How To Plan Jim Corbett National Park Tour

How To Plan Corbett Tour

Jim Corbett National Park is located in the beautiful district of Nainital in Uttarakhand. It is the oldest national park of India and is renamed from Hailey National Park after the hunter-turned conservationist, James Edward Corbett. Corbett National Park is primarily celebrated for the population of the Bengal tigers, along with a wide variety of flora and fauna. The breathtaking scenic beauty of the national park is an added charm to this wildlife destination. Spread across a sprawling landscape of dense forests, riverine belts, and grasslands, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness wildlife in their natural habitat.

To ensure a well-organised and enjoyable trip, it is important to plan early. Jim Corbett National Park is an ideal weekend destination from Delhi, as it is only 255 km from the national capital. A road trip to the national park encompasses scenic views of the Himalayan foothills.

The following steps guide travellers through the essential strategies to organise their visit, from choosing the right time to securing permits, accommodations, and safaris.

Step 1: Choose the Suitable Season to Visit

Jim Corbett National Park is open to visitors from mid-November to mid-June, although different areas within the park operate at different times. Some of the buffer zones are accessible even during the monsoon season. The ideal months to visit are from November to February, when the weather is enjoyable, and wildlife sightings are plentiful. For those seeking to see the lush greenery of Corbett with fewer tourists, a brief visit during the monsoon from July to September can also be a great option.

Step 2: Choose the Mode of Transportation

Most travellers choose to reach Jim Corbett National Park by road to enjoy the scenic journey. However, the park is also well connected by rail and air. Ramnagar Railway Station is the closest railhead, situated just a few kilometres from the park. For air travel, Pantnagar Airport is the nearest option, while Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is commonly preferred due to its wider domestic and international connectivity. It is advisable to book travel tickets in advance, regardless of the chosen mode of transport.

Step 3: Decide the Safari Zone

Corbett National Park is organised into multiple safari zones, with Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, and Durga Devi being the most visited. Each zone has its own unique appeal. Dhikala is especially well known for its diverse wildlife, while Jhirna and Dhela remain open to visitors all year round. Jeep safaris operate in all zones, and the Dhikala Zone also offers the option of a canter safari for visitors.

Step 4: Book the Preferred Safari

Safari bookings for Jim Corbett National Park are mainly handled by the Uttarakhand Forest Department, with support from authorised tour operators. To get your preferred safari option and zone, it is advisable to book online in advance. Early booking is especially important during peak travel seasons. Visitors can select between jeep safaris and canter safaris. A valid safari permit is mandatory, and complete details of all participants, along with valid identity proof, must be submitted at the time of booking.

Step 5: Secure Accommodation

Jim Corbett National Park provides a variety of stay options, ranging from forest lodges inside the park to premium resorts located nearby. Accommodation within the park, particularly at Dhikala, offers a closer and more immersive wildlife experience. For travellers who prefer added comfort, several well-equipped hotels and resorts are available near the park’s entry gates. It is advisable to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid availability concerns closer to your travel dates.

Step 6: Obtain Required Permits

Entry into Jim Corbett National Park requires a valid permit, which can be obtained online or from the authorised counters. Visitors must carry valid identification, as it will be checked at the entry gate. It is important to ensure that the details on the permit match the information provided during safari and accommodation bookings.

Step 7: Pack Accordingly

Planning a wildlife trip to places such as Jim Corbett National Park calls for careful preparation. Choose light, breathable clothes for summer visits, and pack warm layers if travelling in winter. Comfortable walking shoes are important for safaris and nature trails. You should also carry essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medicines, a basic first-aid kit, and binoculars to enjoy wildlife sightings. It is advisable to bring reusable water bottles and eco-friendly items to help reduce your impact on the natural environment.

Step 8: An Optional Step for Planning

With a longer holiday itinerary, tourists can extend their journey to Nainital and explore nearby offbeat destinations such as Ramgarh, Pangot, or Mukteshwar. Nainital typically requires 2 days to explore comfortably. If the trip is further extended to include these surrounding destinations, careful planning is essential to make the most of the experience.