Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand is India’s oldest and most famous wildlife park. Home to majestic tigers, elephants, deer, and hundreds of bird species, it offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you love adventure, wildlife spotting, or simply relaxing in nature, Corbett has something special for you.
Planning a visit? You’ll probably want to know all the exciting activities available during your trip. Here are the top 10 things to do in Jim Corbett National Park, explained in simple terms with helpful details.
1. Jeep Safari – Best for Tiger Spotting
A jeep safari is the most thrilling way to explore Jim Corbett National Park and spot its incredible wildlife. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this unforgettable experience:
Why Choose a Jeep Safari?
- Open-top gypsies give you 360-degree views of the jungle
- Higher chance of spotting tigers compared to other safari options
- Covers more ground than elephant safaris (up to 30-40 km per safari)
- Experienced guides and drivers know the best animal sighting spots
Best Zones for Jeep Safaris:
Dhikala Zone (Most Popular)
- Largest zone with diverse landscapes
- Highest tiger sighting probability
- Allows full-day safaris with lunch at Dhikala FRH
- Visitors not staying at the Forest Rest Houses (FRH) can only book Canter safaris in the Dhikala zone, not private jeep safaris.
- Mix of grasslands and dense forests
- Great for spotting deer, elephants and sometimes tigers
Jhirna Zone (Open year-round)
- Good for sloth bears and wild boars
- Beautiful valley landscapes
Safari Timings:
- Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM (Best for tiger sightings)
- Evening Safari: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Good for birding and elephants)
What You Might See:
- Royal Bengal Tigers
- Asiatic Elephants
- Spotted Deer (Chital)
- Sambar Deer
- Wild Boars
- Over 600 bird species
- Maybe a leopard if you’re lucky!
Booking Tips:
- Book 45-90 days in advance (permits sell out fast)
- Morning safaris get booked first
2. Elephant Safari – Get Close to Wildlife
An elephant safari offers a completely different perspective of the jungle compared to jeep safaris. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique experience.
Why Choose an Elephant Safari?
Silent Approach: Elephants move quietly through the forest, allowing closer wildlife encounters without disturbing animals
Higher Vantage Point: The elevated view (8-10 feet up) helps spot animals hidden in tall grass
Access Difficult Areas: Elephants can go where jeeps can’t – through dense vegetation and shallow rivers
Authentic Experience: The traditional way of exploring Indian jungles for centuries
Safari Timings:
- Morning: 6:30 AM – 8:30 AM (Best for wildlife activity)
- Late Afternoon: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Good light for photography)
What Makes It Special:
- Tiger Tracking: Elephants can follow fresh pug marks (paw prints) into dense areas
- Bird’s Eye View: Perfect for photography over tall elephant grass
- Close Encounters: Animals don’t perceive elephants as threats
- Mahout Stories: Learn jungle lore from experienced elephant handlers
Things to keep in mind:
- The safari route must be checked in advance as elephants may not enter dense forest areas.
- Limited to 4 people per elephant + mahout (handler)
- Advance booking recommended (especially winter months)
- Children above 5 years permitted
3. Birdwatching – See Colorful Birds
With over 600 recorded species, Corbett is one of India’s richest birding destinations. The park’s diverse habitats – from riverine forests to grasslands – attract both resident and migratory birds, making every season rewarding for bird enthusiasts.
Prime Birding Locations
Sitabani Buffer Zone
Best for: Himalayan species & raptors
Key sightings:
- Great Hornbill (iconic large bird)
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Himalayan Rubythroat (winter migrant)
Special feature: Mixed forests with excellent canopy birds
Kosi River Corridor
Best for: Waterbirds & kingfishers
Key sightings:
- Brown Fish Owl (rare nocturnal species)
- White-tailed Stonechat
- Pallas’s Fish Eagle (endangered species)
Pro tip: Early mornings show birds bathing
Dhikala Grasslands
Best for: Ground birds & birds of prey
Key sightings:
- Blossom-headed Parakeet
- Changeable Hawk-Eagle
- Pied Harrier (winter visitor)
Essential Birding Gear
- Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42 recommended)
- Field guide (Grimmett’s “Birds of India” is ideal)
- Camera with 300mm+ lens for photography
- Notebook for recording sightings
- Bird call app for identification help
Professional Tips
- Timing Matters
- First 3 hours after sunrise are most active
- Late afternoon also productive before sunset
- Silence is Golden
- Birds startle easily – whisper and move slowly
- Wear earth-toned clothing (avoid white/bright colors)
- Learn the Calls
- Many birds are heard before seen
- 70% of woodland species identified by sound
Local Guides Help
- Park guides know exact nesting/feeding spots
- Can arrange special birding-focused jeep routes
- Rare Species to Look For
- Ibissbill (near Ramganga river rocks)
- Wallcreeper (winter visitor to cliffs)
- Great Slaty Woodpecker (world’s largest woodpecker)
- Finn’s Weaver (globally threatened species)
Birding Ethics
- Maintain safe distance from nests
- Never use playback calls excessively
- Avoid flashing lights at nocturnal species
- Stay on designated trails
Best Time of Day:
- 5:30-9:30 AM: Peak activity period
- 4:00-6:00 PM: Second-best viewing window
Whether you’re a casual observer or serious lister, Corbett’s avian diversity will amaze you. Many guests return year after year to spot new species – the park records about 30-40 new bird sightings annually even among experienced birders.
