Corbett National Park
Did you know that Jim Corbett national park was India’s first national park? After being initially named as Hailey National Park after Governor Hailey, it got its final name from Edward James (Jim) Corbett- the legendary hunter turned activist and author, who helped to set up the park. The Park located at the foothills of the Kumaon hills, and part of Nainital district covers an area of 520 sq kms. Its varied terrain comprising hills, marshy depressions, riverine belts, grasslands and a large lake, provides a spectacular, panoramic view of the jungle, reminding one of Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book. It was primarily set up with the purpose of conserving the Bengal Tiger. Here, one can see, observe, and photograph as many as 488 different species of birds, and innumerable species mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, dragonflies, and flora. The Corbett National Park has been the topmost favorite getaway for tourists, wildlife fans, and adventure seekers for many years.
Sitabani
Sitabani is a popular tourist spot in the Corbett. This buffer zone is not the part of Corbett Tiger Reserve. Therefore, no rules and regulations of the reserves are applied here. It is famous for its nature walks and wildlife safaris and often visited when people don’t get the safari permission in the Tiger Reserve. The zone is surrounded by mixed sal forest, which is a habitat for species like tigers, leopards, wild elephants and ungulates like spotted deer, barking deer, sambar, and wild boar. According to recent census data, this place is the house of 35 Bengal tigers. Apart from the picturesque sceneries, bamboo channels, and orchards, the estate boasts of Himalayan mineral water straight from the heart of the mountain. You can a nature walk and visit the ancient Shiva temple in the zone.
Bijrani
With vast grasslands, thick forests, and exciting wildlife, Bijrani is a tourists’ favorite. With Sal forests primarily covering this zone, Bijrani not only gives you a chance to see tigers but also ride elephants. However, one should bear in mind that this region is drier and has more vegetation compared to other zones. This zone cannot be visited without prior permission from the Director of the Corbett Tiger Reserve. We recommend you book your trip in advance and seek permits before visiting the national park. According to some anecdotes from the past, this area was a part of the shooting block and many hunting games were played by groups of hunters.
Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary
A relatively unexplored and undisturbed wildlife sanctuary, Sonandi Wildlife Sanctuary is comfortably perched between Corbett and Rajaji National Park. It was established in 1987 to protect the rich biodiversity of the territory. The forest is a harmonious assemblage of Sal, Khair, Bamboo, Asna and Sheesham trees. If you have a fascination for the mammoth creatures, elephants, you will not be disappointed. Housing the Asiatic Elephant, the region also allows you to see animals like tigers, leopards, bear, cheetal, sambar, ghariyal, snakes like King Cobras and otters. There are specific areas within the sanctuary where significant population of different mammals and reptiles can be found. Not only restricted to animals, Sonandi Wildlife Sanctuary also has an impressive number of avian species- almost 550 when last recorded. These include Fishing Eagle, Kaleej, Hawkeye and Pheasants.
Dhikala
Dhikala is the most popular tourist destination in Corbett. Located on the edge of Patli Dun Valley, the region provides a spectacular panoramic view of the valley with Kanda Ridge in the backdrop. There’s a tourist complex that overlooks Dhikala’s one of the largest remaining grasslands and Phulai chaur. Here you can catch a glimpse of Tigers, wild elephants, chital, hog deer and numerous grassland bird species and raptors. There is also an old rest house in Dkikala that is built over hundred years old by the Britishers.
Garjiya Devi Temple
In the vicinity of the park, right in the middle of the Kosi River lies a rock, which is worshiped by revered tourists throughout the year. This is known as the Garjia temple and is a dedicated to Goddess Garjiya, who is believed to be a very powerful deity. Even if you’re an atheist, make sure you visit this area on the day of Kartik Poornima when the place is lit up with different colored lights. It is a gorgeous site and it’s heartening to see people celebrate and worship a God with such faith and enthusiasm. On the other hand, on a usual day, a few quiet moments at the temple and you’ll realize how serene this place is – almost eerie.
Corbett Falls
As you drive 25 kilometers from Ramnagar, you reach an area with thick foliage and a stream of the waterfall appears out of nowhere. It’s a breathtaking site, almost mystical and this is what makes Corbett Falls a tourists’ favorite when they visit Jim Corbett National Park. It could be a relatively small stream of water compared to the ones you may find in other parts of India, but it’s worth every minute of your time. With a lush green backdrop and the chirping of birds providing the background music, you can easily spend a few hours appreciating nature in its full glory. This is also an ideal place for overnight camps, bird watching, and fishing. Let’s take this moment to appreciate the forest department of the state, which has taken considerable measures to make the visit to this place a delightful experience.
Kosi River
Traversing through the eastern boundary of the Jim Corbett National Park flows the Kosi River. Starting from Mohan, it reaches Ramnagar crossing Dhikuli. This spot is frequented by wild animals, especially during summers because this becomes a primary source of drinking water when the Ramganga River and its tributaries dry out. Not only animals, but the river also attracts many migratory birds. The river is inhabited by Mahseer, a variety of fish specific to this region. Spending a few hours at this spot is going to be a great experience for wildlife enthusiasts and people who enjoy adventure activities like river rafting. Disclaimer: You have to seek prior permission for any adventure activities.
