malcolm Hailey, the Governor of United Provinces, and thus, was popularly known as ‘Hailey National Park’.
The saga doesn’t end here; within a short span of time, it was again renamed as ‘Jim Corbett National Park’ to honor Edward James Jim Corbett—the man who contributed a lot to the establishment of the park.
The conservation thus started, always saw an upward graph. In 1973, Corbett National Park stood as the first Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger – an initiative to protect the big striped cats.
Today, Corbett National Park is one of India’s most visited wildlife destinations. From the tiger’s roar that gives you goosebumps to the chirping of the birds that sounds like music to your ears, wildlife flourishes in Corbett. The wild beings not only dwell here, but they grow here.
Popular Corbett Tour Packages
Our Corbett tour packages are tailored to meet your travel preferences, offering thrilling wildlife safaris, tranquil birdwatching opportunities, and best stay options. Book your Corbett tour package to immerse yourself in the wonders of this rich wildlife reserve and create memories that last a lifetime.
Corbett National Park offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler. From luxurious resorts with spa services and fine dining to cozy wilderness cottages, options abound near safari zones like Bijrani, Jhirna, and Dhikala. For a truly immersive experience, stay inside the park at historic forest rest houses like Dhikala or Gairal, surrounded by stunning views and the vibrant jungle nightlife. Your perfect stay awaits!
Luxury Resorts
Corbett Leela Vilas
(1,231)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
The Hridayesh Wilderness
(989)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Corbett Hideaway
(1,023)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Infinity Resort
(1,500)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Solluna Resort
(1,273)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Brys Caves
(1,244)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Aahana Resort
(1,247)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
The Golden Tusk
(1,100)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Deluxe Resorts
Camp Riverwild Resort
(1,211)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Wild Crest Resort
(1,400)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Tarika’S Jungle Park
(2,122)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Corbett River View Retreat
(1,721)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Ramganga Resort
(2,021)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Manu Maharani Resort
(2,014)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Ashoka’s Tiger Trail
(2,122)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Standard Hotels
Corbett Heaven Resort
(1,721)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Parwati Wild Abode
(2,433)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Jungle Paradise Resort
(2,456)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Pine Tree Village Resort
(1,455)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Corbett Machan Resort
(1,122)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Ashoka’s Tiger Trail Resort
(2,000)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Jungle Camps & Retreat
(1,127)Reviews
Starting from ₹5500
Next Adventure
Travel Destinations Near Corbette
A vacation in Corbett Sanctuary thrills every wildlife enthusiast, but nearby gems like Nainital, Ranikhet, and Bhimtal elevate the experience with serene lakes and breathtaking views. Explore the beautiful hill stations like Almora, Pangot, Naukuchiatal, Sattal, or Mukteshawar, which offer a fusion of spirituality and adventure all under a distance of 100 km from Jim Corbett wildlife sancturary. Pairing these destinations with a Corbett safari creates a richer and more fulfilling Uttarakhand journey.
Nainital
Explore the serene lakes and lush hills of Nainital with a picturesque road trip.
The best time to visit Corbett depends on the type of experience you are looking for. Corbett is most known for being home to the largest population of Bengal tigers, but there is much more to it. This national park looks and feels different in every season. Many visit solely to spot tigers, while others are captivated by its fascinating landscapes. So, let us discuss what kind of experiences one can have in different seasons at Corbett National Park.
Summer Season (March to June)
Though the temperature in summer in Corbett Tiger Reserve climbs to its maximum, ranging from 36°C to 45°C, the season also is the best time to visit Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve if one wants to maximize the animal sighting. Dry grasslands make tiger and other animal sightings easier as they frequently visit their nearest water sources.
Monsoon Season (July to September)
Monsoon turns the wilderness into a lush beauty but the conditions are less favourable for animal spotting in the Jungle. The trails are slippery and thick vegetation reduces visibility significantly. Additionally, monsoon is the mating season for many wildlife species. Thus, all major and core zones including Dhikala are closed during this period. However, buffer zones like Jhirna, Dhela, and Garjia stay open. If you love to explore the gentleness and vibrant facade of the forest, monsoon is the right time to visit Corbett National Park.