4. Corbett Waterfall – A Peaceful Spot
Located just 25 km from Ramnagar, Corbett Waterfall is one of the most picturesque spots in the Jim Corbett landscape. Here’s everything you need to know:
About the Waterfall
- Height: 20 meters (66 feet)
- Type: Cascade waterfall
- Best Flow: July-December (post-monsoon)
- Accessibility: 1 km easy walk from parking
Why Visit?
- Perfect picnic spot with natural pools
- Great photography location (rainbow sightings common)
- Cool respite from summer heat (5°C cooler than plains)
- Birdwatching hotspot (parakeets, forktails, thrushes)
Best Time to Visit
- 6-9 AM: Misty mornings with soft light, perfect for photography and solitude.
- 4-6 PM: Golden hour glow enhances the cascades, great for scenic shots.
- July-Aug: Monsoon power—raging flows and dramatic sprays.
- Nov-Dec: Crisp weather, clear water, and fewer crowds.
What to Expect
- Natural rock formations perfect for climbing (carefully!)
- Small pools for foot soaking (no swimming allowed)
- Surrounding forests with rich birdlife
- Local snack stalls serving chai and pakoras
Visitor Tips
- Wear sturdy shoes (rocks can be slippery)
- Carry water & snacks (limited facilities).
- No plastic allowed (strict forest rules)
- Avoid weekends if possible (less crowded weekdays)
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
Parking: ₹100 for cars
Guides: Available for ₹200 (not necessary but helpful)
Special Note: The waterfall is part of the Reserve Forest area, not the National Park core zone, so no safari permit is needed. It makes for a perfect half-day excursion when combined with the Garjiya Temple visit (just 40 mins away).
Safety First: While beautiful, the rocks near the falls can be dangerous when wet. Stay within marked areas and supervise children closely. The forest department has installed safety railings at viewpoints.
Pro Tip: Visit en route to your safari zone – it’s the perfect way to begin or end your Corbett adventure!
5. Stay in Dhikala Forest Lodge – Sleep in the Jungle
Perched on the banks of the Ramganga River, Dhikala FRH is where the jungle whispers its secrets. This historic forest lodge Corbett’s only stay inside the core zone offers raw, unfiltered wilderness.
Why It’s Special:
- Front-row seats to nature’s drama: Tigers prowling the riverbanks, elephants bathing at dawn, and the night alive with jungle sounds.
- Dhikala’s iconic watchtower, where Jim Corbett himself once tracked man-eaters.
- Exclusive access to restricted safari routes where tourist jeeps rarely go.
The Experience:
- Rooms: Basic but soulful—wooden beds, mosquito nets, and windows framing wild meadows.
- No frills: Solar lights, shared bathrooms (in older blocks), and meals served at the canteen with fellow adventurers.
- Disconnected: Leave the world behind no WiFi, sparse signals, just the crackle of the forest guard’s radio.
Book Smart:
- Race to reserve 90 days ahead on Corbett’s official site.
- Pack like a pro: Binoculars, headlamp, and patience for nature’s schedule.
Magic Moments:
- Sunset from the chowki, scanning the grasslands for movement.
- Pre-dawn chai as mist rises off the river, the air tense with possibility.
Prices | ₹2,500 – ₹6,000/night (varies by season/room)
6. River Rafting in Kosi River – Fun Adventure
Enjoy a thrilling 1-2 hour rafting ride on Corbett’s Kosi River. Perfect for beginners and families!
What to Expect:
- Gentle to medium rapids (safe but exciting)
- Beautiful views of forests and mountains
- Chance to see birds, elephants near the riverbanks
Best Time:
- July-Sept: Stronger rapids (more adventure)
- Nov-Feb: Calmer water (great for first-timers)
Easy & Safe:
- No experience needed.
- Guides and safety gear provided
- Starts from Ramnagar (easy to reach)
Cost: Around ₹800-1,500 per person
A fun way to cool off and see Corbett’s nature from the water
7. Fishing in Ramganga River – Catch Big Fish
The Ramganga River in Corbett is famous for Mahseer fishing these golden-scaled fish are strong fighters and a thrill to catch!
