📋 In This Article
Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park (later renamed in honour of the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett), Corbett is India's oldest national park and one of its finest tiger reserves. Spread across 520 sq km of Himalayan foothills, it harbours one of the densest tiger populations on Earth — over 260 Bengal tigers.
The Landscape and Zones
Corbett's landscape encompasses six distinct zones (each requiring separate permits): Dhikala — the largest, most remote, and most rewarding zone with the famous chaur (open grasslands) where tigers hunt; Bijrani — known for leopard sightings and excellent bird diversity; Jhirna — the only year-round open zone, ideal for sloth bear and sambar; Durga Devi — in the northeast, best for river and elephant sightings; Sonanadi — least visited, wild, and excellent for bird richness; Sitabani — outside the core reserve, no permit required, good birding.
- Dhikala — best for tigers, open year-round to lodge guests
- Bijrani — day visitors, leopards and birds
- Jhirna — year-round, sloth bears, good wildlife density
- Durga Devi — elephants, river birds, gharial
Wildlife to Watch For
Bengal tiger — over 260 individuals, best sighted in Dhikala chaur at dawn and dusk. Asian elephant — Corbett has a significant elephant population; herds of 20-30 are common in Dhikala. Leopard — shy but present throughout; Bijrani zone offers best opportunities. Gharial — critically endangered crocodilian; 4-5 individuals in the Ramganga River. Hog deer, chital, sambar, barking deer — abundant throughout. Over 600 species of birds including Great Slaty Woodpecker, Crested Kingfisher, Ibisbill, and Grey-headed Fish Eagle. Indian python in river areas.
Best Time to Visit
November to June is the main season; the park closes July-October for monsoon. Peak wildlife viewing: April-June (summer), when water sources concentrate animals and vegetation is minimal, making spotting easier. Tiger activity is highest in March-June when they seek water and shade. Bird migration peaks November-February. Dhikala zone is accessible only to those staying at Dhikala rest house (night access not available to day visitors). Book jeep safaris through the official Corbett online booking portal.
Getting There and Staying
Nearest city: Ramnagar (12km from Bijrani gate), reached by train from Delhi (5-6 hours by overnight train) or road (270km, 6-7 hours). Nainital airport is the nearest commercial airport (80km). Accommodation ranges from luxury eco-resorts outside the park (Jim's Jungle Retreat, The Riverview Retreat) to the iconic Dhikala Forest Rest House inside the core zone (basic but extraordinary for wildlife immersion). Budget travellers can stay in Ramnagar and book day safari permits.
Conclusion
Jim Corbett National Park represents India's most successful tiger conservation story — from fewer than 160 tigers in 1973 (when Project Tiger began) to over 260 today. A visit to Corbett is both a wildlife experience and a witness to what disciplined conservation can achieve.