Jim Corbett National Park safari
Jim Corbett National Park is India's oldest national park, located near Ramnagar in Nainital district, Uttarakhand. Famous for Bengal tigers, diverse wildlife and riverine forests along the Ramganga, Corbett offers jeep and canter safaris, birdwatching and forest rest-house stays. Ramnagar is the primary gateway town with easy road and rail connections from Delhi and nearby hill stations.
Location
Jim Corbett National Park (multiple zones; main access via Ramnagar), Ramnagar, Nainital district, India (Uttarakhand)
Duration
Typical safari: 3–4 hours per slot (morning or afternoon/evening). Full-day/overnight Dhikala safaris/stays available (10–12+ hours for full-day excursions).
Best Time to Visit
November to June is generally the best window for safaris and wildlife viewing (cooler, dry months). Monsoon months reduce visibility and access; some zones or facilities may be closed—confirm exact closure dates with the forest department.
Pricing
Approximate pricing (subject to change; check Uttarakhand Forest Department/authorized operators for current rates):
- Jeep Safari: INR 3,000–6,000 per jeep per safari (shared jeep for 4–6 passengers) (~USD 35–75).
- Canter Safari (25–30 seats): INR 600–1,200 per seat per safari (~USD 8–15).
- Dhikala (full-day/overnight) permits & accommodation: INR 2,000–8,000+ depending on forest rest house category and season.
- Guide/Forest fee & camera permit: Small additional charges (INR few hundred).
- Booking fees/service charges: Online booking portal fees or operator charges extra.
Note: Prices vary by zone (Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, Dhikala, Durga Devi, Sitabani), season (peak/off-peak), and group size. Always verify on the official Uttarakhand Forest Department website and authorized operator listings before travel.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
High probability of sighting Bengal tiger in good zones (Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhikala, Dhela).
Scenic riverine habitat along the Ramganga — excellent for photography and picnics (designated areas only).
Rich birdlife: kingfishers, eagles, bulbuls, barbets, migratory waterbirds in season.
Dhikala zone: iconic forest rest house, full-day safaris and panoramic views of the grasslands and river.
Multiple safari types: shared/private jeep safaris, canter safaris, guided nature walks and elephant rides (where permitted).
Itinerary
Arrive in Ramnagar and check in to lodging near the park. Complete forest department formalities if pre-booked, or confirm booking at forest gate.
Carry printed permits/ID. Rest early; morning safaris start before sunrise.
Morning jeep safari into assigned zone (e.g., Bijrani/Jhirna). Typical window ~06:00–10:00 (varies by season).
Best time for predator activity and cool light for photography. Keep quiet and follow naturalist instructions.
Optional afternoon safari (approx. 14:30–18:30) or rest at lodge and visit the Ramganga viewpoint.
Afternoon safaris are good for spotting herbivores, evening bird activity; timings vary with season.
Full-day safari in Dhikala with possible overnight stay at Dhikala Forest Rest House (requires advance permit).
Dhikala offers the best open grassland and river views; book months in advance for permits and accommodation.
Safety Requirements
Always follow instructions from the forest guide/guard — they know animal behavior and safe distances.
Do not feed or attempt to touch wildlife; keep noise to a minimum.
Remain inside vehicles during safaris unless expressly allowed in designated areas.
Carry adequate water, medications and a basic first-aid kit; inform staff of medical conditions.
Avoid strong perfumes/aftershaves which can attract or disturb animals; wear muted colors.
Check weather and park warnings; some zones close during heavy rains/monsoon.
Tips
Book in advance: Popular zones and Dhikala permits fill quickly—use the official Uttarakhand Forest Department portal or authorized operators.
Carry binoculars, a telephoto lens (if photographing), sun protection, insect repellent and layered clothing for cold early mornings.
Bring sufficient cash for incidental expenses—many small operators/lodges accept limited digital payments.
Respect park rules: avoid littering, do not smoke inside vehicle or in forest areas, and follow timing strictly.
Best sightings often come from patience and silence—listen to your guide and look for signs (tracks, alarm calls).
If traveling from Delhi: plan 4–6 hours by road to Ramnagar; trains and buses connect as well. Allow buffer time for delays.
