Corbett National Park

Fact File
» Location from major cities : Delhi (300 kms), Lucknow (145 kms)

» Known for : Tigers, Leopards, Crocodiles

» Climate & the best time to visit : Summers in the area are hot and temperature could rise to a high of 44 degrees. Winters are very cold and the mercury may dip to a low of about 4 degrees during the peak winter months. Rainfall is high and most of it takes place during the June-September monsoon period. The average annual rainfall recorded is 1400mm-2800mm. The park remains open from November 15 to June 15.


The Park
The majestic Corbett National Park is located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the state of Uttaranchal. Covering a total area of 1,200 Sq .Kms, Corbett houses a diverse nature of flora and fauna. There are many firsts attached to Corbett national park. Corbett is India's first national park and also the first wildlife sanctuary to come under Project Tiger. It was established way back in 1936 as Hailey National Park. Once a popular hunting ground of the British, the park was named after Jim Corbett, the legendary hunter turned author and photographer who played a pivotal role in setting up the park and helping in its conservation efforts.

Attractions in the Park
» Flora : The vegetation mainly comprises of evergreen forests. Sal trees growing in the lower reaches constitute the majority of the vegetation. The higher reaches have plants and trees like Chir, Anauri, Bakli and many bamboo species. Lantana is a weed found here which greatly affects the growth of other vegetation and is a major irritant here. The varied topography comprises hilly and riverine areas, temporary marshy depressions, plateaus and ravines.

» Fauna : Corbett national park is considered as a haven for tigers. The tiger conservation efforts launched here have been greatly lauded. Some of the tiger's prey like Deer and Wild Boar are also found in large numbers. Leopards mainly occupy the hilly areas of the park. The nocturnal cats include Leopard Cat, Jungle Cat and Fishing Cat. Sloth Bear is found in the lower regions while Himalayan Black Bear remains confined to the upper reaches. Some other common inhabitants of the park are Himalayan Palm Civet, Indian Gray Mongoose, Common Otter, Blacknaped Hare and Porcupine. Elephants are also among the attractions. Some species that are seen everywhere are Langur and Rhesus Monkeys. Among reptiles, crocodiles are found in abundance.

» Avifauna : It is amazing that over 600 species of birds have been recorded in Corbett so far. The main species are Herons, Darters, Cormorants, Munias, Weaver birds, Fishing eagles, Serpent eagles, Spotted Eagles, Mynas, Jungle Fowl, Vultures, Thrushes, Barbets, Peacocks, Peahens, Kingfishers, Moorhens, Ducks, Geese, Sandpipers, Cuckoos, Woodpeckers, Wagtails, Drongos, Doves, Plovers, Parakeets, Owls, Kalij Pheasants, Grebes, Grey Lags, Snipes, Harriers, Minivets, Hornbills, and Stone Curlews. The list also includes some endangered birds.

Other Places to Visit
» Ramnagar : Situated in the Terai region, the busy market town of Ramnagar is worth visiting. It is also the administrative centre for Corbett National Park. Ramnagar is also a fishing base camp and many angling expeditions are held here.

» Lohachaur : At a short distance of 15-kms from the park along the River Kosi, Lohachaur is also a popular destination for angling. The Mahseer fish is found in the river waters here.


How To Reach
» By Air : Phoolbagh, Pantnagar is the nearest airport at a distance of 50-kms from the park. But it is a small airport with few commercial landings.

» By Rail : The nearest railhead from the park is Ramnagar. For express train services, one will have to change at Moradabad.

» By Road : Dhikala, the main access to the park is 300-kms from Delhi, 145-kms from Lucknow and 51-kms from Ramnagar. Delhi Transport corporation run a semi deluxe service to the place.