Winter Season (November to February)
This is the best time to visit Corbett National Park , as the weather is cool, pleasant, and most comfortable for open jeep safaris in the forests. The temperature during this season ranges between 5°C and 20°C, offering enjoyable jungle safaris with excellent wildlife sightings during the day, as animals come out into open fields to bask in the sun. Winter is also an excellent time for birdwatchers, as multiple migratory birds flock here.
Safari Timings in Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve
Safari
Duration
Summer
Winter
Morning Safari
3 to 3.5 hours
5:30 AM - 9:00 AM
6:30 AM- 10:00 AM
Afternoon Safari
3 to 3.5 hours
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
1:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Canter Safari Timings for Corbett National Park (Only available in Dhikala Zone)
Safari
Duration
Summer
Winter
Morning Safari
5 to 5.5 hours
6:00 AM - 11:00 AM
7:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Afternoon Safari
5 to 5.5 hours
11:30 AM - 4:30 PM
12:30 PM - 5:30 PM
*Note: Safari timings in Corbett Tiger Reserve can vary depending on the season and the specific zone you plan to visit.
Safari Zones at Corbett
Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) has a massive area of 1288.31 sq km and hosts varied experiences at different parts of the forest. The park is strategically divided into eight safari zones, offering unique experiences every time you choose a different safari zone.
These zones showcase diverse landscapes, from dense Sal forests to serene hills and reservoirs. Each zone is known for their own unique features and experiences. While Dhikala Zone is highly reputed for high tiger sightings, Dhela is known for its elephant population. Some of the zones remain open throughout the year, while others offer excellent birdwatching during specific times in the year. Offering a harmonious blend of adventure and serenity, here is the list of Safari Zones in Corbett Tiger Reserve.
Zone Name
Location
Visiting Time
Entry Gate
Dhikala
Central (core area)
November 15 - June 15
Dhangadi Gate
Bijrani
Southern edge
October 1 - June 30
Aamdanda Gate
Jhirna
Southern boundary
All year (subject to weather)
Dhela Gate
Dhela
Southern buffer
All year (subject to weather)
Dhela Gate
Durga Devi
Northeastern region
November 15 - June 15
Durga Devi Gate
Pakhro
Northern region (near Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary)
October 15 - June 15
Pakhro Gate (or Vatanvasa Gate)
Sonanadi
Northern part (wildlife sanctuary)
October 1 - June 30
Vatanvasa Gate
Garjia
Eastern boundary (buffer and core areas)
All year (subject to weather)
Aamdanda Gate
Safari Types in Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve
Corbett Tiger Reserve offers two thrilling safari options to explore its rich biodiversity: The Jeep Safari and the Canter Safari.
1.Jeep safaris provide an intimate and flexible experience, ideal for small groups and photography enthusiasts, accommodating up to 6 passengers and navigating through narrower trails.
2.Canter safaris cater to larger groups, carrying up to 16 people in open trucks that follow a fixed route and schedule, covering a broader area of the park.
Both options last around 4 hours, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Corbett’s vibrant wilderness. Your choice depends on group size, flexibility, and the kind of experience you are seeking.
Open vehicle, max 6 people, best for photography and tiger tracking
Canter Safari
Dhikala only
Morning: 6:00 AM Afternoon: 12:00 PM
5-6 hours
16-seater bus, cost-effective, deep forest access
Fauna in Jim Corbett National Park
With its remarkable variety of wildlife, Corbett Tiger Reserve is a top spot for nature lovers. It is home to the highest density of Bengal tigers, making tiger sightings a thrilling highlight. On a typical day in Corbett, you’ll witness Asian elephants gracefully traversing the grasslands and leopards lurking in the shadows, adding to the park's untamed charm.
As you explore further, keep an eye out for reptiles like the Indian python, king cobra, and common cobra slithering through the rocks and undergrowth. If that’s not enough, Corbett is also a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting hundreds of resident and migratory avian species. As you explore further, keep an eye out for reptiles like the Indian python, king cobra, and common cobra slithering through the rocks and undergrowth. If that’s not enough, Corbett is also a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting hundreds of resident and migratory avian species.
