Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest national park in India known for housing the endangered Bengal tiger. Corbett National Park is part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve which is set amidst the foothills of the Himalayas in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. It houses a variety of flora and fauna including rare ones such as tigers and is a treat for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Famous for its wildlife safaris, Jim Corbett National Park is one of the few tiger reserves in India which allows overnight stays. Home to more than 650 species of rare and migratory birds, it is a haven for bird watchers. The most popular attraction at Corbett National Park is Dhikala, a forest lodge located on the border of Patil Dun Valley, which is known for the stunning location and rich wildlife.
The Jim Corbett National Park was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park and is named after Jim Corbett who is a famous hunter and naturalist. It was the first place where Project Tiger was launched in 1973. The park is spread over an area of more than 500 sq km and is divided into 5 zones: Bijrani, Dhikala, Jhirna, Domunda, and Sonanandi to promote tourism.
Permits are required for a specific zone and the safari is allowed only in that zone. Only 180 vehicles are allowed to enter the national park in a day. Jim Corbett National Park remains closed from July to October during the monsoons. However, Jhirna, Dhela, and Sitabani tourism zones remain open for tourists throughout the year.