Why Try It?
- Fun for both beginners & experts
- Peaceful way to enjoy nature
- Chance to see birds & animals by the river
What You Need:
- Fishing permit (₹500-1,000/day)
- Basic gear (rods available for rent)
- Guide (helps find best spots)
Best Time:
- October to June (avoid monsoon)
- Early mornings or late afternoons
Rules:
- Only catch-and-release (save the fish)
- Use artificial bait (no live bait)
Good Spots:
- Near Dhikala & Marchula
- Quiet river bends
A perfect quiet activity between safaris
8. Visit Garjiya Devi Temple – A Sacred Place
Perched dramatically on a large rock mid-river in the Kosi, this ancient temple honors Goddess Garjiya (a form of Parvati). Accessible via a narrow bridge, it offers.
- Spiritual vibes with constant chants & bells
- Stunning views of river & forests
- Festive energy during Kartik Poornima (Nov/Dec)
Quick Facts:
- Location: 14km from Ramnagar
- Best Time: Sunrise/sunset visits
- Note: Remove shoes before crossing bridge
A peaceful stop between safaris
9. Corbett Museum – Learn About Jim Corbett
Housed in Jim Corbett’s former winter home in Kaladhungi, this quaint museum (est. 1967) lets you step into the world of the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist. The colonial-era bungalow, surrounded by mango trees, preserves his personal artifacts with an air of nostalgia.
Inside, glass cases display:
- Original rifles & traps used during man-eater hunts
- Handwritten letters detailing tiger encounters
- Vintage photographs of Corbett with villagers he protected
- First editions of his famous books like Man-Eaters of Kumaon
The peeling paint and creaking wooden floors add to the authenticity. You’ll see his favorite armchair, hunting knives, and even the pith helmet he wore in the jungle. Wall maps show his perilous routes through Kumaon’s forests.
Outside, the garden holds his beloved pet’s grave (a dog named Robin) and a bronze statue of Corbett reading. The quiet atmosphere makes it easy to imagine him writing by lantern light here.
Visitor Tips:
- Combine with Corbett Falls visit (5km away)
- Photography allowed (₹100 fee)
- Guides share thrilling hunt stories
A must-visit to understand Corbett’s legacy beyond tigers.
Timings: 9.00 AM–5 PM | Entry: ₹100
10. Adventure Activities – Zipline, Rappelling
For thrill-seekers visiting Corbett, ziplining and rappelling offer an adrenaline rush amid stunning Himalayan landscapes. These adventure activities let you experience the jungle from exhilarating new perspectives.
Ziplining:
Glide like a bird across steel cables strung between tall trees, reaching speeds of 40-60 kmph! The best courses feature.
- Multi-stage ziplines (up to 500m long)
- Jungle canopy views of the Kosi River valley
- Safety harnesses with trained instructors
Rappelling:
Descend dramatic 50-80 foot cliffs using ropes, learning proper:
- Rope techniques (figure-8 descenders)
- Body positioning for control
- Trust exercises before the drop
Where to Try:
Adventure camps near Ramnagar and Sitabani offer these activities with:
- Certified guides
- Full safety gear (helmets, gloves, harnesses)
- Training sessions
Best For:
- Families with teens
- Corporate groups
- Adventure photographers
Tips:
- Wear snug-fitting clothes & closed-toe shoes
- Book morning slots to avoid afternoon heat
- Combine with river rafting for full adventure day
These activities typically cost ₹800-1500 per person. While not inside the national park, they complement Corbett’s wilderness experience perfectly. The rush of flying over treetops or mastering a vertical cliff face creates unforgettable memories beyond safari jeeps!
Safety Note: Always verify operator credentials before booking.
Important Tips for Visitors
- Book safaris 45-90 days early (especially for Dhikala Zone) and choose morning slots (6 AM) for best wildlife sightings.
- Stay at Dhikala FRH for an authentic jungle experience (book 90+ days in advance).
- Wear earth-toned clothing (greens/browns) and pack binoculars, a zoom camera, and a power bank.
- Carry cash (ATMs are scarce) and basic medicines (first-aid, motion sickness pills).
- Try river rafting (Nov-June) and visit Garjiya Devi Temple at sunset for stunning views.
- Avoid weekends for fewer crowds and respect wildlife (no loud noises or littering).
- Combine activities wisely (rafting + ziplining on one day, safaris + temple on another).
- Be patient – tiger sightings are never guaranteed, but the jungle always has surprises!
Final Thoughts
Jim Corbett National Park is perfect for wildlife lovers, families, and adventure seekers. Whether you want to see a tiger, enjoy a peaceful waterfall, or try rafting, Corbett has it all.
Plan your trip now and enjoy the wild side of India!
