Rustic ambience, dense canopy of lush green foliage coupled with the striped cat lurking behind the tall grass with birds chirping amidst the chaos of wilderness Is a wildlife lover dream come true. Be prepared to be mesmerized by the magnanimity of the Shivalik ranges, the rugged landscape, the aura of serenity that reeks in the forest air. Watch the scenery change from hues of emerald to nuances of grey as the blue yonder above radiates golden sunlight to enveloping the forest in a ceiling of twinkling stars, this is sure an experience you can get only at Jim Corbett National park.
Jim Corbett national park is located in Uttarakhand state. It is the oldest national park and it was essentially set up to protect the Bengal tiger which is on the brink of extinction. The park is home to 488 species of flora and a wider variety of fauna. The park is about 520.8km square kilometers. The topography of the par is hills, marshes, dense forest cover and a large lake along with multiple water holes. It is bound by Shivalik ranges on the south, and along a valley between the Lesser Himalayas in the north.
The climate in Jim Corbett is mostly temperate. The temperature varies from 5-degree Celsius to 30 °C during the winter and some mornings are foggy. Summer temperatures normally do not rise above 40 °C (104 °F). Rainfall ranges from light during the dry season to heavy during monsoon soaking the reserve in gentle patterns and petrichor.
The safari is an activity that you cannot afford to miss on your trip to Jim Corbett. The park is divided into five zones owing to the heavy influx of tourists. The zones are Dhikala Zone, Jhuirna zone, Bijrani zone, Durga Devi zone. Dhikhala zone is the largest zone and it can be accessed from Dhangadi Gate. This zone is known for its breathtaking beauty. Visit this zone to catch a glimpse of Bengal Tigers, Deer, Chital, Vultures and cobras. Jhirna zone can be accessed from Jhirna gate. This has always been a favourite with tourists. Visit this zone to spot a wild bear which appears as if out of thin air. Bijrani zone can be accessed from Amanda gate. In addition to tigers, deer, Elephants and cobras, the sky is filled with birds of vivid colours flocking across the cerulean skies making it a treat to watch. Avid birders have to visit Durga Devi zone for this zone is teeming with grey-headed fishing eagles, Black-chinned yuhinas, Maroon orioles among other birds. This is the only zone in Corbett where the endangered Mahsheer fish breed. Satbani zone doesn’t actually come under the forest zone. Tourists flock this place for the various temples and birds this makes a great birding spot. One doesn’t need prior permission to enter the zone on a jeep. The safari timings vary according to the zone. Aside from jeep safaris, the park also offers canter safaris which can accommodate up to twenty people. Jeep safaris are meant for smaller groups up to six people and will be provided to those who choose to stay in the forest zone. Jeeps also cover narrower trails and less traversed paths so that you can watch an animal quietly scamper about with bated breath.
Do not miss visiting Kosi river on your trip to Jim Corbett. It gurgles through the lush green valleys of Ramanagar. The clear water, whispering winds, smooth pebbles make it an amazing picnic spot. Stroll by the banks or soak your feet in the nippy waters. Stop a while to witness the stream babble through jungle cover on both sides. If you are lucky you could spot many a wild animal stopping for a drink. It is also a birders paradise. Also for the adventurous soul, enjoy a rafting session and feel the exhilaration rush through your veins as you row against the silvery waters.
It is located on the banks of Kosi River. According to legend Saint had foresight about a catastrophe striking the town. As a result of the flood, clay continued to collect at one corner. Upon meditation, the flood waters receded and a shrine was built at that site. A narrow flight of steep steps lead to the temple. There is a bridge that leads to the steps. The view from the bridge is simply breathtaking. It is surrounded by lush forests on three sides with the babbling Kosi river gleaming in the warm sunlight like a jewel.
Nestled among the dense forest, this milky white falls is a treat to the eyes. Watch it as it cascades through rocks and its roar echoes through the silence of the forest. Stroll along the forest trail listening to the roar of the waterfall muffling the chirping
The Corbett Museum is located at Kalandhungi. It belonged to Jim Corbett during his times. This house contains all his personal belongings, memoirs, letters, antiques and some unique photographs. Step into the museum to go back in time and walk through the life of a wildlife enthusiast. There are also rustic handicrafts that reflect the rustic culture which is available for purchase. The Corbett museum is open for tourists throughout the year except during Holi.
For those adventure enthusiast travellers, mountain biking is a must try the activity. Pedal through the rutted terrain and feel the mountain air grip you in spellbound captivity. There are quite a few biking tracks around the park but the most opted one is the track from Nainital to Jageshwar. This trail is approximately 335 km long and takes about 8 days of taxing cycling. The lush green forests with tepid sunlight and the glistening dew drops amongst the tall grass with the Himalayan backdrop is surely not to be missed. Sign up for this activity if you have the endurance to weave through the rocky topography.
Tree lovers are in for a treat for this forest is dotted with a whopping 480 species of trees. Sal trees dominate the forest foliage. Apart from this, bamboo forests cover a minor area. Chir pine, Khair and Sissoo trees are also present. To add a hue of colour, there are Indian Coral trees, Cassia fistula which is a treat to watch with its yellow drops of chandelier-like blooms and the flame of the forest with its flame-like petals and crimson hues light up the emerald cover.
There is night stays inside the jungle. Dhikhala forest lodge is one such option with a history running through its walls. Built by the British many years ago, it offers a splendid view of the forest. This is managed by the forest department. Apart from this, there are also plenty of other hotels, suites, cottages and tents spread around the area.
By air
The nearest airport to reach Jim Corbett is Patanagar airport. It is located approximately 50 km from the park. There are plenty of cabs that ply from the airport that help you reach the park.
By rail
The closest railway station is Ramanagar. A direct train connects Delhi and Ramnagar. On reaching the station hail a taxi or a bus to the park.
By Road
The road journey from Delhi to Jim Corbett has its own allure. It takes about 6 hours to reach the park but the meandering rods, the picturesque landscape and the whishing wind make up for the long journey. 
