Jim Corbett National Park: A Simple Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors | Exclusive 2026

Jim Corbett National Park: A Simple and Helpful Travel Guide

What is Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park is one of the most famous wildlife parks in India. It is in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand and is known for its rich forest, wide grasslands, and the Ramganga River that flows through it. The park covers more than 1,300 square km, which includes hills, river areas, dense sal forests, and open meadows. It was started in 1936 and is the first national park in India.

The park was created to protect the Bengal tiger. Later, in 1973, it became the first place to start Project Tiger, which helped increase the tiger population across India.

Today, Jim Corbett National Park is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in the country. Thousands of people visit it every year to enjoy safaris, nature views, and peaceful stays near the forest. It is also known for its strong connection with Jim Corbett, a hunter who turned into a wildlife protector and inspired many to conserve nature.

History and Name Changes of Jim Corbett National Park

Before the park became a protected area, the entire region was a hunting ground during the British rule. Many forests were destroyed, and animals were hunted in large numbers. Later, the British declared some parts as reserved forests to control logging and hunting.

In 1936, the area was officially declared a national park named Hailey National Park. After independence, the name was changed to Ramganga National Park in 1954, as the Ramganga River is the lifeline of this forest.

Later, in 1955–56, the name was changed again to Jim Corbett National Park to honor Jim Corbett. His work in wildlife protection and his books about tigers made him a respected figure in conservation.

In recent years, there has been talk about renaming it back to Ramganga National Park, but no decision has been made. As of 2025, the official name remains Jim Corbett National Park.

Geography and Zones of Jim Corbett National Park

The park lies in the foothills of the Himalayas. The northern side touches the lower Himalayan range, while the southern part meets the Shivalik Hills. The Ramganga River flows through the middle and creates beautiful valleys, small streams, and grasslands. The height ranges from around 360 meters to more than 1,000 meters.

To manage tourism better, the park is divided into different safari zones. Each zone has its own gate, landscape, and wildlife experience.

Main Safari Zones in Jim Corbett National Park

Zone	Entry Gate	Distance from Ramnagar	Highlights	Best For
Bijrani	Bijrani Gate	10 km	Dense sal forest, open grasslands	Easy trails, birds
Jhirna	Jhirna Gate	15 km	Open areas, riverbeds	Good tiger sightings
Dhikala	Dhangarhi Gate	19 km	Core zone, views of Ramganga	Canter safari, landscapes
Dhela	Dhela Gate	20 km	Mixed forest, hilly patches	Leopard sightings
Durgadevi	Durgadevi Gate	30 km	Hills, small streams	Birds and scenery
Sitabani	Sitabani Gate	25 km	Buffer zone, temples	Nature and culture

Most tourists stay in Ramnagar town as it is close to all the gates.

Distance to Jim Corbett National Park from Major Cities

City	Distance	Travel Time	Route Highlights
Delhi	260 km	5–6 hours	Moradabad – Kashipur
Nainital	62 km	2 hours	Kaladhungi road
Lucknow	280 km	6 hours	Bareilly – Haldwani
Dehradun	220 km	5 hours	Haridwar – Rishikesh
Pantnagar Airport	75 km	2 hours	Nearest airport
Ramnagar Railway Station	12 km	20 minutes	Connected to Delhi

Flora and Fauna of Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park is home to hundreds of plants, birds, and animals. The mixture of sal forests, grasslands, and river areas makes it one of the richest wildlife habitats in India.

Flora (Plants and Trees)

Most of the forest is covered with sal trees. Other common trees include:

• Peepal
• Rohini
• Jamun
• Mango
• Bamboo

The grasslands are important for animals like deer and elephants, as they depend on tall grass for food and shelter.

Fauna (Animals and Birds)

The park is famous for its rich wildlife. Animals you may see include:

• Bengal tiger
• Asian elephant
• Indian leopard
• Sambar deer
• Chital (spotted deer)
• Hog deer
• Sloth bear

It is also a paradise for bird lovers. More than 500 bird species live here or migrate seasonally. These include:

• Crested serpent eagle
• Paradise flycatcher
• Red junglefowl
• Hornbills

Reptiles like crocodiles, pythons, and gharials are found near the river.

Climate and Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett National Park

The climate is comfortable through most of the year, but summers can get warm.

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Cold mornings, pleasant days. Good time for birdwatching.
• Summer (Mar–Jun): Warm and dry. Best time to spot tigers as animals come near water.
• Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Heavy rain. Most zones remain closed for safety.

The best time for safari is November to June.

Conservation Work in Jim Corbett National Park

Since the start of Project Tiger, the park has played an important role in protecting tigers. Poaching has reduced, forest areas have improved, and many villages were moved out to give more space for wildlife.

The park also works with different wildlife groups to protect elephants, leopards, and river species like gharials. The forest brings huge ecological value to Uttarakhand and India.

Safari Booking Process for Jim Corbett National Park

You need a safari permit to enter any tourism zone. This permit is booked online through the official government website.

How to Book a Safari

1. Go to the official website and select the safari booking option.
2. Choose the date, zone, and vehicle type (jeep or canter).
3. Enter visitor details like name, age, and ID proof.
4. Make the online payment.
5. Download the e-permit.
6. Carry the same ID proof to the entry gate.

All visitors must reach the gate at least 30 minutes early.

Jim Corbett National Park Ticket Prices (2025 – 2026)

Ticket prices change by zone and season. Below are the average rates:

Safari Type	Indian Visitors	Foreigners	Extra Charges
Jeep Safari	₹3,350–₹7,500 per jeep	₹6,700–₹16,000 per jeep	Guide: ₹500–₹750
Canter Safari (Dhikala)	₹2,600 per person	₹5,000 per person	Included
Night Safari (Buffer)	₹1,500–₹2,000	₹3,000	Camera: ₹200

Each jeep can take up to 6 adults and 2 small kids.

Best Resorts Near Jim Corbett National Park

Many resorts are spread around Ramnagar, Dhikuli, and Mohaan. Below are some good options based on comfort, service, and location.

Resort	Location	Price (2025 – 2026)	Highlights
Aahana Resort	Near forest area	₹15,000–₹25,000	Luxury stay, spa, greenery
Lemon Tree Premier	Riverside	₹12,000–₹20,000	Good rooms, pool
The Riverview Retreat	Kosi riverside	₹10,000–₹18,000	Quiet stay, views
Namah Resort	Jungle area	₹14,000–₹22,000	Peaceful, nature-friendly
Sterling Corbett	Hill views	₹8,000–₹15,000	Value for money

Most resorts also help book safaris.

Jim Corbett National Park Map and Layout

The park spreads around Ramnagar town. The Ramganga River flows from east to west. Safari zones are spread on different sides of the forest, with entry gates along the main highway. Dhikala lies deep inside the core area, while other zones surround it.

Photos and What You Will See

Visitors often see:

• Tigers walking in the grass
• Elephants moving in herds
• Birds resting near riverbeds
• Sunrise views over the forest
• Misty mornings near Ramganga

Simple wildlife photos or nature shots make your Jim Corbett blog more informative and search-friendly.

FAQs About Jim Corbett National Park

Is Jim Corbett National Park open all year?

No. Most zones stay open from November to June.

Which zone is best for tiger sightings?

Jhirna, Bijrani, and Dhikala are known for good sightings.

What is the new name of Jim Corbett National Park?

There was discussion about renaming it to Ramganga National Park, but no change has been made yet.

How many days are enough for Jim Corbett?

Two nights and two safaris are enough for a good experience.

Is online safari booking mandatory?

Yes. You must book online before visiting.

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