Introduction

Corbett National Park is a breathtaking landscape of Sal forests, grasslands, wet and dry habitats, and home to a diverse wildlife. In 1936 Corbett was given the distinction as the first national park to be established in mainland Asia. A part of the hill state of Uttarakhand, the national park lies in two districts; Nainital and Pauri, and spreads across 1288 sq. kilometers together with the neighboring Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary and Reserve Forest areas. The streams and rivers dissecting its sometimes rugged and sometimes gentle terrain teeming with a fascinating array of flora and fauna bring to life the world in Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. The park is named after the great naturalist-writer Jim Corbett whose writings have inspired generations of wildlife enthusiasts.

This part of the Corbett jungle is accessible from Ramnagar, some 3 kilometers (1.87 miles) away, and opens up an endless vista of grasslands interspersed with thick sal forests, and a silhouette of the distant Kumaon peaks. Entry to this zone is through Amdanda Gate. Birjani is host to a diversity of wildlife such as tiger, wild dogs, jackals, sloth bear, barking deer, Indian python, leopard, king cobra, and elephant including an array of reptiles and rare birds. Jeep safari is the most popular way of exploring this terrain; you can also enjoy elephant rides that take you into the remote reaches of the park. The wild dogs or Dhole (as they are locally called) are unique to Birjani. These pack animals are known to have a very specialized community hunting technique.

Birjani was a preferred hunting ground of the British owing to its topography. As you explore, you will be crossed many a times by rippling streams or brought to a halt by the lantana bushes that spread out broad and thick. But these bushes can be a boon for wildlife enthusiasts, as they often have in their shade a languishing tiger. So look closely while traversing past such shrubs. You are at an advantage when riding an elephant as it gives you a better perspective on the jungle. Take some time to examine the endemic mahua flowers; drawn by whose sweet nectar the sloth bears and regular bears come out of hiding. You could chance upon an inebriated bear by these thickets. Don’t forget to take pictures! The Birjani tourism zone is open from 15th October to 30th June. It is closed in monsoon owing to the poor condition of the forest roads.

Driving after sunset is strictly prohibited inside the park. Taking a nature guide with your vehicle is mandatory. These trained nature guides show you around, help you spot wildlife and make sure you don’t lose your way inside the forest.

Special Attributes

The sloth bears often come out of hiding to drink the sweet nectar of mahua flowers. So, keep an eye out!

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

No such restrictions, you can wear anything you are comfortable in, peferably neutral shades so that you don’t stand out in the lush surroundings and blend harmoniously with it. And don’t forget to put on your trekking shoes.

Connectivity

You can take a car, jeep or gypsy into the park.

Enjoyed by

Nature Lovers, Wildlife Enthusiasts, Families, Kids, Backpackers

Exposure

You will be under the open sky. The sun could be harsh in the noon, so carry along your sunshades, hat, sunscreen lotion, and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

July, August, September

Facilities

Brilliant photo opportunities

Things Not Allowed

Alcohol and non-vegetarian food is strictly prohibited. Do not smoke or light campfires in the forest. While inside the park, put your non-biodegradable litter (tin cans, plastic, glass bottles, metal foils etc.) into the bag provided and dispose it off on your way out.

Tip

Please enter the Park only after taking the necessary permits and follow all the rules. Avail the services of a Nature Guide the Park has trained for your benefit. Drive slowly in the Park and keep to the specified roads and trails. In this way you can see, observe and enjoy the most, without disturbing the wildlife. Don’t forget to refuel your car before entering the park because there is no fuel station beyond Ramnagar.

Type of site

National park