|
Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the districts of Nanital and Garhwal, spread over an area of more than 520 sq km, Jim Corbett National Park is India's first national park and also one of her finest. The Sanctuary is famous for its richly varied wildlife, individualistic scenic charm and magnificent series of ridges running parallel to the valley and riverine vistas. Set up in 1936, Corbett National Park is widely known for the Bengal Tiger and the Asiatic Elephant. In 1973, the park became one of the Tiger reserves in the country, with the launch of the Project Tiger scheme.
Earlier known as 'Hailey National Park', the Corbett National Park is home to the most precious wildlife in India and diverse species of flora and fauna accommodating around 110 tree species and over 50 mammal species, 580 bird species and 25 reptile species. The insect life in itself is astounding and amazing. The park is also known for leopards, Himalayan black bear, hedgehog, flying fox and Indian pangolin and is a haven for Tigers as well as its prey. Mahseer fishing is also one activity that attracts a number of tourists.
Named after the famous hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett, the sanctuary is in fact a large valley with its varied topography comprising of hilly and riverine areas, temporary marshy depressions, plateaus and ravines. The lower areas are almost completely covered by Sal trees. This makes the park suitable for the species to survive and multiply. Situated on the banks of River Ramganga, in elevation the Corbett National Park ranges between 400 meters at its lowest to 1210 meters at its highest. The highest peak at Kanda offers a view over the whole area and the wild beauty of the river.
The best season to visit Corbett National Park is from November 15 to June 15. Elephant rides and Jeep Safaris are the two common ways to explore this deep forest full of flora and fauna.
|
