NK
Nisha Kapoor
Wildlife Photographer & Guide
Jim Corbett National Park — India's oldest tiger reserve, established in 1936 — spans 1,318 sq km of dense sal forest, river beds, and grasslands in Nainital district. Home to over 240 tigers, 600+ bird species, and large elephant herds, Corbett offers one of India's finest wildlife encounters.
Safari Zones
| Zone | Best For | Open | Quota per day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhikala | Tigers, elephants, rich biodiversity | Nov–Jun | 40 jeeps |
| Bijrani | Tigers, leopards; day trips only | Oct–Jun | 40 jeeps |
| Jhirna | Year-round; tigers, sloth bears | Year-round | 40 jeeps |
| Garjiya | Birds, occasional tiger; scenic river | Oct–Jun | 20 jeeps |
| Durga Devi | Rare wildlife; birds; off-beat | Oct–Jun | 20 jeeps |
Pro Tip
Dhikala zone has the highest tiger sighting probability but requires staying inside the park. Book Dhikala Forest Rest House months in advance through the IRCTC Corbett portal.
How to Book
- 1Visit the official Jim Corbett booking portal (uttranchalforest.gov.in) or IRCTC Tourism.
- 2Permits open 90 days in advance for online booking and 30 days for direct walk-in.
- 3Jeep safari fees: ₹4,500–₹6,000 per jeep (including guide and forest entry). Shared jeeps available.
- 4Elephant safari (Jhirna): ₹2,500 per person for a 1-hour ride.
- 5All visitors must be accompanied by a certified naturalist/guide.
Best Time to Visit
- November–February: Cool, dry weather; excellent visibility; birds at their finest.
- March–June: Dry summer; animals congregate near water; best tiger sightings.
- July–October: Park mostly closed due to monsoon (Jhirna stays open year-round).
What You Might See
- Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris): Best near Dhikala grasslands and Ramganga reservoir.
- Asian elephant: Seen in herds in Dhikala and Bijrani zones.
- Leopard: More reclusive; dawn/dusk drives in Bijrani zone.
- Gharial & Mugger crocodile: Common along the Ramganga riverbank.
- Birds: Crested Serpent Eagle, Great Hornbill, Pied Kingfisher, Bar-headed Goose (winter).
Safari Tips
- Book the first jeep slot of the day (6:30am) — animals are most active at dawn.
- Wear neutral, muted colours (khaki, olive, grey). Avoid bright colours and perfume.
- Keep noise to a minimum inside the park — sound carries far in the jungle.
- Stay inside the jeep at all times; do not litter or feed animals.
- Bring a 400mm+ telephoto lens for wildlife photography.
