Corbett Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand is India’s first national park and the birthplace of Project Tiger. Established as Hailey National Park in 1936 and brought under Project Tiger in 1973, it is among the country’s most celebrated protected areas. The reserve encompasses Himalayan foothills, riverine forests, grasslands, sal forests and the Ramganga River, supporting one of India’s highest densities of Bengal Tigers.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Uttarakhand
Districts	Nainital and Pauri Garhwal
Tiger Reserve Notification	1973 (Project Tiger)
Total Area	1,288.31 sq km
Core Area	821.99 sq km
Buffer Area	466.32 sq km
Landscape	Shivalik and Himalayan Foothills
Forest Types	Sal, Mixed Deciduous, Riverine Forests and Grasslands
Major Rivers	Ramganga, Sonanadi, Palain
Best Time to Visit	November to June

Location

The reserve lies in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand and forms part of the Terai Arc Landscape, providing habitat connectivity with Rajaji Tiger Reserve and forests extending into Nepal.

History

Hailey National Park was established in 1936, later renamed Ramganga National Park and finally Jim Corbett National Park in honour of conservationist Jim Corbett. In 1973 it became the first reserve under Project Tiger, setting the foundation for tiger conservation in India.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Covering 1,288.31 sq km, the reserve includes 821.99 sq km of core area and 466.32 sq km of buffer. Its terrain comprises hills, valleys, riverine belts, marshes, reservoirs and extensive grasslands, creating ideal habitats for large carnivores and herbivores.

Flora

Dominant vegetation includes sal, khair, shisham, haldu, rohini, jamun, bamboo, ficus species and extensive grasslands supporting ungulates.

Fauna

Corbett supports Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Leopard, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gharial, Mugger Crocodile, Otter, Sambar, Chital, Hog Deer, Barking Deer, Gaur and Wild Boar. More than 600 bird species have been recorded, making it one of India’s premier birdwatching destinations.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Ramganga River is the lifeline of the reserve. The Ramganga Reservoir, Sonanadi River and numerous streams sustain wildlife throughout the year.

Other Attractions

Dhikala grasslands, Corbett Museum, Garjiya Temple, birdwatching, elephant safaris (where permitted) and scenic landscapes are major attractions.

Weather & Climate

Summers are warm, monsoon brings heavy rainfall and winters are cool with clear visibility, making the reserve attractive throughout the tourism season.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Pantnagar. Nearest railway station: Ramnagar. Excellent road connectivity from Delhi, Nainital and Dehradun.

Best Time to Visit

Different tourism zones remain open at different times, but November to June is generally the best period for wildlife viewing.

Accommodation

Forest Department forest rest houses and Uttarakhand Tourism accommodation are available in designated tourism zones, subject to advance booking.

Conservation Highlights

Corbett pioneered Project Tiger and remains a globally important centre for tiger research, camera-trap monitoring, anti-poaching operations and habitat management.

Visitor Tips

Book safaris well in advance, carry binoculars, wear neutral-coloured clothing, maintain silence and follow all Forest Department guidelines.

Did You Know?

• Corbett was India’s first National Park.
• It became the first Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in 1973.
• The reserve is among India’s finest destinations for both tiger and bird watching.

Last Updated

July 2026