Flaura in Jim Corbett National Park
Corbett National Park is home to a diverse range of plant life that supports its lively ecosystem. The park’s mixed deciduous forest, dominated by Sal trees, includes species like Dhak, Rohini, Haldu, and bamboo, providing refuge for numerous wildlife species.
The grasslands, which house Kansi, Narkul, and Khus Khus, are essential grazing areas for herbivores and hunting territories for predators. Bamboo groves serve as an essential food source for herbivores, while fruit-bearing trees and shrubs such as Karonda and Hisar provide sustenance for langurs, macaques, and various bird species.
Birding in Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve
Within the vast expanse of Corbett Tiger Reserve, a lively symphony of 580 bird species delights nature lovers. From the majestic great hornbill gliding through the dense Sal canopies to the crested serpent eagle scanning the grasslands for prey, the park offers a visual treat for bird enthusiasts.
Corbett's rich avian life thrives across its forests, grasslands, wetlands, and along the shimmering Ramganga River, where multiple rare and extremely beautiful species captivate the eyes. You will witness species like forktails, ibis bill, and Himalayan kingfisher dazzle with their swift, precise movements, while larger birds like the great hornbill, crested serpent eagle, and pallas's fish eagle dominate the skies with their commanding yet graceful flights.
Among the hundreds of species that call Corbett home, notable sightings include Grey Herons, Egrets, Cattle Egrets, White-necked and Black-necked Storks, Black-winged Kites, Indian Shikra, Green Pigeons, Parakeets, Cuckoos, Hornbills, Barbets, Woodpeckers, and multiple Owl species which emerge under the veil of night.
Book Your Safari to Corbett
Ready for a wild adventure? Book your Corbett safari with us now! Choose from jeep or canter options, select your preferred zone and dates, and provide your ID details. We handle permits and guides, ensuring a seamless experience. Dive into Corbett's wilderness and witness its majestic wildlife. Secure your spot today!
A Peek into Corbett National park
We spend all our lives yearning for a visit to paradise but very few are able to find out that it is right here on Earth. No, we are not misguiding you. Paradise does exist on Earth. All you have to do is to change your perspective of looking at forests. With tall trees rubbing elbows against each other, sprawling grasslands, gushing streams, an array of plants and majestic inhabitants, forests do look like a paradise that is waiting to be explored by people who can appreciate this creation of Mother Nature.
A slice of this paradise is Corbett National Park that enjoys its distinct reputation of being the first national park in the entire Asia. And the credit of its establishment goes to Jim Corbett, a hunter and tracker-turned-conservationist, who was the colonel in the British Indian Army. As a token of gratitude and to acknowledge his contribution in the establishment of the park, the name of the park was changed from Hailey National Park to Jim Corbett National Park in 1957.
Today, it is a famous tourist place in Uttarakhand that draws wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers from different corners of India. Reports suggest that more than 70,000 tourists from India and abroad come to marvel at its magnificence every season. The reason behind this huge influx of tourists is the presence of around 488 species of plants and a number of wildlife species. But the major attraction for tourists has always been the Royal Bengal Tiger. Be it youngsters, adults or kids, the tiger is what tourists from all walks of life like to sight.
One of the most favored wildlife destinations, Corbett is also home to more than 586 species of resident and migratory birds. This fact makes it the most ideal place for bird watching holidays in India. The best way to get acquainted with the wildlife and natural wonders in the region is opting for a wildlife safari. The safaris are categorized into two types, namely Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari.
There are many other national parks in India, but Corbett National Park has stolen a march over them by presenting vistas that are alien to other parts of India. It is not that the park gained popularity in recent times; its popularity has been growing manifolds since it was announced the national park way back in 1936.
Though Corbett is a significant contributor to wildlife tourism in India, the national park also attracts adventure fanatics by putting forth opportunities to indulge in bridge slithering, river crossing, fishing and angling.