The only place on earth that is almost guaranteed to see tigers. The first in India to be declared a National Park, this reserve is named after Jim Corbett, the legendary hunter-turned-talker. The park has changed quite a few names, since its creation. Originally named Hailey National Park, it was renamed Ramanganga later. It eventually got its name as Jim Corbett National Park and has been the most famous National Park in the country ever since.
Kumaon as a region was very concerned about man-eating tigers. It was then that a famous hunter came to the rescue and hunted down many of these fearsome creatures. Since then he was highly revered by the villagers. However, Corbett was not only looking to hunt these glorious creatures. He worked hard for its preservation as well. He brought fame to the region for his book, The Man-Eaters of Kumaon. It is said that he photographed wildlife more with his camera than with his gun. It was Corbett who started a campaign to save the tigers that later led to the delimitation of this reserve. This National Park, in turn, inspired other reserves to take up the cause of the tiger.
Jim Corbett National Park is a haven for all those even remotely interested in wildlife and bobcats. With the best population of tigers, the park is the best place to watch the elusive animals. Even if tourists are lucky enough to see tigers, the park has much more to offer. Rich grasslands, a varied bird population and diverse creatures make the park an interesting bioactive hotspot. The park has a picturesque location in the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of the Ramanganga River.
The park has been well equipped to make it visitor friendly. There are machaans scattered throughout the area, allowing tourists to climb on them to gain altitude and get a good view of wildlife. It is always recommended to bring binoculars to get a good look at the bird population here. A good number of places sell such things outside of the park boundaries. The best and safest way to tour the park is to take a guided tour. The guides are experts who know best where you are most likely to see tigers and other wildlife. They also have a better knowledge of the tracks and can prevent you from getting lost in the wild. A part of Jim Corbett National Park can also be explored on foot. However, it is risky and a guide is again recommended. Elephant and jeep safaris are available for tourists who come here. Visitors are again advised to check the availability of safari vehicles beforehand, as the park authorities allow only a set number of vehicles per day to control noise and pollution levels in the park. Elephant safaris are good for getting a close look at wild creatures. Since the vehicles make noise and scare the animals, the elephants are a better option to see them up close.
Tourists to Jim Corbett National Park will not find it difficult to find accommodation here, as there are quite a few good hotels and resorts in the surrounding area. Although there are not many eating establishments inside the park, the hotels and resorts inside offer good options. Check the accessibility of the park before planning a trip here. The park is closed for a few months from June to November.