How to Plan a Corbett National Park Tour

Corbett National Park, India’s oldest and most famous national park, is a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers. Located in the state of Uttarakhand, the park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly its population of Bengal tigers. Whether you're visiting for a day trip or planning a longer stay, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you have a memorable and safe experience. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of how to plan a tour to Corbett National Park, covering everything from the best time to visit to the various safari options and accommodations available.

1. Why Visit Corbett National Park?

Rich Biodiversity

Corbett National Park covers an area of 1,283 square kilometers and offers a diverse range of flora and fauna. It's home to over 600 species of birds, 50 species of mammals, 25 species of reptiles, and 33 species of amphibians. The park is most famous for its population of Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris tigris), but you can also spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, gharials, crocodiles, and various species of deer.

Historical Significance

Founded in 1936 as Hailey National Park, Corbett was later renamed after Jim Corbett, a renowned British hunter-turned-conservationist. Jim Corbett played a key role in the establishment of the park and was instrumental in the efforts to conserve the Bengal tiger.

Adventure and Activities

Besides wildlife safaris, Corbett offers other activities such as trekking, river rafting, fishing, and birdwatching. You can also experience the thrill of staying in forest rest houses and jungle camps for an immersive experience.

Accessibility

The park is relatively easy to access from major cities like Delhi, Nainital, and Dehradun, making it a popular choice for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

2. Best Time to Visit Corbett National Park

Choosing the right time to visit Corbett is crucial to make the most of your trip. The park is open year-round, but the ideal time largely depends on the type of experience you're looking for.

Winter (November to February)

This is considered the best time to visit Corbett. The weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C. This is also the peak season for wildlife sightings, as the animals are more active during the cooler months. Early morning and evening safaris are ideal for spotting tigers and other animals.

Summer (March to June)

Summer months can be quite hot, with temperatures rising to 40°C, especially in May and June. However, this is a good time for tiger sightings as animals tend to congregate around water sources. The heat can make the experience less comfortable, but if you're an avid wildlife enthusiast, you might find the trade-off worthwhile.

Monsoon (July to September)

The park remains closed from mid-June to mid-November due to the monsoon season. Heavy rains can cause flooding, making roads difficult to navigate and affecting wildlife sightings. If you're planning a visit, it’s best to avoid the monsoon season unless you're visiting nearby areas.

3. How to Reach Corbett National Park

Corbett National Park is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here are the various options for reaching the park:

By Air

The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (60 km away), which is connected to major cities like Delhi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park. Alternatively, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (approximately 300 km away) is the most well-connected international airport, offering better connectivity. From Delhi, you can hire a cab or take a train to Ramnagar, the nearest railhead to the park.

By Train

The closest railway station is Ramnagar Railway Station (approximately 12 km from the park). Ramnagar is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Bareilly. From the station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach the park.

By Road

Corbett National Park is well-connected by road from cities like Delhi (approximately 300 km), Nainital (65 km), and Dehradun (250 km). You can either drive your own vehicle or hire a cab. National highways like NH 121 and NH 109 lead directly to the park. There are also buses from Delhi and nearby cities to Ramnagar, from where you can take a taxi to the park.

4. Safari Options in Corbett National Park

One of the highlights of visiting Corbett National Park is the opportunity to go on a safari. There are several types of safaris available, and the choice depends on your interests and budget.

Jeep Safari

A jeep safari is the most popular and convenient way to explore the park. It is ideal for smaller groups and provides an intimate experience with nature. Jeeps are allowed to enter designated zones within the park, and a trained naturalist or guide accompanies you to ensure a safe and informative experience. Jeep safaris are available in Morning (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM) and Afternoon (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM) shifts.

Best Zones for Jeep Safari:

• Dhikala Zone: This is the most popular and wildlife-rich zone of the park, known for tiger sightings and diverse flora and fauna.
• Bijrani Zone: Famous for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife sightings, including tigers, elephants, and deer.
• Jhirna Zone: Known for its flat terrain and proximity to the park's riverine areas.
• Durga Devi Zone: Ideal for birdwatching, particularly in the early morning hours.

Canter Safari

For larger groups or those who want to experience the park in a shared vehicle, the canter safari is a great option. A canter is a large vehicle that can accommodate up to 16-20 people. Canter safaris are typically conducted in the Dhikala Zone, and they offer a less personalized experience compared to jeep safaris but still provide an opportunity to explore the park’s wildlife and landscapes.

Elephant Safari

An elephant safari is a unique way to explore the park, especially for close encounters with wildlife. Elephants are used to take visitors through the forest, providing a unique vantage point. The safari typically focuses on birdwatching, as elephants can quietly navigate areas that jeeps cannot access. However, elephant safaris are limited, and it's essential to check availability in advance.

Bird Watching

Corbett is a birdwatcher’s paradise with more than 600 species of birds. Birdwatching tours can be organized either in the early morning or late afternoon. Popular birdwatching sites include the Kalagarh Dam, Sultanpur Lake, and Satyara. You can go on birdwatching tours with a naturalist guide to identify different species and learn about their behavior.

Conclusion

Planning a trip to Corbett National Park offers a wonderful opportunity to witness India’s rich wildlife and natural beauty up close. With its picturesque landscapes, diverse fauna, and numerous activities, Corbett provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. By considering factors such as the best time to visit, safari options, accommodation, and nearby attractions, you can tailor your trip to suit your interests and ensure a memorable visit. Whether you're on a short getaway or a longer stay, Corbett National Park is a destination that will leave you with lasting memories of the wild.