Corbett National Park

Corbett National Park is a wildlife reserve located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is named after the famous British hunter and conservationist, Jim Corbett, who played a major role in the establishment of the park. The park covers an area of around 520 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

The park is particularly well-known for its population of Bengal tigers, which is one of the main reasons why it was established in 1936. In addition to tigers, the park is also home to other big cats such as leopards and jungle cats, as well as a wide range of other animals including elephants, sloth bears, deer, wild boars, and more.

Apart from the wildlife, Corbett National Park is also famous for its scenic beauty, with dense forests, rolling hills, and winding rivers. The park offers a range of activities for visitors, including wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and trekking.

Overall, Corbett National Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers who want to experience the beauty of India’s natural heritage.

Things to do

There are a variety of things to do in Corbett National Park that are sure to keep visitors engaged and entertained. Here are some of the top activities to consider:

1. Wildlife Safari: One of the main attractions of Corbett National Park is its wildlife, particularly the Bengal tiger. Visitors can go on a wildlife safari to spot these majestic big cats, as well as other animals such as elephants, deer, and more.
2. Birdwatching: Corbett National Park is home to over 600 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can go on guided tours or explore the park on their own to spot some of the many colorful and exotic birds that call the park home.
3. Nature Walks and Trekking: Corbett National Park is known for its beautiful scenery, and there are plenty of opportunities for nature walks and trekking. Visitors can explore the park’s many trails and take in the stunning views of the mountains, rivers, and forests.
4. Wildlife Photography: For those interested in photography, Corbett National Park offers a wealth of opportunities to capture stunning wildlife shots. Whether it’s a majestic tiger or a colorful bird, there’s always something to photograph in the park.
5. River Rafting: The Kosi River runs through Corbett National Park, and visitors can enjoy a thrilling river rafting experience along its rapids. This is a great way to add some adventure to your trip.
6. Camping: Corbett National Park has several campsites that offer a unique and immersive experience. Visitors can spend the night under the stars and wake up to the sounds of the park’s wildlife.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Corbett National Park. No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone in this stunning nature reserve.

Safari Details

Corbett National Park offers a variety of safari options for visitors who want to experience the park’s wildlife. Here are some details about the different types of safaris available:

1. Jeep Safari: Jeep safaris are the most popular way to explore the park. Visitors can choose from a morning or afternoon safari, both of which last around 3-4 hours. Each jeep can accommodate up to 6 passengers, and a trained guide accompanies each vehicle to help spot wildlife and provide information about the park.
2. Canter Safari: Canter safaris are similar to jeep safaris, but they offer a larger vehicle that can accommodate up to 16 passengers. Canter safaris are ideal for larger groups or families who want to experience the park together.
3. Elephant Safari: For a truly unique experience, visitors can go on an elephant safari. These safaris are conducted in the early morning hours, and visitors ride atop the elephant as it makes its way through the park. Elephant safaris are a great way to get up close and personal with the park’s wildlife.
4. Walking Safari: For those who want to experience the park on foot, walking safaris are also available. These safaris are conducted in the morning and last around 3 hours. Visitors are accompanied by a trained guide who provides information about the park’s flora and fauna.

It’s important to note that all safaris in Corbett National Park must be booked in advance, and visitors are required to follow park rules and regulations to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife. It’s also important to respect the park’s natural habitat and refrain from littering or damaging the environment.

Safari Timing

The timings for safaris in Corbett National Park depend on the season and the type of safari you choose. Here are some general timings to keep in mind:

1. Jeep Safari: Jeep safaris are conducted twice a day – once in the morning and once in the afternoon. The morning safari usually starts around 6:00-6:30 AM and ends at 10:00-10:30 AM, while the afternoon safari starts around 2:30-3:00 PM and ends at 6:00-6:30 PM. The exact timings may vary depending on the season and the availability of permits.
2. Canter Safari: Canter safaris also follow the same timings as jeep safaris – morning and afternoon.
3. Elephant Safari: Elephant safaris are usually conducted early in the morning, starting around 6:00-6:30 AM and lasting for about 1-2 hours.
4. Walking Safari: Walking safaris are conducted in the morning and usually start around 6:30-7:00 AM, lasting for around 3 hours.

It’s important to note that the park is closed during the monsoon season (from mid-June to mid-November), and safaris are not conducted during this time. Additionally, visitors are required to follow park rules and regulations and to be punctual for their safari bookings. It’s recommended to check with the park authorities or your tour operator for specific timings and availability of different safaris before planning your trip to Corbett National Park.

