Corbett National Park

Named after the famous hunter, naturalist and author Jim Corbett who played a key role in its establishment, Corbett is the oldest national park in India. Situated in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, the 1300 square km park, is in the sub Himalayan belt at close to 4000ft, and has 488 different species of plants and a diverse variety of fauna.

The park is divided into three distinct geographical areas, with hilly areas of deciduous mixed forests, as well as low lying grassland with ravines and vast dense forests of Sal trees. The magnificent Ramganga River flows through the heart of the park bringing a continuous supply of water.

This varied topography results in an abundance of indigenous fauna and flora. There are 110 tree species, 37 species of grass and bamboo, 50 mammals, 25 reptiles. Due to its location Corbett is the only Indian National Park where the Himalayan black bear, Himalayan palm civet and the Ghoral are found, but they are rarely seen.
There are large herds of deer, 4 species in all, as well as breeding herds of elephants. The former migration routes of the elephants were cut off by a hydro-electric project during the 70's, however a good population remains and these are most likely to be seen in the Dhikala area of the park during the summer months when they come down from the hills. Leopards, lesser cats and civets, sloth bear and a large number of jackals are also present.

Two of the most interesting reptiles are the Gharial (fish eating crocodile) and the mugger crocodile, found on the Ramganga River and reservoir, along with Tawny Fish Owl and Great Thick Knee. Although Corbett has a significant tiger population, sightings are less common due to the dense habitat.

However it is a birders paradise with nearly 600 bird species and a beautiful location

Today the park has been a popular ecotourism destination as the weather in the park is temperate compared to most other protected areas of India, with warm but pleasant temperatures during the winter with some foggy mornings and summer temperatures normally do not rise above 35 degrees centigrade. This altitude and latitude also ensure that night time temperatures remain far more comfortable during the hot months.