Complete Travel Guide to Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park is strategically located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, making it easily accessible from major cities across North India. The park is well-connected by road, rail, and air, offering multiple convenient travel options for visitors from different parts of the country.

By Road - Most Convenient Option

Traveling by road is the most popular and convenient way to reach Jim Corbett National Park. The park is well-connected through a network of national highways and state roads, making it easily accessible from major cities.

From Delhi (245 km - 5-6 hours):

Route 1: Delhi → Ghaziabad → Hapur → Moradabad → Kashipur → Ramnagar

Route 2: Delhi → Ghaziabad → Meerut → Najibabad → Kashipur → Ramnagar

Best Route: Take NH9 via Ghaziabad-Hapur-Moradabad for smoother traffic conditions. The journey typically takes 5-6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

From Dehradun (150 km - 4-5 hours):

Route: Dehradun → Haridwar → Najibabad → Kashipur → Ramnagar

This scenic route passes through the foothills of the Himalayas and offers beautiful landscapes along the way.

From Lucknow (350 km - 7-8 hours):

Route: Lucknow → Bareilly → Rudrapur → Kashipur → Ramnagar

A longer but well-maintained route connecting the state capital to the national park.

From Nainital (65 km - 2 hours):

Route: Nainital → Haldwani → Kashipur → Ramnagar

The shortest route, perfect for combining hill station and wildlife experiences.

From Haridwar (150 km - 4 hours):

Route: Haridwar → Najibabad → Kashipur → Ramnagar

A popular route for pilgrims combining spiritual and wildlife tourism.

Transportation Options by Road

Private Car/Taxi:

The most comfortable and flexible option. You can hire a private taxi or drive your own vehicle. Parking facilities are available at all park gates.

Bus Services:

Government Buses: Regular bus services operate from Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, and other major cities to Ramnagar.

Private Buses: Luxury and semi-luxury buses are available from Delhi and other cities, offering comfortable overnight journeys.

Shared Taxis:

Shared taxi services are available from major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar. These are economical options for budget travelers.

By Train - Economical and Convenient

The railway network provides good connectivity to Jim Corbett National Park, with Ramnagar being the nearest major railway station.

Ramnagar Railway Station (12 km from park):

Station Code: RMR

Major Trains:

• Ranikhet Express (15013/15014) - Delhi to Kathgodam via Ramnagar

• Uttar Sampark Kranti Express (15009/15010) - Delhi to Kathgodam via Ramnagar

• Corbett Park Link Express (15035/15036) - Delhi to Kathgodam via Ramnagar

From Delhi:

Journey Time: 5-6 hours by express trains

Best Trains: Ranikhet Express (overnight journey) or Uttar Sampark Kranti Express (early morning departure)

From Lucknow:

Journey Time: 8-9 hours

Route: Connect via Bareilly Junction or take direct trains when available

From Kolkata:

Journey Time: 18-20 hours

Route: Connect via Delhi or take direct trains like Padatik Express to Kathgodam

Alternative Railway Stations:

Kathgodam Railway Station (35 km): Terminus station with better connectivity from major cities. Taxis and buses available to reach the park.

Moradabad Junction (85 km): Major railway junction with excellent connectivity. Good option for travelers from various parts of India.

By Air - Fastest Option

Air travel is the fastest way to reach the region, though it requires additional ground transportation to reach the park.

Pantnagar Airport (50 km - 1.5 hours):

Airport Code: PGH

Airlines: Limited flights operated by Air India and private carriers

Connectivity: Direct flights from Delhi (1 hour flight time)

Ground Transport: Taxis and buses available from the airport to Ramnagar

Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (245 km - 5-6 hours):

Airport Code: DEL

Best Option: Excellent connectivity from all major Indian and international cities

Ground Transport: Taxis, buses, and trains available from Delhi to reach the park

Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (150 km - 4-5 hours):

Airport Code: DED

Airlines: Regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities

Ground Transport: Taxis and buses available via Haridwar-Kashipur route

Local Transportation

Once you reach Ramnagar, several local transportation options are available to reach different park gates and accommodations.

Auto Rickshaws:

Available for short distances within Ramnagar town and to nearby accommodations.

Cycle Rickshaws:

Eco-friendly option for short distances within the town.

Local Taxis:

Available for hire to reach different park gates and resorts in the area.

Hotel Transport:

Most hotels and resorts provide pickup and drop services from Ramnagar railway station.

Distance from Major Park Gates

From Ramnagar Town:

• Dhikala Gate: 18 km

• Bijrani Gate: 1 km

• Jhirna Gate: 16 km

• Durga Devi Gate: 28 km

• Phanto Gate: 25 km

Best Time to Travel

The travel experience can vary significantly based on the season:

Winter (November to February):

Road Conditions: Excellent, with clear skies and good visibility

Travel Tips: Carry warm clothes for early morning and evening travel

Summer (March to June):

Road Conditions: Hot during daytime, but roads are in good condition

Travel Tips: Start early morning to avoid afternoon heat, carry water

Monsoon (July to October):

Road Conditions: Can be challenging due to rainfall and occasional landslides

Travel Tips: Check weather and road conditions before traveling, park remains closed during this period

Travel Tips and Recommendations

Booking and Reservations:

• Book train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season

• Reserve safari permits online before arriving

• Book accommodation in advance, particularly for stays inside the park

Packing Essentials:

• Valid photo identification (mandatory for park entry)

• Comfortable clothing suitable for wildlife safaris

• Binoculars and camera for wildlife viewing

• Basic first aid kit and personal medications

Documentation:

• Carry original ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Driving License, or Passport)

• Safari booking confirmation

• Accommodation booking vouchers

Budget Planning

Transportation Costs (Approximate):

From Delhi:

• By Car: ₹4,000-6,000 (fuel + toll)

• By Train: ₹200-1,500 (depending on class)

• By Bus: ₹300-800 (government/private)

• By Flight to Pantnagar: ₹3,000-8,000

Local Transportation:

• Auto Rickshaw: ₹20-100 per trip

• Local Taxi: ₹500-1,500 per day

• Hotel Pickup: Usually complimentary or ₹200-500

Emergency Contacts

Keep these important contacts handy during your journey:

Corbett Tiger Reserve: +91-5947-251489

Ramnagar Police Station: +91-5947-251223

Tourist Helpline Uttarakhand: 1364

Medical Emergency: 108

Roadside Assistance: 1033

Nearby Landmarks and Stopovers

En Route Attractions:

Haridwar: Holy city on the Ganges, perfect for a spiritual stopover

Moradabad: Known for its brass handicrafts, good for shopping

Kashipur: Gateway to Kumaon region, has several temples and markets

Garjiya Devi Temple: Located near the park, popular pilgrimage site

Fuel Stations and Facilities:

• Regular fuel stations available on all major routes

• Food courts and restaurants at highway stops

• ATMs and medical facilities available in major towns

Conclusion

Reaching Jim Corbett National Park is convenient and straightforward, with multiple transportation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you choose to travel by road, rail, or air, the journey to this magnificent wildlife sanctuary is part of the adventure. Plan your trip in advance, choose the most suitable route based on your location and budget, and prepare for an unforgettable wildlife experience in India's premier national park.