What constitutes the flora, fauna

Corbett National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and here are some of the key species found in the park:

Flora:

• Sal forests
• Sheesham forests
• Khair forests
• Ber forests
• Dhak forests
• Bamboo forests
• Grasslands
• Riverine vegetation
• Moist deciduous forests

Fauna:

• Bengal tigers
• Asiatic elephants
• Leopards
• Sloth bears
• Himalayan black bears
• Indian gray mongoose
• Wild boars
• Barking deer
• Sambar deer
• Spotted deer
• Indian pangolin
• Indian porcupine
• Gharial crocodiles
• Mugger crocodiles
• Python snakes
• King cobra snakes
• Indian cobra snakes

In addition to these, Corbett National Park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 600 bird species found within the park’s boundaries. Some of the key bird species found in the park include the crested serpent eagle, Himalayan pied kingfisher, red junglefowl, and the great hornbill.

The park’s diverse ecosystems and habitats provide a unique environment for all these species to thrive. It’s important to note that visitors are required to respect the park’s natural habitat and to refrain from littering or damaging the environment to ensure the continued survival of these precious species.

What is the other attraction?

Apart from the wildlife safaris, Corbett National Park offers several other attractions for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in and around the park:

River Rafting:

The Kosi River that flows through the park offers excellent opportunities for river rafting. Visitors can enjoy an adrenaline-filled adventure as they navigate the rapids and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.

Nature Walks:

Visitors can take a guided nature walk within the park to experience the beauty of its flora and fauna up close. Nature walks are conducted in the morning and allow visitors to explore the park’s ecosystem in a more intimate manner.

Corbett Museum:

The Corbett Museum, located in the town of Kaladhungi, is dedicated to the life and legacy of Jim Corbett, the famous naturalist and conservationist who played a key role in the establishment of the park. The museum houses his personal belongings, photographs, and other artifacts.

Garjia Temple:

The Garjia Temple is a popular pilgrimage site located within the park. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Garjia, and visitors can enjoy a scenic walk along the Kosi River to reach the temple.

Dhikala Zone:

The Dhikala Zone is a popular area within the park known for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife. Visitors can stay at the Dhikala Forest Lodge and enjoy jeep safaris or elephant safaris to explore the zone.

Corbett Waterfall:

The Corbett Waterfall is a popular attraction located about 25 km from the park’s main entrance. Visitors can enjoy a scenic hike to reach the waterfall and spend time enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Jungle Camping:

Visitors can also choose to stay in jungle camps located near the park to experience the natural beauty of the area up close. These camps offer comfortable accommodation in the midst of nature and also organize activities like nature walks and bonfire nights.

Overall, Corbett National Park offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure or a peaceful escape in nature, the park has something for everyone.

How to reach

Corbett National Park is located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, and here are the different ways to reach the park:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Corbett National Park is the Pantnagar Airport, which is about 85 km away. The airport has regular flights from Delhi, and visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Corbett National Park is Ramnagar, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The park is about 13 km from the railway station, and visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.
3. By Road: Corbett National Park is well-connected by road, and visitors can reach the park by taking a bus or hiring a taxi from nearby cities like Delhi, Nainital, and Dehradun. The park is about 260 km from Delhi, 70 km from Nainital, and 250 km from Dehradun.
4. Self-Drive: Visitors can also choose to drive to Corbett National Park, and the park is well-connected by road. The park is about 260 km from Delhi, and visitors can follow the NH9 highway to reach the park.

It’s important to note that the park is located in a hilly area, and visitors should be prepared for narrow and winding roads. Additionally, visitors should follow all traffic rules and regulations and drive carefully to ensure their safety.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Corbett National Park:

1. What is the best time to visit Corbett National Park?

The best time to visit Corbett National Park is from November to June, as the weather is pleasant and the park is open for visitors. The park remains closed from July to October due to the monsoon season.

2. Are safaris available throughout the year?

No, safaris are not available throughout the year as the park remains closed during the monsoon season from July to October. Safaris are only available from November to June, subject to weather conditions.

3. What is the cost of a safari in Corbett National Park?

The cost of a safari in Corbett National Park varies depending on the type of safari and the zone you choose to visit. The cost can range from INR 4,000 to INR 7,000 per person for a Jeep safari and INR 3,000 to INR 4,000 per person for an elephant safari.

4. Are there any restrictions on the number of visitors allowed in the park?

Yes, the park has a limit on the number of visitors allowed per day. The limit is set by the forest department and is subject to change depending on various factors like weather conditions and the park’s carrying capacity.

5. Can I book a safari in advance?

Yes, visitors can book a safari in advance by visiting the official website of the forest department or by contacting a registered tour operator. It’s recommended to book in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

6. Is accommodation available within the park?

Yes, there are several accommodation options available within the park, including forest lodges and camps. Visitors can book these accommodations through the official website of the forest department or through a registered tour operator.

7. Can I hire a guide for the safari?

Yes, visitors can hire a guide for the safari to enhance their wildlife viewing experience. The guides are knowledgeable and experienced and can provide valuable insights about the park’s flora and fauna.

These are some of the frequently asked questions about Corbett National Park. It’s always recommended to check the official website of the park or consult with a registered tour operator for the most up-to-date information about the park and its operations.