A home to wild beings, host of thrilling activities and varieties of plants species, Corbett is one of the well-known wildlife reserves of India. It is perched amid verdant beauty and uneven mountains in the foothills of the Kumaon Himalayas in the charming state of Uttarakhand. The park was set up in the year 1936 and was initially known as Hailey National Park which in 1952 was changed to Ramganga National Park. But the present name was coined in 1957 after Jim Corbett, who was a famous hunter turned environmentalist. It is no doubt the most beautiful park of India. And is certainly a perfect place to plan a weekend family tour to explore nature’s varieties and exquisiteness.
Highlights of Corbett National Park
Flora
There are around 488 sorts of plants species in the park. Being a site for floral attractions, it is blessed with silver oak, khair-sissoo forest, eucalyptus, teaks and sal forests. Very rich in flora, there are more than 50 types of shrubs, more than 110 sorts of trees apart from the emerald beauty seen only in fields.
Fauna
With 25 varieties of birds, 50 sorts of mammal species and 585 species of birds, Corbett is indeed a thriving natural park that anyone would want to pay a visit to explore the wildlife. Some of the other wild creatures you can spot in this park are barking deer, chinkara, Jungle car, hog deer, Himalayan black bears, yellow –throated martens, langur and many more.
Safari
Safaris are the best way to discover the rich flora and fauna of Corbett. From Indian pangolins, leopards, wild cat and Himalayan black bear will be a feast to the eyes. If you are lucky, then you may get an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Royal Bengal Tiger. The different safaris one can relish here are elephant safari, canter safari and Horse Safari. But the most convenient way to explore the inherent wildlife is by jeep safari. The safari zones in Corbett National Park are Jhirna, Bijrani, Dhikala,Sonandi and Durga Devi. Each zone is famed for marvelous wildlife exquisiteness.
Corbett Museum
An important tourist attraction nestled in the charming surroundings of Kalandhungi, Corbett Museum presents some memories associated with Jim Corbett. A visit to the museum is important as one will get to learn the significance of wildlife while wandering the spectacular vicinity of this wildlife reserve. Some of his memorabilia put on display are personal belongings, antiques, manuscripts, rare photographs, hunting weapons and sketches.
Adventure activities
There are oodles of thrilling activities that you can enjoy along with its rich flora and fauna. River Rafting goes through the most splendid terrains that the Himalayas have to tender. From deep gorges, rapids, meetings of rivers and a few of the most popular shrines, it is an exciting activity that shouldn’t be missed on a trip to Corbett. If you are someone who wishes to have a very pleasurable experience of fishing and angling, then come to Kosi River or Ramganga River to have fun of a lifetime. Other activities that will get your adrenalin rushing are rappelling, camping, trekking etc.
Bird watching
A dwelling of more than 580 varieties of resident and migratory birds, Corbett is a delight for the ornithologist and bird lovers. Some of the birds that can be found here are graylag, sandpiper, wagtail, the black-necked stork, bareheaded goose, the spur winged lapwing, gull and many more.
Where to stay in Corbett national park
There is no dearth of accommodation options in Corbett. From luxury, deluxe, homestays to budget hotels, you can choose the one that matches your pocket. Rendering a refreshing experience in calm surroundings coupled with superb experience of Corbett, a stay at one of the most visited hotels will make your stay gratifying and memorable. Corbett leela Vilas, a luxury retreat, lies amid the verdant beauty of the wood; Le Roi Resort, offering a charm of staying in the wilderness of jungle; Corbett County Resort, a budget resort, is a perfect escape from the frenzied noise of city life; Corbett International Spa and Health Resort, a deluxe resort, is enveloped by emerald beauty of the Kosi River. These are some of the best hotels that will help you in choosing the perfect resort for your stay.
Those who love wildlife and want to experience adventure at the same time can plan a trip to Corbett National Park and relax in the charming forest. It is indeed the best family weekend tour option.
