The first wildlife reserve in India, Jim Corbett National Park, or ‘Corbett Tiger Reserve,’ is situated in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. It covers an area of 1318 sq km, with 500 sq. km designated as the core area and the remaining portion as the buffer zone. The park is referred to as the protected area for the endangered Bengal tiger of India. The complete natural magnificence of the national park sets it apart from wildlife sanctuaries and other reserve forests in India. The park spans a wide-ranging landscape comprising rivers, forests, grasslands, and mountains.
The national park exhibits ecological and geographical features of the sub-Himalayan belt. Heralded as an excellent ecotourism destination, Corbett boasts approximately 488 different species of plants and a vast array of fauna. The rich variety of the park makes it an excellent place for bird enthusiasts, earning the area the reputation of being one of the best birding areas in India. Additionally, natural water holes, dense jungles, the Ramganga River, and an ample prey base make the park a perfect habitat for the tiger. It offers a complete picturesque location at the foothills of the Himalayas on the Ramganga bank of the river.
Jim Corbett National Park is undoubtedly a haven for those interested in wildlife. With a significant population of ‘Royal Bengal Tigers,’ the park is one of the astonishing places to spot wildlife.
The management of Corbett National Park has made it mandatory for all tourists to obtain permission from government officials to visit the park. If you intend to make a day visit, permits can be directly obtained from the respective entry gates.
Visiting the Dhikala zone during the daytime is not permitted, except when tours are conducted in safaris organized by the management of Corbett Tiger Reserve. Furthermore, entry to this restricted zone is allowed only for visitors with prior accommodation reserved in Dhikala.