Jim Corbett National Park Sees Record Tourism: Tiger Sightings, Conservation Boost, and Cultural Festivals Draw Visitors

Jim Corbett National Park stands as one of India’s most compelling wilderness destinations—an emblem of conservation, cultural synthesis, and natural beauty. As the country’s oldest national park and a flagship tiger reserve, it draws tourists and wildlife enthusiasts worldwide, offering an experience that blends adventure with education.

Route & How to Reach

By Road: Well-connected by national and state highways, Jim Corbett is accessible from major cities such as Delhi (approx. 270 km), Lucknow, Chandigarh, and Dehradun. The drive from Delhi via Hapur Bypass, Moradabad, and Kashipur to Ramnagar is the most common route.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Ramnagar, just 12 km from the park’s main entrance. Trains from Delhi and other North Indian cities regularly connect to Ramnagar.

By Air: The closest major airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (about 250 km by road). Pantnagar, a smaller domestic airport 65 km away, also serves the region, but flights are less frequent.

Revenue and Tourism Statistics

Jim Corbett National Park is not only a conservation jewel but also a major generator of tourism revenue:

• In 2023-24, the park recorded revenue of ₹23.24 crore (approx. 2.3 million USD), nearly double the previous year, due in part to increased charges and a spike in foreign visitors.
• Over 4 lakh (400,000) tourists visited in 2024-25, including more than 11,000 international travellers, marking a rise in foreign interest.
• Tourism activities, such as safaris, stays, and permits, are the primary sources of income, with peak visitation from October to March.

History of Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, making it the first national park in India. Named initially after Sir Malcolm Hailey, it was later called Ramganga National Park before finally receiving its current name in 1956-57 to honour the legendary conservationist and hunter, Jim Corbett.

Jim Corbett, born in Nainital, was an army officer, tracker, and author, famed for hunting man-eating tigers and leopards but later praised for his pioneering efforts in wildlife conservation. His advocacy led to the formation of India’s earliest wildlife protection movements. The park became the launch site of Project Tiger in 1973, which catalysed nationwide efforts to protect the Bengal tiger and associated habitats.

Today, the park stretches over more than 1300 square kilometres, including critical core areas and buffer zones, and forms part of the Terai Arc Landscape, an ambitious conservation corridor project connecting 13 protected areas across India and Nepal.

Culture and Heritage

The landscape of Corbett is not only home to wildlife; it also nurtures rich hill cultures, predominantly Kumaoni and Garhwali. The local communities around the park maintain unique traditions shaped by challenging mountain living, expressed vividly in folk festivals, religious practices, and various art forms. Notable festivals such as the Nanda Devi and Garjiadevi Fairs punctuate the year, while dance forms like Chholiya Nritya, Jhora, and Chhapeli keep ancient stories alive through music and movement.

Culinary traditions here are rooted in mountain produce, with rice as a staple and numerous distinctive local recipes enjoyed during festivals and gatherings.

Flora and Fauna

Jim Corbett National Park is renowned for its biodiversity:

• Bengal Tigers: The flagship species, central to the park’s global reputation.
• Elephants: Large herds traverse forest corridors, especially in the summer.
• Leopards, Himalayan black bears, jackals, sambar, hog deer, and over 50 other mammal species.
• Avifauna: With nearly 1,000 recorded species of birds, the park is a paradise for bird watchers.
• Reptiles and flora: Including crocodiles, gharials, and an astonishing diversity of trees and plants, contributing to the sub-Himalayan ecosystem’s resilience.

Major Tourist Spots in Jim Corbett National Park

From heritage sites and religious shrines to thrilling safari zones, Jim Corbett offers diverse attractions for every visitor:

Heritage & Culture

Jim Corbett Museum

Dhikala Canter Safari

Jhirna Forest Rest House

DHIKALA ZONE

Additional Highlights:

• Garjia Devi Temple: Situated on a rock in the Kosi River, this is an iconic spiritual site for both locals and tourists.
• Corbett Waterfall: Scenic falls and tranquil picnic spots amidst lush forests.
• Sitabani Forest: For peaceful walks, bird watching, and mythological connections.
• Hanuman Dham Temple: A serene and significant destination for spiritual seekers.

Adventurous visitors may also enjoy river rafting on the Kosi River and guided treks.

Ecosystem and Conservation

Corbett’s management emphasises habitat conservation and community engagement. As a model for India’s protected areas:

• Project Tiger continues to anchor park management, focusing on the habitat needs of tigers, elephants, and other wildlife.
• Buffer zones and eco-development committees support villagers and create sustainable livelihoods through tourism-related opportunities.
• International recognition (WWF’s Terai Arc Landscape) highlights Corbett’s role in global wildlife corridors, facilitating the safe movement of endangered species across India and Nepal.

FAQs About Jim Corbett National Park

Why is Jim Corbett National Park famous?
Jim Corbett is renowned as India’s oldest national park and for being the launch site of Project Tiger, as well as for its rich biodiversity, especially Bengal tigers and elephants.

What is the best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park?
The ideal time is between October and June. The park’s main safari zones are open during this period, with pleasant weather and high chances of wildlife sightings. Monsoon months (July–September) see limited access.

How can I book a safari in Jim Corbett?
Safaris must be booked in advance through the official park website or through government-authorised operators. Zones such as Dhikala and Jhirna require permits and have visitor quotas.

What are the accommodation options inside or near Jim Corbett?
The park offers a range of accommodation from government rest houses within zones like Dhikala, Bijrani, and Jhirna to private eco-resorts and hotels near Ramnagar.

Is Jim Corbett suitable for family trips?
Yes. The park is family-friendly, with amenities, easy walks, picnic areas, educational spots like the Corbett Museum, and safe zones for wildlife viewing.

Is it possible to see a tiger on every visit?
While Corbett has a healthy tiger population, wildlife sightings depend on luck, time of day, and the zone visited. But the park offers rich opportunities to see many animals and birds even if tigers remain elusive.

What Makes Jim Corbett Unique?

• It is the first national park in India and the first Project Tiger launch site.
• Diverse habitats: Rivers, grasslands, hills, and dense forests are part of the sub-Himalayan belt.
• Cultural synthesis: Home to vibrant hill cultures and local traditions interwoven with conservation.
• Ongoing eco-tourism and conservation efforts blend wildlife protection with benefits to local communities.

Planning Your Visit: Tips

• Book accommodations and safaris well in advance, especially for peak seasons (November–April).
• Respect wildlife regulations: No plastics, noise, or feeding animals.
• Choose a zone based on your interests: Dhikala for landscapes, Bijrani for tigers, Jhirna for birds.
• Explore local culture via village walks, fairs, or culinary experiences.
• Check weather conditions and pack accordingly for forest and outdoor activities.

The Enduring Legacy of Jim Corbett

Spanning nearly a century, the story of Jim Corbett National Park reflects the evolution of Indian conservation, from hunting reserves to protected biodiversity havens spotlighted on the global stage. With increasing tourism, robust revenue, and ongoing conservation success, the park remains not just a sanctuary for wildlife but also a living heritage for India and the world.