If you’re a nature lover or wildlife enthusiast, Jim Corbett National Park deserves a prominent spot on your travel bucket list. Tucked away in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, this iconic park is not only India’s oldest national park but also one of its most vibrant and ecologically diverse.

Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was renamed in 1957 to honor Jim Corbett, a legendary hunter-turned-conservationist. Jim Corbett was instrumental in setting up the park and is remembered for his deep commitment to wildlife preservation, especially the Bengal tiger.

Spread across a vast 520 square kilometers, the park is a sanctuary for a rich variety of wildlife. It’s most famous for its Bengal tigers, but you’ll also find Indian elephants, leopards, sloth bears, several species of deer, and over 600 bird species. Whether you’re on a safari or quietly birdwatching, the sheer biodiversity here is bound to leave you in awe.

Zones of Adventure

To manage conservation efforts and tourism, the park is divided into nine zones, each with its own character, entry gates, and regulations:

Dhikala Zone / Bijrani Zone / Jhirna Zone / Durgadevi Zone / Sonanadi Zone / Garjiya Zone / Dhela Zone / Phanto Zone / Sitabani Zone

Each zone offers a different glimpse into the park’s ecosystem and increases your chances of unique wildlife sightings.

Tourists can engage in a variety of experiences such as jeep safaris, elephant rides, bird watching, and guided nature walks. The park also supports several eco-tourism and community-based tourism programs aimed at promoting sustainable travel and wildlife conservation.

More than just a tourist attraction, Jim Corbett National Park plays a vital role in preserving endangered species and maintaining ecological balance. It stands as a testament to India’s commitment to wildlife conservation.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a nature lover, Jim Corbett National Park offers an unforgettable and authentic experience in the heart of India’s wilderness. Jim Corbett National Park offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a place where the beauty of the wild meets the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to protecting it.

 

Wildlife Safari in Jim Corbett National Park

If you want an unforgettable wildlife escape, Jim Corbett National Park should be in a must visit list. Nestled in Uttarakhand’s lush wilderness, the park offers thrilling safari experiences that bring you face-to-face with majestic creatures and stunning natural beauty.

Whether you’re chasing a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger or simply soaking in the peaceful forest vibes, Corbett has just the right safari for every kind of traveller. Here’s a quick guide to the safari options you can choose from:

1. Elephant Safari – A Majestic Ride Through the Wild

There’s something truly magical about exploring the jungle from the back of an elephant. It’s slow, serene, and gives you a higher vantage point to spot wildlife. The elephant safari begins at the Durgadevi Gate on the park’s northeastern edge and ends at Halduparao in the northwest.

• Covers: Mostly the Bijrani zone
• Capacity: 4 people per elephant
• Timings: Morning and afternoon (vary by season)

It’s a favourite among families and photography enthusiasts looking for a more traditional and immersive forest experience.

 

• Jeep Safari – Fast, Flexible & Fun

If you’re looking for speed and flexibility, Jeep safari is the way to go. It’s the most popular option among visitors and allows you to cover more ground in less time. With a knowledgeable guide at the wheel, you’ll venture deep into the park’s core zones.

• Zones Covered: Bijrani, Jhirna, Durgadevi, Sonanadi, Garjiya, Dhela, Phanto, and Sitabani
• Capacity: Upto 6 people per Jeep
• Timings: Morning and evening (seasonal variations)

Perfect for birdwatchers, wildlife lovers, or anyone keen on capturing those once-in-a-lifetime jungle moments!

• Canter Safari – Explore the Famous Dhikala Zone

Planning to visit the iconic Dhikala zone? The Canter safari is your only ticket in – if you’re not staying at a forest lodge inside the park. It’s a shared open bus experience that offers a safe yet exciting journey through one of the best tiger-spotting areas in Corbett.

• Departure Times: 6:00 AM & 11:00 AM daily
• Covers: Dhikala zone
• Bonus: Great for large groups or solo travellers looking to join a group

While Dhikala is still considered a top spot for tiger sightings, the chances of spotting big cats are increasing in other zones in recent times!

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, these safari experiences at Jim Corbett National Park promise an up-close encounter with India’s wild heart.

Climate at Jim Corbett & The Best Time to Visit

Planning a trip to Jim Corbett National Park? Knowing the climate and the best time to visit can make all the difference in your wildlife experience. Here’s everything you need to know before packing your bags!

Jim Corbett enjoys a moderate climate year-round, but the weather does shift quite a bit with the seasons:

• Winter (November to February): Temperatures range from 5°C to 30°C. Mornings can be foggy and chilly, especially during safaris—so don’t forget your warm layers!
• Summer (March to June): Expect temperatures soaring up to 40°C. It gets quite hot during the day, but it’s also a great time for spotting animals near water bodies.
• Monsoon (July to September): The park receives heavy rainfall, making the forests lush and green but also leading to road closures in some zones.

Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett

The park is open to visitors from mid-November to mid-June, offering ample opportunity for wildlife safaris and nature walks. Here’s how each zone operates:

• Jhirna & Dhela Zones: Open year-round, even during monsoons. These are great options if you’re visiting during the off-season.
• Bijrani, Durgadevi, Sonanadi, Garjiya, Phanto, and Sitabani : Open from mid-October to mid-June. Popular for day safaris and Bijrani is known for a good chance of wildlife sightings.
• Dhikala Zone: Open from November 15 to mid-June and allows overnight stays inside the park. It’s one of the most sought-after zones for a complete jungle experience.

Note: During the monsoon, roads in the Dhikala and Bijrani zones often get washed out, making them inaccessible. Also, park gates close at sunset, and no vehicles are allowed to enter or exit after dark—except in the Jhirna & Dhela zones.

 

 

A Seasonal Guide

Each season offers a unique experience, from birdwatching in winter to peaceful treks in the monsoon. Here’s a season-by-season breakdown to help you decide the best time for your visit:

1. Winter Season (October to February)

Best for: Birdwatching & Tiger Sightings

Winter transforms Jim Corbett into a haven for bird lovers. From October to February, the park is filled with migratory and native birds—some rare and truly spectacular. It’s the ideal time for birdwatching, with crisp air and serene surroundings.

This season also offers a great chance to spot the Bengal tiger, often seen basking in the winter sun. While night temperatures can dip as low as 5°C, the daytime remains pleasantly warm, perfect for safaris and wildlife spotting. Many animals are seen out in the open, soaking up the sunshine—making winter a top pick for wildlife photography.

• Monsoon Season (July to September)

Best for: Offbeat Travel & Scenic Treks

 

The monsoon season isn’t the most popular time to visit, but it has its charm—especially if you prefer a quieter, more peaceful experience. From July to September, the forest comes alive with lush greenery, dramatic skies, and a calming aura. It’s a great time for nature walks and trekking with fewer crowds.

Interestingly, this is also the mating season for many animals, offering a rare glimpse into their natural behavior. However, visitors should be cautious—heavy rains can lead to landslides and slippery trails, so travel plans may be affected.

That said, the forest looks stunning in monsoon, and for those seeking solitude and raw beauty, it can be incredibly rewarding.

• Summer Season (March to June)

Best for: Wildlife Spotting & River Rafting

The summer months—from March to mid-June—can be quite hot, with temperatures soaring up to 40°C during the day. But this is also considered the best time for wildlife sightings.

As water sources dry up, animals venture out to the rivers and watering holes, making it easier for visitors to spot tigers, elephants, deer, and more. Early morning and late evening safaris are ideal during this season.

For adventure seekers, summer is also a great time for river rafting and other outdoor activities, making it a favourite among thrill-lovers and photographers alike.

How to Reach Jim Corbett National Park

The nearest City to Jim Corbett is Ramnagar, which can be easily accessed through road and rail network from all the major cities of India such as Delhi, Nainital, Moradabad and Bareilly. You can reach the National Park in only half an hour as it is situated at a distance of 15 km from Ramnagar railway station.

Roadways:  Ramnagar connects the major cities of India with its amazing road network. As Jim Corbett National Park is situated at a distance of 260 KMS from the capital of India, Delhi that is why several buses are operated by the state government of Uttarakhand to connect Delhi, Nainital, Haldawani and Moradabad.

Railways:  Ramnagar Railway Station has access to trains from various cities of India like Delhi, Bareilly and Moradabad. There are direct trains from Delhi to Ramnagar which includes Corbett Link Express, Ranikhet Express and Kathgodam Express.

Airports: Nearest Airport to Jim Corbett is Pant Nagar (77 Kms), Dehradun (175 Kms), Bareilly (145 Kms) & New Delhi (233 Kms)

Experience Jim Corbett with Jungle Trail

Jungle Trail, a specialist in wildlife tours and travels, have tie-up with best of the resorts from standard to premium to Luxury. We have the best Guides and Drivers to offer our guests a strategic advantage during the safaris. With our best service we meet your desire for the best experience.

Whether you’re an avid wildlife photographer, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful escape, timing your visit right ensures you get the most out of your trip to this iconic national park.

So, pack your camera, lace up your boots, and get ready to meet the wild side of India—because Corbett isn’t just a destination, it’s a journey into nature’s soul.

Contact us today-  www.jungletrail.in