Jim Corbett National Park, located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, is India's oldest national park and one of the most celebrated wildlife reserves in Asia. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was later renamed after the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett. The park is especially known for its population of Bengal tigers and is a major part of the Project Tiger initiative, which was launched in 1973 to protect these majestic animals from extinction.
Sprawled over more than 1,300 square kilometers of diverse terrain—including hills, riverine belts, marshes, grasslands, and large lakes—Jim Corbett is home to a wide array of flora and fauna. Tourists from across the world visit the park for jungle safaris, birdwatching, photography, and the thrill of being amidst nature. If you're planning a trip, securing your entry and safari bookings in advance is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive guide to booking your visit to Jim Corbett National Park.
Overview of Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett National Park is divided into various zones to manage tourism and wildlife protection effectively. Each zone offers a unique experience, and the variety ensures that visitors can explore different landscapes and wildlife habitats.
The main tourism zones are:
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Dhikala Zone – The most popular and richest in wildlife sightings, especially tigers and elephants. Requires a stay in the forest rest house.
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Bijrani Zone – Known for its dense forest, open meadows, and high chances of spotting tigers.
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Jhirna Zone – Open throughout the year, this zone is ideal for birdwatchers and offers a good chance to see sloth bears and leopards.
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Dhela Zone – A relatively new zone with good sightings and less crowd.
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Durga Devi Zone – Best for birding and seeing animals near river beds.
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Sitabani Buffer Zone – Not managed by the forest department but still rich in wildlife and ideal for nature walks.
Best Time to Visit
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November to February: Ideal for spotting tigers and enjoying cool weather.
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March to June: Best for tiger sightings as animals come out to water sources more frequently.
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July to October: Most of the park is closed during this time due to monsoon, except for the Jhirna and Dhela zones.
How to Book a Safari in Jim Corbett National Park
All safari bookings are managed by the forest department of Uttarakhand and can be made online through the official website: https://www.jimcorbettsafaribooking.com
Step-by-Step Booking Process:
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Visit the Official Website
Go tohttps://www.jimcorbettsafaribooking.com, which is the only authorized platform for booking safaris in Corbett.
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Create an Account
Register using your email ID and phone number to access the booking system.
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Choose the Type of Safari
You can choose between different types of safaris such as:
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Day Jeep Safari: Available in all zones.
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Canter Safari: Only in Dhikala zone and allows group entry.
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Night Stay Safari: Includes accommodation in forest rest houses along with safari.
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Select the Zone and Date
Choose your preferred zone and date. Since the Dhikala zone requires a night stay, plan accordingly.
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Enter Visitor Details
Enter names, age, gender, and ID proof numbers for all visitors. For foreigners, passport details are mandatory.
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Make Payment
Pay the required fees online. Once successful, you will receive a confirmation receipt.
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Print or Save Booking Slip
Carry a printed copy or download the slip on your phone. You will also need to carry valid ID proof during your visit.
Safari Timings
Safari timings depend on the season and daylight hours but are generally divided into two slots:
Reporting time is usually 30 minutes before the scheduled start.
Identification and Documentation
Visitors must carry the following documents during entry:
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Printed safari booking receipt
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Original photo ID (Aadhar, Voter ID, Passport, etc.)
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Passport and visa for foreign tourists
All details provided during the booking must match the ID shown at the gate.
Rules and Guidelines
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Only 6 persons per jeep are allowed (excluding guide and driver).
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Do not get down from the vehicle during the safari.
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Maintain silence and do not disturb animals or birds.
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Follow all instructions given by the guide or forest officials.
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Do not carry plastic bags, alcohol, or fire-producing items.
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Avoid bright clothing and use earth-tone colors to blend in with the environment.
Violations of park rules can result in heavy fines or denial of entry.
Camera and Equipment Charges
Photography is allowed, but there are separate charges for professional and high-end camera equipment:
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Indian Tourists: ₹200 to ₹500 per DSLR
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Foreign Tourists: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per DSLR
Video cameras and commercial shoots require special permits and additional charges.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Safari bookings are usually non-refundable as the seats are reserved in advance for limited vehicles. However, partial refunds may be available for night stay bookings or in case of park closure due to natural calamities. Cancellations made less than 15 days before the visit typically do not qualify for any refund.
Tips for Visitors
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Book your safari and accommodation as early as possible—especially during weekends and peak season.
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Choose the Dhikala zone for the best wildlife experience, but remember it requires an overnight stay.
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Wear comfortable clothing in natural colors and carry a hat, sunscreen, and water.
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Hire a good naturalist or guide—they significantly enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
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Respect wildlife and enjoy the serenity of nature without trying to provoke animals for photos.
Contact Information
For inquiries and support:
Jim Corbett National Park offers one of the best wildlife safari experiences in India. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned wildlife photographer, planning ahead and understanding the booking procedures can help ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience in the wild heart of Uttarakhand.