8 Reasons Why Jim Corbett Should Be Your Next Holiday Destination

One look out of your hotel room window and you’ll realise how far you’ve come from the din of the city. Yes, you’re in the right place, surrounded by the pure bliss that is Jim Corbett National Park. Take a deep breath and get set for a thrilling stay, for when it comes to wildlife and greenery there’s no better bet than Corbett. The lush jungle holds several species of birds and some amazing wildlife. If you need any more convincing to make it your next holiday destination, read on...

1. One of the oldest sanctuaries in India

Located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand and established in 1936, Jim Corbett National Park is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in the country. It is named after Edward James Corbett – popularly known as Jim Corbett – who played a major role in setting it up. The main aim of the project was to protect the Bengal tiger, which is native to India.

2. Rich flora and fauna

Sprawling over 496 sq km, this national park offers stunning views of the Himalayas amid thick deciduous forests. Calling it their home are roughly 500 species of plants and as many migratory and resident birds. The resident wildlife consists of the famous Bengal tiger, deer, sloth bear, leopard, langur, etc. A primary focus of the Park is wildlife preservation and ecotourism.

3. A haven for photographers

In such a diverse landscape, there are bound to be many creatures. You can see more than 500 species of birds and 200 species of wildlife; every step you take or every turn you make will reveal some treasure for the shutterbugs. There are plenty of opportunities for clicking photos but the best time to spot wildlife would be during dawn or dusk.

4. The best place for tiger-spotting

Witnessing the magnificent and mighty tiger in its natural habitat is an unsurpassed sight. In India, there are only a handful of places where you can see this majestic creature in all its glory, and Jim Corbett is one of them. Project Tiger, an initiative undertaken by the Government of India to protect this endangered animal, is active in this sanctuary.

5. Wildlife safaris

The Park is divided into six zones – Bijrani, Dhela, Dhikala, Durga Devi, Jhirna, and Sitabani – each unique in its own way. You can opt for either a jeep safari or an elephant safari, or (only in the Dhikala zone) a ‘Canter safari’ in a secure minibus. Bear in mind that tourists are allowed only in certain zones in the Park; others are protected areas meant solely for the species that reside there.

6. Adventure activities

Jim Corbett is a wonderland for adventure lovers. Activities in and around the Park include angling, camping, fishing, hiking, rappelling, river crossing, river rafting, rock climbing, and trekking. You can take a dip in the rivers that flow through the Park, such as Ramganga and Sonanadi.

7. Bird watching

There’s no better place than Corbett to enjoy bird watching. Carry a pair of binoculars and you might spot some beautiful and mesmeric creatures such as the Himalayan bulbul, black-winged stilt, rain quail, night heron, common babbler, etc.

8. Accommodation of your choice

From luxury resorts to budget hotels, you will find many options around the sanctuary. One notable place is Club Mahindra Corbett Resort, which offers multiple activities, great food, superb ambience, a wealth of amenities, and ultimate luxury to all its guests.

It’s time for you and your travel partner(s) to scrap the idea of a clichéd weekend getaway and embark on an exciting, fun-filled, and educational trip to Jim Corbett National Park. It’s an unbeatable combo of a getaway combined with luxury in the lap of nature!