Holiday Resorts in Corbett

1. Downloaded from: justpaste.it/holiday-resorts-in-Corbett Adventurous Vacation in the Lush Green Forests of Jim Corbett National Park When a wildlife lover arrives to the deciding phase of planning their vacation, wildlife holidays in the Northern part of India- Jim Corbett national park is one assured destination that they just can’t seem to ignore. The place being close to the Himalayan mountain belt is another appealing factor. It is nestled in between Himalayas and Shivaliks in the state of Uttarakhand. Due to high number of tourist footfall, the place has become home to several holiday resorts in Corbett that cater to the needs to distinctive tourist types. Though the state is famous for Garhwal, Kumaon, holy pilgrim sites like Badrinath, Kedarnath which are located amidst beautiful backdrops of Himalayas, it comes as no surprise when the first National Park (protected areas) of our country is set up here, Jim Corbett National Park in Nainital district. As we navigate the tough terrain of Corbett in a jeep with bumpy rides for several hours searching for animals, we find our soul in this journey and maybe you will leave a part of it there. Shortlisting your choice of holiday resort in Corbett is utmost essential. History of Corbett National Park The park was named after Jim Corbett, a famous British hunter who turned into a conservationist towards later part of his life. He convinced the then British Raj to convert it in to a National Park to protect mainly Bengal Tigers. One of the top ten national parks in India (area-wise), Corbett, covering an area of 1300 sq.km. was established in 1936. As a remembrance to him, a statue of Jim Corbett is unveiled at the park entrance.

2. Altitudes inside the forest vary between 400 m to 1200 m and the landscape is a wonderful mix of open grasslands interspersed between dense vegetation predominantly by Sal and Peepal Trees, lakes, hills, marshes, Ramganga river flowing like forest veins. Close to 600 species of birds (including resident and migrants) and 500 species of plants and trees call Jim Corbett their home. Vast area of the park makes it easier for the animals to become elusive. Though there are plenty of Bengal Tigers, a good tracking is needed to spot them. During summer months, we can see one of the largest congregation of elephants too. Each herd might have more than a few hundred elephants at times. Other animals such as Leopards, deer, otters, mongoose, yellow-throated martens, Himalayan Black Bear are also found here. The region has also witnessed establishment of spa resorts in Jim Corbett that focus on providing the tourists with a pleasant experience without harming the sanctity of the jungles. Zones of Jim Corbett National Park Ecotourism is allowed only in designated zones inside the park. Many of the core zones remain closed during monsoon season due to heavy rainfall. Ramnagar is the closest city and we need to hire gypsy vehicles (jeeps) for safari inside the forest. Most of the holiday resorts in Corbett are located on the close proximity to these zones. Bijrani Zone It is the closest entry from Ramnagar. As we move past the gate, soon noise from the city fades away. Numerous birds can be spotted on the way to forest rest house, an erstwhile hunting complex now converted to accommodate visitors. Bijrani is an absolute wilderness especially when night falls as there is no electricity here (be sure to charge your camera batteries) and we are provided only with solar lamps. There is no mobile connectivity too which makes it the perfect retreat for a digital detox. Landscape in Bijrani is a mix of river plains and open grasslands.

3. Elephant ride is available from this zone which is booked on a first come first server basis. When we visited, “Sharmili” the tiger crossed right in front of our jeep. It is an experience that would not fade away from our memory soon. Food is provided in the canteen for additional cost. A minimum of 4 safaris (2 days) are needed to cover the area. Dhikala Zone Arguably one of the most beautiful parts of the forests, entry from gate to forest rest house takes about an hour or so which passes through dense Sal forests. As we wait patiently in our jeep with only the sound of wind blowing or an occasional rustling of leaves, our mind becomes calm and embraces silence. Tall grass sways gently in the wind and reveals spotted deer or endangered Hog deer foraging for food. It makes us realise the congested fast city life we are leading and what nature really has to offer. On a late evening, we were lucky to witness a herd of elephants cross the river near Sambhar road along with their little ones. We watched them engage in mock fight, smaller elephants pampered by others and big tuskers scattered here and there. The sunrise view from the reservoir located at one end of the zone is worth sacrificing our sleep. “Parvaali” is an another famous tiger in this part of the jungle and she is often very bold in front of the gypsy vehicles.

4. A minimum of 4 safaris (2 days) are needed to do proper justice. Spa resorts in Jim Corbett has various types of accommodation, which can be checked and booked as per tourist requirements. The network connection that works better in the area is usually airtel or BSNL. Buffet food provided at various holiday resorts in corbett is very good. There is also another small canteen that provides food for a cheaper rate (less tasty). Durgadevi Zone Hilly zone of Durgadevi is a paradise for bird watchers. Varying altitudes along with dense tree cover provides excellent opportunity to spot birds. Safari vehicles take you a little further after Domunda Bridge where we can spot the famous Mahsheer fish. Plan to book one or two safaris in this zone.