Wildlife in Corbett
 The nature of the habitat dictates the quantity, diversity and visibility of wildlife. Corbett is the oldest National Park opened in India and has a high tiger density but sightings aren't easy because of dense undergrowth. The broadleafed forested hills and the riverine habitat offer a rich mix of wildlife. Apart from seeing big runs of Golden Mahseer and the giant catfish Goonch, the river is also frequented by the Common Indian Otter. Pythons have been seen around deep pools with dense vegetation around. Wild elephants, usually loners, occasionally visit this area. Sambhar and barking deer are commonly sighted and as it gets dark their echoing alarm calls indicate the presence of carnivores in the valley. Nature trails along the river reveal pugmarks of leopards, tiger and spoor of the fishing cat. Ghoral, a shy species of goat antelope, is commonly sighted on the massive cliff faces and rocky gorges that edge the Ramganga. Another rare and extremely shy goat antelope, the Serow, has been sighted here and photographed for the first time in November 2004, perhaps the first photo evidence in this region. |
Flora & Fauna in Corbett
 Corbett's floral diversity is mind boggling. In association with bhabar about 110 species of trees, 51 species of shrubs, 27 species of climbers and 33 species of bamboo and grass are found. The dominant species of tree is Sal Shorea robusta which is found over 75 % of the total area. In a few areas pure stands of sal are found. Trees like Haldu Adina cardifolia, pipal Ficus religiosa, Rohini Mallotus philipensis and mango Mangifera indica are also commonly found. Sheesham Dalbergia sissoo is found along the Ramganga river.Main Flora in Corbett: Sal, semal, dhak, kharpat, sissoo, khair, khingan, bakli, bel, ber, bamboo, rohini, pula, khingan and kuthber Main Fauna (Corbett National Park): Mammals: Tiger leopard, elephant, chital, sambar, hog deer, barking deer, wild boar, langur, Wild pig, rhesus monkey, sambar and jackal. Birds: Peacock, Jungle Fowl, partridge, Kaleej Pheasant, crow, vulture, parakeet, Laughing Thrush, oriole, kingfisher, drongo, dove, woodpecker, duck, teal, stork, cormorant and seagull; Reptile: Indian marsh crocodile, gharial, King cobra, common krait, cobra, Russels viper, python and monitor lizard; |
|
Rivers in Corbett
The Kosi still remains the most famous river in Corbett due to its presence in Dhikuli where most of the resorts exist. Kosi does not flow through the park but is still used by animals for drinking water. Kosi is known for its erratic flow and the river is highly unpredictable during the monsoons. The river is home to Mahaseer. Sonanadi is the most important tributary of River Ramganga is responsible for watering the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary and enters Corbett National Park from the North. The simple hindi translation of Sonanadi means "river of gold" and it is believed that at one time grains of gold were extracted from its bed through different treatments. |
How to reach Corbett Pantnagar, which is about 50 kilometres away, is the nearest airport. Ramnagar is the nearest railhead to reach Jim Corbett National Park. The Ranikhet Express plies between Ramnagar and Delhi. The train leaves Delhi at around 10:50 in the night and arrive at Ramnagar around 5 in the morning. Jim Corbett National Park is well connected by road with other parts of the country. |
Seasons: There are three well defined seasons Winter: November to February Summer: March to June Monsoon: July to October However Corbett National Park remains open throughout the year for the visitors from Jhrina zone but the best time to visit Corbett is from 15th November to 15th June because during this period of time all the tourism zones of Corbett are open for visitors and one can visit the entire national park area. |
Ramganga is the most important river in Corbett Country as it forms the most predominant hydrological resource. A typical rain water river and originating from Gairsain, the Ramganaga runs for more than 100 kms before entering the reserve near Marchula. Inside Corbett National Park, it flows till Kalagarh and then hitting the plains gathering water from rivers like Sonanadi. Ramganga is home to the famous game fish of India, Mahaseer along with other aquatic species like the endangered Gharials, crocodiles and turtles. The river also attracts a lot of migratory birds from Europe and Asia.