Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Jim Corbett National Park stands as a testament to India’s rich biodiversity and natural splendor. Spread across an expansive area, this park serves as a haven for a diverse range of flora and fauna, drawing nature enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados from across the globe. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of Jim Corbett National Park, exploring its vast expanse, the myriad of wildlife it harbors, transportation options from Delhi, and practical details such as entry tickets.
How Much Area is Jim Corbett National Park ?
Jim Corbett National Park spans across approximately 520 square kilometers in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was later renamed in honor of Jim Corbett, a renowned British hunter, naturalist, and conservationist. The park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including dense forests, grasslands, riverine belts, and marshy depressions, providing a sanctuary for a plethora of wildlife species.
Animals Found in Jim Corbett National Park:
Royal Bengal Tiger: The crown jewel of Corbett, the Royal Bengal Tiger, roams majestically through its dense forests. With an estimated population of over 200 tigers, Corbett is one of the best places in India to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.
Asian Elephant: Gentle giants of the forest, Asian elephants also call Corbett home. These massive mammals can often be spotted near riverbanks or traversing through the dense vegetation.
Leopards: Stealthy and elusive, leopards thrive in the rocky terrain and dense foliage of Corbett. While sightings are rare due to their elusive nature, lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of these spotted predators during their nocturnal excursions.
Deer Species: Corbett is home to several species of deer, including the spotted deer (chital), sambar deer, and barking deer (muntjac). These graceful herbivores can be seen grazing in the open grasslands or seeking refuge in the forested areas.
Birds: With over 600 species of birds, Corbett is a paradise for birdwatchers. From colorful kingfishers to majestic birds of prey like the crested serpent eagle and the changeable hawk-eagle, the park offers ample opportunities for avian enthusiasts to spot a diverse array of feathered inhabitants.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Corbett is also home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, including the mugger crocodile, Indian python, and various species of frogs and toads.
How to Reach Jim Corbett National Park from Delhi:
Jim Corbett National Park, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. While located in Uttarakhand, reaching Corbett from Delhi is relatively convenient, with several transportation options available to travelers.
By Road:
The most common way to reach Jim Corbett National Park from Delhi is by road. The approximate distance between Delhi and Corbett is around 240 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 5-6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
Private Vehicle: Many travelers opt to drive to Corbett in their private vehicles, enjoying the flexibility and freedom to stop en route and explore nearby attractions. The route typically involves taking the NH9 or NH34 from Delhi towards Moradabad, then continuing on NH309A towards Ramnagar, the gateway to Corbett.
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Bus: Several state-run and private buses operate between Delhi and Ramnagar, the nearest town to Jim Corbett National Park. These buses offer an affordable and convenient option for travelers who prefer not to drive. Deluxe and Volvo buses are also available, providing a more comfortable journey.
By Train:
Another popular option is to travel to Corbett by train. The nearest railway station to Jim Corbett National Park is Ramnagar Railway Station, which is well-connected to Delhi and other major cities in India.
Delhi to Ramnagar Trains: Several trains, including the Ranikhet Express and Corbett Link Express, operate between Delhi and Ramnagar on a daily basis. The journey by train takes approximately 6-7 hours, providing travelers with a comfortable and scenic way to reach their destination.
By Air:
While there is no airport in Jim Corbett National Park, travelers can fly to nearby airports and then proceed to Corbett by road or rail.
Nearest Airports: The nearest airports to Jim Corbett National Park are Pantnagar Airport (approximately 85 kilometers away) and Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (approximately 220 kilometers away). From these airports, travelers can hire taxis or take buses to reach Corbett.
Entry Ticket to Jim Corbett National Park:
The entry ticket to Jim Corbett National Park varies depending on several factors, including the category of visitor, nationality, and mode of safari chosen. Here’s a breakdown of the entry ticket prices:
Indian Nationals:
Entry Fee: Indian nationals are required to pay an entry fee to access Jim Corbett National Park. This fee typically ranges from INR 50 to INR 500 per person, depending on the category of visitor (adult, child, senior citizen) and the zone of the park being visited.
Safari Fee: In addition to the entry fee, visitors planning to go on a safari within the park need to pay a safari fee. The safari fee varies based on the type of safari chosen (jeep safari, elephant safari, canter safari) and the zone selected for the safari experience. Prices typically range from INR 1,500 to INR 4,000 per person for Indian nationals.
Foreign Nationals:
Entry Fee: Foreign nationals are required to pay a higher entry fee compared to Indian nationals. Entry fees for foreign nationals range from INR 200 to INR 1,500 per person, depending on the category of visitor and the zone being visited.
Safari Fee: Similar to Indian nationals, foreign visitors also need to pay a safari fee in addition to the entry fee. The safari fee varies based on the type of safari chosen and the zone selected, with prices ranging from INR 2,500 to INR 6,000 per person.
It’s important to note that entry tickets and safari fees are subject to change, and visitors are advised to check the official website of Jim Corbett National Park or contact park authorities for the most up-to-date information regarding ticket prices and regulations.
In conclusion, the entry ticket to Jim Corbett National Park includes both an entry fee and a safari fee, with prices varying based on the visitor’s nationality, age, and chosen mode of safari. Whether exploring the wilderness on a thrilling jeep safari or embarking on an elephant-back adventure, visitors to Corbett are treated to an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s splendor.
