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Corbett Tiger Reserve has captured the imagination of many with its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. The natural uniqueness of the area was recognized long ago as a result of which in 1936 Corbett attained the distinction of becoming the first National Park to be established in mainland Asia. The park was then named as the 'Hailey National Park' and was later renamed as 'Corbett National Park' after James Edward Corbett the noted hunter turned conservationist of the area. The area came under 'Project Tiger' in 1971 when Gov. of India launched this ambitious conservation project. 
The total area of Tiger Reserve extends 1288.31 sq. kms. Geographically it is located between the Shiwalik Himalayas and the terai. The streams, rivers and ridges crisscrossing the terrain, present Corbett with a remarkable variety of landscapes. This vivid mosaic of habitats wet and dry, plain and mountainous, gentle and rugged, forests and grasslands supports numerous plant and animal species, representing Himalayan as well as plains ecosystem. The most famous of Corbett's wild residents are the Royal Bengal Tiger and the Asiatic Elephant. In addition to that with over 550 species of avifauna Corbett is one of the richest bird regions of the Country and has been declared as an 'Important Bird Area' (IBA) by Birdlife International. 

Bijrani safari zone of Corbett national park is one another famous tourist destination of Corbett Park. This zone is located at a few kilometers distance from Ramnagar and is known for having a good number of resorts at Corbett National Park. Bijrani Safari zone shows rich population of tigers and offers a wonderful sighting to its visitors. Amdanda gate is the entrance to this zone and it consists of buffer, tourism and core areas. Safari can be experienced in morning or in the evening, but only out of core areas. On a particular path, limited numbers of vehicles are allowed at a time so that the habitat of wildlife can never get disturbed. If you wish you can enjoy Jeep safari for the full day to catch greater number of wildlife of Corbett Park.

Naturalist's Tip:

  • The forest area of Birjani is purely serene and perfect for the tranquil atmosphere. It is seen that the forest vegetation is mainly Sal along with wide grasslands known as Chaur. The topography at Birjani is a bit drier and has diverse character. Several types of deers and antilopes namely Chital (Axis axis), Hog Deer or Para (Axis pornicus), Sambar (Cervus Unicolor), Kakkar (Muntiacus Muntjak) etc are seen here.

  • A great place to spot tigers and wild elephants, this is also a preferred destination of Birdwatchers. 

  • Reptiles seen in this region are the Indian Python, Cobra, Krait and the fearsome King Cobra and different species of Lizards.

Jhirna safari zone is located on the southern periphery of Corbett Tiger Reserve.  The animal population also comprises sloth bear and wild elephants which provide great sights for the wild life enthusiasts. Jhirna zone is open throughout the year. The Jhirna jeep safari zone is one of the most eye-catching spots inside the Corbett Tiger Reserve. Day visit to Jhirna Zone is through Dhela Gate which is 20 Kms from Ramnagar. Its main topography mainly constitutes deciduous and secondary forest interspersed with plush open grasslands that offer amazingly good visibility of wild animals.

 Naturalist's Tip:

  • Around Jhirna we have a large chaurs (Grass land) known as the Laldhang Chaur. This is the favored area by the wild herbivores like elephants and deers.

  • The terrain consists of large open grasslands, popularly known as Chaur. Its topography is mainly dry deciduous type with secondary forest. There are numerous natural streams inside the area. The stream beds are warm and accessible for exploring. There are cliff edges along with the streams, which can prove to be a good spot for bird watching.

  • One of the best places to spot tigers in their natural habitat, this is a must visit zone for the wildlife enthusiasts. 

Dhela safari zone is the newest and sixth eco-tourism zone that was opened for tourists in December 2014. Dhela Ecotourism zone remains open for tourists throughout the year.  This zone is extremely rich in flora and fauna. The zone spreads over 1,173 hectares, which has mixed forests of Sal, Rohini, Haldu, Bahera, Kusum vegetation, and tigers, leopards, Asiatic elephants, sloth bears and king cobras. The area is particularly rich in bird diveristy.  A vast Laldhang chaur is the main attraction of this zone. The grassland is often seen packed with elephants and deers. Several wild pigs and Neelgai can also be seen here. The area is also a very sought after place for visitors interested in grassland birds. 

Naturalist's Tip:

  • Royal Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Chital, Sambar Deer, Wild Boar, Black Faced Monkey, Rheus Monkey, Wild Pig and Jackal etc.

  • Peacock, Jungle Foul, White Bush Chat, Oriental Pied, Emerald Dove, Red Wattle Lapwing, the Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Rested Kingfisher, Indian Shirks, Indian Alpine Swift, Woodpecker, laughing Thrush, Vulture, Parakeet, kales Pheasant, Oriole, Common Grey Hornbill, Duck, Stork, Cormorant, Parrot, Indian Roller, Teal, Seagull etc.

Durga Devi safari zone is the hill safari zone filled with wildlife beauty and adventure within the Corbett Tiger Reserve. Located at the North-Eastern side of the reserve, this area is cris crossed by Ramganga and Mandal rivers at several places. This zone is particularly famous for sighting wild elephants and Otters at Domunda Bridge. Famous Mahsheer fish can also be seen in the river water of Durga Devi zone. Lush green forest in this range provides ample opportunity for bird watching as well.
Naturalist's Tip:

  • Tourist can stay for night in Lohachaur Forest Rest House of this zone. Visitors can take Jeep safari to enjoy wildlife in the zone. Durga Devi Zone is open for visitors from 15 October to 15 June and remains closed during monsoon season. 

  • Entry gate to Durgadevi zone is at a distance of 30 kms from Ramnagar city. This ecotourism zone is located on a hilly slope and has several rivers and rivulets crossing the area. This zone is famous for Mahasheer fishes and birds watching. 

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