Jim Corbett National Park
North India Region
Jim Corbett National Park, established in 1936 in Uttarakhand, India, is the country's first national park and a pioneer in wildlife conservation. Named after the famous hunter and naturalist Jim Corbett, the park spans over 520 square kilometers of diverse terrain including hills, riverine belts, marshy depressions, grasslands, and a large lake. The park's elevation ranges from 400 to 1,220 meters and it receives monsoon rainfall from July to September. Dense moist deciduous forests dominate about 73% of the park, with species such as Shorea robusta, peepal, rohini, and mango trees, supporting a rich flora of over 600 plant species. It shelters 50 mammal species, including the Bengal tiger, and is home to 580 bird species and 25 reptile species, making it a biodiversity hotspot. The park has played a critical role in Project Tiger, India's flagship tiger conservation program, and hosts the world's highest density of tigers. The park is part of the Terai Arc Landscape Program, which aims to maintain wildlife corridors across India and Nepal for species like tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses. Visitors can explore several zones with different opening periods, including Jhirna and Dhikala. The park also operates a veterinary unit and quick response team dedicated to wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. While tourism has boosted awareness, it also presents challenges to the park's ecological balance, underscoring the importance of sustainable visitation practices.
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Tip: Visit during the cooler months from October to June when most zones are open, and book permits in advance through the official website to ensure a smooth experience. Avoid peak monsoon season (July-September) due to heavy rainfall and limited accessibility. Look out for available concessions for students, senior citizens, and groups. Guided safaris are recommended for safety and better wildlife spotting. Respect park rules to help maintain the ecological balance.
Interesting facts
- •Jim Corbett National Park was Asia's first national park, established in 1936.
- •It hosts the world's highest density of Bengal tigers.
- •The park is part of the Terai Arc Landscape Program linking protected areas across India and Nepal.
- •The park's diverse habitats include moist deciduous forests, grasslands, and riverine belts.
- •It shelters over 50 mammal species and 580 bird species, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
History
Originally part of the princely state of Tehri Garhwal, the area was protected starting in the late 19th century under British forest management to prevent deforestation and poaching.
In 1936, it was officially established as Hailey National Park, Asia's first national park, later renamed Corbett National Park in honor of Jim Corbett in the 1950s.
The park faced challenges during World War II due to increased poaching but has since expanded and become central to India's Project Tiger launched in 1974.
In 1991, the park's area was enlarged with a buffer zone, integrating nearby wildlife sanctuaries to enhance conservation efforts.
Place Guide
Dhikala Zone
The most popular and largest zone of the park, open from mid-November to mid-June, offering the best opportunities for tiger sightings and diverse wildlife including elephants, leopards, and various bird species. Dhikala features grasslands, riverbanks, and forested areas with watchtowers and a rest house.
Jhirna Zone
Open throughout the year, Jhirna zone is known for its dry deciduous forests and is suitable for bird watching and spotting herbivores like chital and sambhar deer. It is more accessible during the summer months when other zones are closed.
Corbett Tiger Reserve Veterinary Unit
A specialized unit providing healthcare, rescue operations, and management of human-wildlife conflicts within the park, ensuring the well-being of both captive and wild animals.
Contact
Phone: 097593 63344
