Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand is known for its Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, birdlife and varied landscapes. Sal forests, open grasslands, riverbeds and the Ramganga reservoir make each part of the reserve different. Whether you are planning a short trip from Delhi or a longer wildlife holiday, use this guide to understand how to reach Ramnagar, choose a safari zone and plan your stay.

Jim Corbett National Park: Location and How to Reach

Jim Corbett National Park is in Uttarakhand, across parts of the Nainital, Pauri Garhwal and Almora districts. Ramnagar is the main gateway for most visitors and the nearest railway station for the popular tourism areas. From Delhi, the road journey is roughly 240–270 km, depending on your starting point and route, and usually takes around 5–6 hours in normal traffic. Allow extra time for traffic and your final transfer to the resort or safari gate.

The park was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, India’s first national park. It was later renamed after Jim Corbett, the naturalist, author and conservationist. In 1973, Corbett became one of the first reserves included in Project Tiger.

By road

Driving or hiring a taxi is a practical option from Delhi and nearby cities. The usual route is via Moradabad and Kashipur to Ramnagar. Travel time depends on traffic, road conditions and where you are staying. If you are driving yourself, confirm your resort’s location and the correct safari entry gate before setting out; the gates for different tourism zones are not interchangeable.

Travel tip: Leave enough time to reach your accommodation, check in and prepare for an early-morning safari. Do not assume that a resort near Ramnagar is close to every safari gate.

By train

Ramnagar railway station is the most convenient rail arrival point for many Corbett visitors. Train schedules and direct services can change, so check current dates and seat availability on the official railway booking site before making plans. If a suitable train to Ramnagar is unavailable, compare services to nearby railheads such as Kathgodam or Haldwani and arrange a road transfer for the remaining journey.

By air

Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport commonly listed for the Corbett area, but flight routes and schedules may be limited or change seasonally. Check current flights before choosing this option. From the airport, arrange a taxi to Ramnagar or your accommodation and confirm the transfer time with the driver or property.

Need help planning your transfer?

Eagle Safaris can help arrange transfers from Delhi, Ramnagar railway station or Pantnagar Airport, along with accommodation and a Jim Corbett safari. Confirm the safari zone and entry gate before finalising your transport.

Flora and Fauna of Corbett National Park

Corbett’s mix of forest, grassland and river habitats supports a wide range of plants and wildlife.

Flora: Sal forests are prominent in many areas, while riverbeds support Khair-Sissoo woodland. Open grasslands, locally known as chaurs, provide feeding grounds for herbivores.

Wildlife: The reserve is known for Bengal tigers and leopards, as well as Asian elephants, spotted deer, sambar, hog deer and barking deer. Other mammals include sloth bears, otters, langurs and rhesus macaques. Gharials, mugger crocodiles and several snake species are also found in the wider reserve. Corbett is a rewarding destination for birdwatchers, with resident and migratory species recorded across its different habitats.

Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Keep a respectful distance, follow your guide’s instructions and avoid loud noises during a safari.

Corbett National Park Safari: Types and Zones

A safari is the main reason many visitors come to Corbett. The vehicle, entry gate and permitted activities depend on the zone and the type of visit. Bookings are subject to availability, and a permit for one zone does not allow entry into another.

Jeep safari

Jeep safaris operate in designated tourism zones and are suitable for small groups. They offer a closer view of the forest landscape and are useful for wildlife photography, although sightings depend on luck, season and animal movement. Do not assume that a jeep can enter every zone or that private vehicles are permitted inside the reserve.

Canter safari

Canter safaris use larger vehicles and are available for selected routes. Day visits to Dhikala are conducted by specially operated canter buses; access rules differ from those for other tourism zones. Check the current official booking information before choosing a safari.

Safari zones at a glance

Zone	What visitors may look forward to
Dhikala Zone	Broad grasslands, views around the Ramganga landscape and opportunities to explore a well-known part of the reserve. Overnight accommodation and day-visit rules differ, so check the current requirements.
Bijrani Zone	Forest and grassland scenery and a popular choice for day safaris.
Jhirna Zone	A frequently considered option for visitors planning outside the main winter season; access still depends on current conditions and rules.
Dhela Zone	A mix of forest and open habitat. Check current operating status before travelling.
Garjiya Zone	Forest scenery and a convenient option to compare when planning a trip around Ramnagar.
Durgadevi Ecotourism Zone	Hilly forest landscapes and birdwatching opportunities. Confirm access and safari availability for your dates.

Zone access, opening dates, safari timings and availability can change with weather and forest-department rules. Verify details through the official booking system before paying for a trip.

Things to Do in and Around Corbett

A safari may be the main event, but you can add other stops to your itinerary depending on your interests and where you are staying.

• Birdwatching: Look for birds around forest edges and river habitats, ideally with a local guide.
• Corbett Museum, Kaladhungi: Learn about Jim Corbett’s life and conservation legacy at his former home.
• Garjiya Devi Temple: Visit the temple beside the Kosi River, a well-known stop near the Ramnagar area.
• Corbett Falls: Consider this as a separate outing and check local access conditions before visiting.
• Relax at your resort: Some properties offer nature activities, village visits or evening facilities. Confirm which activities are included in your booking.
• Follow local rules and avoid entering forest areas on foot unless the activity is specifically permitted and guided.

Best Time to Visit Corbett National Park

The best time depends on whether you prefer comfortable weather, birdwatching or a chance to see wildlife near water sources.

• November to February: Cooler weather makes this a comfortable period for safaris and birdwatching.
• March to June: Temperatures rise, and animals may gather near water. It can be hot, so carry water and sun protection.
• Monsoon months: Heavy rain can affect roads, safari access and zone operations. Some areas close seasonally, while the status of others may vary. Check current dates and conditions before booking.

No season guarantees a tiger sighting. Choose a zone based on access, your travel dates and the type of experience you want rather than relying only on claims about sightings.

Plan Your Corbett Trip with Eagle Safaris

Eagle Safaris can help you compare safari options, accommodation and transfers. 

Looking for accommodation? Browse Jim Corbett resorts, including Palms Grove Resort & Spa and Aahana Resort.

Planning to visit another reserve as well? Explore Rajaji National Park in Uttarakhand or Ranthambhore National Park in Rajasthan.

Ready to plan your trip? Enquire with Eagle Safaris or call +91-9711133775.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Jim Corbett National Park located?

Jim Corbett National Park is in Uttarakhand, across parts of the Nainital, Pauri Garhwal and Almora districts. Ramnagar is the main gateway for most visitors.

How do I reach Corbett from Delhi?

You can travel by road via Moradabad and Kashipur, take a train to Ramnagar, or check available flights to Pantnagar followed by a road transfer. Confirm current schedules before travelling.

What wildlife can I see in Corbett?

Corbett is known for Bengal tigers, leopards, Asian elephants, deer, many bird species and reptiles such as gharials and mugger crocodiles. Sightings depend on natural conditions and are never guaranteed.

What types of safari are available in Corbett?

Jeep and canter safaris are available on designated routes. The vehicle and rules depend on the zone; Dhikala day visits use specially operated canter buses. Check current availability before booking.

When is the best time to visit Corbett?

November to February is generally cooler, while March to June is hotter and may offer different wildlife-viewing conditions. Monsoon weather can affect access, so check the current status of your chosen zone.