Jim Corbett National Park, located in the state of Uttarakhand, India is one of the oldest and most renowned national parks in the country. Established in 1936, it spans over an area of approximately 520 square kilometres and is named after the famous naturalist and conservationist, Jim Corbett. The park is known for its rich biodiversity, picturesque landscapes, and being home to the majestic Bengal tiger. Here's a detailed overview of Jim Corbett National Park:

Flora and Fauna: Jim Corbett National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park encompasses diverse ecosystems, including dense forests, grasslands, riverine belts, and hills. The flora consists of sal forests, mixed forests, grasslands, and various other tree species. The park is famous for its impressive wildlife population, including the Royal Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, leopard, Himalayan black bear, sloth bear, Indian python, crocodile, and several species of deer and monkeys. It's also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 600 species of resident and migratory birds, making it a great destination for birding enthusiasts.

Zones: Jim Corbett National Park is divided into different zones to manage tourism and wildlife conservation effectively. The primary zones for wildlife safari tours are:

Dhikala Zone: This is the largest and most popular zone, known for its abundant wildlife and scenic beauty. It offers jeep safaris and Canter safaris, allowing visitors to explore the core area of the park. Dhikala Canter Safari zone operates from 15 November to 15 June of every year. It is closed during rainy season.

Bijrani Zone: Situated on the outskirts of the park, Bijrani Zone is known for its diverse flora and fauna. Jeep safaris are available to explore this zone, providing opportunities to spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. Aamdanda Gate is the entrance to the Bijrani Zone, a part of the Jim Corbett National Park, located approximately 1 kilometer away from Ramnagar city in India. After entering through Aamdanda Gate, visitors must cross a buffer zone of about 5 kilometers before reaching the core zone of the Bijrani area.

Jhirna Zone: Located in the southern part of the park, Jhirna Zone is open throughout the year and is famous for its sloth bears. It offers jeep safaris for wildlife sightings. Entrance Gate of Jhirna zone is Dhila gate, which is located around 15km from Ramnagar. Jhirna zone offers two shifts in a day with the maximum of 30 Jeeps in a shift.

Durga Devi Zone: This zone is known for its picturesque landscapes, avian diversity, and the possibility of sighting elephants and tigers. Jeep safaris are available in this area. Durga Devi Gate is the entry gate to the Bijrani Zone, which is indeed located at a distance of approximately 28 kilometres from the city of Ramnagar, this makes Durga Devi Gate the farthest entry point from Ramnagar. Durga Devi Zone remains open from 15 October to 15 June and remains closed during Monsoon Season.

Sitabani Buffer Zone: Situated outside the core area, this zone offers jeep safaris and is known for its rich birdlife and ancient temples. Sitabani forest offers more than 600 species of trees, shrubs, bamboos, herbs, orchids and many more medicinal plants etc. A part from herbs and shrubs Sitabani forest is natural habitat for rich variety of fauna such as Sambhars, Deers, Elephants, Porcupines, snakes and Royal Bengal Tigers and also offers varieties of  Birds for Bird Watching. Sitabani Buffer Zone remains open throughout the year.

Safari Experience: Wildlife safaris are the primary attraction in Jim Corbett National Park. Jeep safaris are the most common way to explore the park, allowing visitors to venture deep into the forests and increase their chances of spotting wildlife. Canter safaris, which are open-air buses, are also available in Dhikala Zone. The park is known for its tiger sightings, but other animals and bird species can be observed during the safaris. It's advisable to book safaris in advance and follow the instructions of trained guides and naturalists for a safe and informative experience.

Famous Tourist Attractions near Jim Corbett National Park | Places to explore near Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand, India, is surrounded by several popular tourist attractions. Here are some famous places to visit near Jim Corbett National Park:

Garjia Devi Temple: Situated near the Ramnagar entrance of the national park, Garjia Devi Temple is a renowned temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati. It is located on a huge rock in the midst of the Kosi River and offers scenic views.

Corbett Waterfall: Located about 25 kilometers from Ramnagar, Corbett Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by dense forests. It is an ideal spot for a picnic and enjoying the beauty of nature.

Sitabani Temple: Situated on the outskirts of Jim Corbett National Park, Sitabani Temple holds religious significance as it is believed to be the place where Goddess Sita, from the epic Ramayana, entered the earth. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful atmosphere.

Nainital: Approximately 70 kilometers from Jim Corbett National Park, Nainital is a popular hill station and lake town. It offers attractions like Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Mall Road, and viewpoints that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas.

Ranikhet: Located about 90 kilometers from the national park, Ranikhet is a serene hill station known for its natural beauty and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. The town offers attractions such as Chaubatia Gardens, Jhula Devi Temple, and the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated around 100 kilometers from Jim Corbett National Park, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is another protected area known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. It offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, trekking, and nature walks.