Herd of Elephants in Corbett © Aditya Singh

Corbett Tiger Reserve

Uttarakhand

Driving through the cathedral-like arches of ancient sal trees, the meadows of Dhikala, or watching fish-eating gharial crocodiles hunt mahseer at Champion’s pool, all overlooked by the blue vistas of the Kumaon Hills, Corbett is, not surprisingly, one of the first parks that comes to mind when thinking of Indian wildernesses to visit. 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 and it was here, on April 1, 1973, that Project Tiger was launched. The 1,300 square kilometre park is in the sub-Himalayan belt and the park’s altitude ranges from 400 metres to 1,600 metres. Corbett is often called the ‘land of roar, trumpet and song’, but it is best known for the numerous opportunities to watch large families of elephants. With a bird count of an astounding 550 species, it is an ideal place for avid bird watchers. It holds India’s densest tiger populations, o...ver 200 individuals across its entire range. The park is divided into three distinct geographical areas, with hilly areas of deciduous mixed forests, 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 even in the hot summer months, attracting a host of predators and prey alike. The park is divided into five tourism zones namely Dhikala, Jhirna, Bijrani, Sonanadi and Domunda (Lohachaur).

Morning and afternoon game drives are the most popular activities here. Book early to ensure a seat on a jeep or open truck. It’s also possible to book night stays in one of the old forest rest houses overnight. Since the park attracts many travellers, it might not always be possible to book many safaris during your stay, but thankfully there are plenty of activities you can do around the park.

Although Corbett has a significant tiger population, sightings are less common due to the dense habitat. Keep an eye open for the yellow-throated marten, Himalayan palm civet, the rare ghoral, herds of deer and elephants, leopards, sloth bear and jackals. You can also stop by the Ramganga River and see a number of gharials and muggers basking in the sun. Marvel at the prolific variety of birdlife, a raptor’s haven, with only the once rich vulture colonies having taken a beating over the last few years. Many say it’s a birding destination with tigers - rather than the other way round.

There are excellent birding and wildlife trails in the buffer zone where you can spot plenty of common and some endemic birds especially in the mornings and early evenings, in fact often better wild experiences than in the park, which can get crowded with noisy day trippers. Trek to the Barati Rau waterfalls, an excellent place to spot reptiles and amphibians, orioles, flycatchers and great hornbills. For a touch of history, take a short drive up to Kaladhungi and visit Jim Corbett’s old house, which is now a museum dedicated to his work.

Sadly tourism pressures are intense and continue to build often beyond the area’s carrying capacity thanks to a lack of political will and other development. Illegal poaching, fishing and wood felling continues. TOFTigers funded a Waste Warriors project and a Vulture Restoration project here monitoring nesting sites, raising awareness amongst villagers about the importance of vultures and discouraging use of illegal veterinary drugs. Any incidents of poor practice or rule breaking can be reported to us at admin@toftindia.org for action, ideally with photos. Consider helping with funding or support: - Tiger Conservation Foundation - Corbett Foundation

Destination Information

How To Book

Your lodge or tour operator can book a safari for you, or you can book online.

Park Timings

Winter: Morning: 06:30 am to 11:00 am Evening: 02:30 pm to 05:30 pm Summer: Morning: 05:35 am to 09:45 am Evening: 02:45 pm to 06:45 pm For Canters in Dhikala Zone: (only 2 canters with 16 seats allowed per day) Winter: Morning: 06:30 am to 11:30 am Evening: 11:30 am to 04:30 pm Summer: Morning: 06:00 am to 12:00 pm Evening: 02:00 pm to 06:45 pm The park is closed from July to October due to heavy rains.

Getting Around the Park

You can hire a jeep or go in a larger open bus that seats 16. Each comes with a trained guide and driver. Elephant rides are also an option from Bijrani and Dhikala forest rest houses. These go out morning and evenings for approximately 2 hours.

Entry Fees

R 200 for Indian Nationals R 900 for Foreign Nationals Gypsy: R 250 per Gypsy for Indian Nationals R 500 per Gypsy for Foreign Nationals Elephant Ride: R 300 per person for Indian Nationals R 1,000 per person for Foreign Nationals

By Air: New Delhi (240 km), Dehradun (250 km), Lucknow (247km). Pantnagar airport is just a 2-hour drive from Ramnagar. You can hire cars or drive your own vehicle to the lodge. By Rail / Road: Nainital is 62 km away. Ramnagar Railway station (2 km) has services to and from major cities. Transport can be hired on arrival.

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Corbett Tiger Reserve