The
Corbett National Park is located in the north Indian state of Uttaranchal.
It lies in the foothills of the Himalayas and is home to a rich variety of
flora and fauna. The varied vegetation of the park makes an ideal habitat
for the tiger and its prey. The Corbett National Park is popular for its
population of tigers, leopards, elephants and large cats. Established in the
year 1936, it is India's first national park and first sanctuary to be
included under the Project Tiger.
Activities Within the Park
» Safaris - Elephant safari and jeep safari are the
chief safaris offered here. From upon an elephant's back, watching the
varied wildlife of the park is an experience in itself. Jeep safari is
another fabulous option for the visitors of the park.
» Bird Watching - The Corbett National Park takes
great pride in its 600 species of birds including the migratory birds as
well. Bird watching in the park is very exciting and knowledgeable in the
park.
» Nature Walk - One can also choose to go for a
nature walk around. The excellent wildlife and the varied forms of
vegetation are worth watching. It's an experience of a lifetime whether you
walk through a nature reserve or through the untouched wild zones.
Flora, Fauna & Avi-fauna
The
exotic flora population of the Corbett National Park is no less popular
among the visitors. There is a lot to see, experience and enjoy. The chief
flora of the region include Sal (Shorea robusta), Sheesham (Dalbergia
sissoo), Kanju (Holoptelea integrifloia), Ber (Zizyphus mauritians), Dhak
(Butea monosperma) and Bael (Aegle marmelos).
Besides being popular for its tigers, the park has animal inmates like
elephants, leopards, deer, wild boars, leopard cats, jungle cats and fishing
cats. Sloth bear can be found in the lower regions of the park, while black
bear is seen in the higher hilly areas. Other animal inmates of the park
include wild dog, jackal, palm civet, Indian gray mongoose, common otter,
hare, porcupine, goat antelopes, Langur and rhesus monkeys.
The Corbett National Park is rich and varied in its avian population too.
The Zoological Suvey of India has recorded over 585 species of native and
migratory birds here.
Other Attractions
» Ramnagar - The town of Ramnagar lies in the midst
of the dense forests in the Terai region. It is known for being a fishing
camp in the Corbett National Park.
» Lohachaur - Lohachaur, 15 km from the river Kosi,
is another attraction for the visitors. Here, sports enthusiasts have a wide
scope of angling and fishing.
Accessibility
The closest airport lies at Phoolbagh, Pantnagar, at a distance of 50 km.
Delhi (300 km) is the nearest International airport. Ramnagar is located on
the broad gauge track. From here, there are bus services available to reach
the park. From Nainital and Ranikhet, there are regular buses available to
reach Ramnagar.
Ideal Time
The best time to pay a visit to the Corbett National Park is between the
months of November and June. The park remains closed from June 16 till
November 14. During this period, the monsoons flood the riverbed, making the
road links inaccessible.
