About Corbett National Park

Park History and Other Information

Jim Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand, is India’s oldest national park, established in 1936 as Hailey National Park and later renamed after the famous conservationist Jim Corbett. Spread over 520 sq km, it was the first to come under Project Tiger in 1973. Known for its scenic landscapes and rich wildlife, Corbett is home to Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, and over 600 bird species, making it one of India’s most popular wildlife destinations.
Elephant in Corbett

History

Below is the historical significance that happened to the Corbett starting from the year 1868

1868

Jim Corbett, the famous hunter and naturalist, was born in Nainital, Uttarakhand.

1879

The forest area was designated as a reserve forest under British rule.

1936

The park was established as Hailey National Park, becoming India’s first national park.

1952

It was renamed Ramganga National Park for a short period.

1957

The park was officially renamed Jim Corbett National Park to honor the conservationist Jim Corbett.

1973

Corbett became the first Tiger Reserve under India’s Project Tiger, a landmark in wildlife conservation.

1991

The park was expanded to include the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary, forming the Corbett Tiger Reserve.

2025

Corbett Tiger Reserve spans 1,318.54 sq km (including a 520 sq km core area) and stands as one of India’s leading tiger habitats and top eco-tourism destinations.

Best Time to Visit

Winter (November to February)

The most popular season to visit Corbett. The weather is cool and perfect for safaris, photography, and birdwatching. Animals are often seen basking in the sun near grasslands and riverbanks.

Summer (March to June)

Though the days are hot, this is the best time for tiger sightings. As water sources shrink, tigers and other wildlife gather near rivers and watering holes, offering thrilling viewing opportunities.

Monsoon (July to September)

Most of the park’s core zones remain closed during the monsoon due to heavy rainfall. However, the buffer zones (like Jhirna and Dhela) stay open, and the forest turns beautifully lush and green during this time.

Best Selling Packages

Corbett Weekend Safari

2 Nights / 3 Days

Corbett Weekend Tour

Corbett Budget Safari

3 Nights / 4 Days

Corbett Budget Tour

Corbett & Ranthambore Safari

FAQs  – Corbett National Park

Where is Corbett National Park located?

Corbett National Park is located in the Nainital and Pauri Garhwal districts of Uttarakhand, India, at the foothills of the Himalayas along the Ramganga River.

Why is Corbett famous?

Corbett is India’s first national park and the first Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger (1973). It is renowned for its tiger population, scenic beauty, and diverse flora and fauna.

When was Corbett declared a national park?

Corbett was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park and renamed Jim Corbett National Park in 1957 to honor the famous conservationist.

What animals can I see in Corbett?

Corbett is home to Royal Bengal Tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, gharial, otters, and over 600 bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife photographers.

When is the park open for visitors?

Corbett is open from mid-October to mid-June. The Jhirna and Dhela zones remain open year-round, even during the monsoon season (July–September).

National Parks Near Corbett

Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

Nanda Devi National Park
Nanda Devi National Park
Dudhwa National Park
Dudhwa National Park