Jim Corbett National Park is India’s oldest national park and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Spread over an area of 520 square kilometers, the park is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand state in northern India. Established in 1936, the park was named after the legendary hunter turned conservationist, Jim Corbett. Here are a few things that you need to know about Jim Corbett National Park:
History and significance of the park
Jim Corbett National Park is known for its rich flora and fauna, and it is home to many endangered species of animals and birds. The park is famous for its tiger population and is one of the few places in India where you can spot tigers in the wild. Apart from tigers, the park is also home to leopards, elephants, Himalayan black bears, sloth bears, sambar deer, chital, and many other species of animals and birds.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park is from November to June. The park remains closed during the monsoon season, from July to October, as heavy rains make it difficult to navigate the park. The winter season, from November to February, is considered the best time to visit the park as the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting tigers are high. The summer season, from March to June, is also a good time to visit the park as the animals come out of their hiding places to drink water from the streams and lakes.
How to reach Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett National Park is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest railway station is Ramnagar, which is 12 kilometers from the park. Many trains connect Ramnagar to major cities like Delhi, Agra, and Lucknow. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, which is 50 kilometers from the park. You can also reach the park by road as it is well-connected to major cities in Uttarakhand and northern India.
Things to do in Jim Corbett National Park
There are many things to do in Jim Corbett National Park, apart from spotting tigers and other animals. You can go for nature walks, bird watching, jeep safaris, elephant safaris, and trekking. You can also visit the Corbett Museum, which is located in Kaladhungi, and learn about the life and achievements of Jim Corbett. The museum displays the hunting equipment, personal items, and photographs of Jim Corbett.
Accommodation options in Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett National Park offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget hotels and guesthouses. The park has many forest lodges and rest houses, which are maintained by the forest department. You can also stay in the many private resorts and hotels that are located outside the park.
Rules and regulations
There are many rules and regulations that you need to follow while visiting Jim Corbett National Park. The park remains closed during the monsoon season, and visitors are not allowed to enter the park during this time. The park is also closed during the night, and visitors are not allowed to stay inside the park after sunset. Smoking and drinking are strictly prohibited inside the park, and visitors are not allowed to carry firearms or any other weapon inside the park.
Safety measures
Jim Corbett National Park is a wildlife reserve, and it is important to take safety measures while visiting the park. Visitors are not allowed to venture into the park without a guide, and it is important to follow the instructions of the guide. It is also important to maintain a safe distance from the animals and not to disturb them in any way.
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