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Plan an unforgettable journey following in the footsteps of legendary hunter and conservationist Jim Corbett. Begin your adventure in the picturesque Kumaon Valley, including Almora and Ranikhet – which deeply influenced his life and writings. Visit Corbett National Park, India’s first national park, established in 1936 to honor his conservation efforts to experience its varied species, a forest that he deeply loved. Explore the dense forests and diverse wildlife and venture on the trail that inspired his famous book, “Man-Eaters of Kumaon”. Enhance your trip with a visit to Shimla, the former British winter capital from 1912 onwards, to experience colonial-era architecture and charm.
At A Glance
Nearest Airport
Pantnagar/Dehradun
Best Time to Visit
November - February
Forests
Dense moist deciduous forests
Activities
Wildlife, Safari
Minimum Recommended Stay
02 to 04 days
From Shimla, venture to Chail to see the world’s highest cricket pitch and the majestic palace of the Maharaja, renowned for its opulence and intriguing history. Chail holds relevance to Corbett’s story as it was a popular retreat for British officials and adventurers like him, providing a backdrop to many of his expeditions. This excursion offers a blend of thrilling wildlife experiences and a deep dive into the historical landscapes that shaped Corbett’s life and legacy.
HAPPY HATHI TIP
Corbett serves as a natural gateway to some of Uttarakhand’s best birding hotspots, from Bhimtal and Sattal all the way up to Munsiyari. These regions offer birders the chance to explore a range of elevations and enjoy exceptional sightings, supported by excellent birdwatching infrastructure in the higher mountains.
Happy Hathi Recommends
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Explore different areas of Corbett for safaris including the famous Dhikala grasslands.
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Discover the less-explored Sitabani Forest Reserve and neighbouring areas, staying in selected lodges that are a part of the larger Corbett landscape but outside the core zones.
Suggested Itineraries
Jim Corbett’s Legacy: Wild India’s First Reserve
5 nights, 6 days
Established in 1936, Corbett remains a cornerstone of Project Tiger and India’s conservation story.
Explore dense sal forests, river valleys, grasslands, and the foothills of the Himalaya—all in one park.
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Terai’s Jungle Tale: Dudhwa Revealed
4 nights, 5 days
Though elusive, Dudhwa’s varied habitats give real chances to see Bengal tigers and Indian one-horned rhinos
A star conservation success; huge herds of swamp deer roam central grasslands, especially visible during the dry season.
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A Journey into India’s Small Wild Cats
11 nights, 12 days
Traverse wetlands, dry deciduous forests, rocky scrub, and alpine deserts in search of species adapted to each unique habitat
Track Fishing Cats in Dudhwa or the Sundarbans; Rusty-spotted Cats in Bera or Satpura; Eurasian Lynx in Ladakh’s alpine valleys.
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Central Indian Wildlife Expedition
14 nights, 15 days
Go on jeep safaris in Kanha
Spot tigers in Bandhavgarh
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Taj, Tigers & Temples
11 nights, 12 days
Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal
Go on thrilling safaris in Ranthambore
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Tigers & Golden Triangle
12 nights, 13 days
Witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise
Go on safaris in Ranthambore
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Terai’s Hidden Jewel: Pilibhit Tiger Reserve
4 nights, 5 days
One of India’s reserves showing strong tiger population growth; also home to leopards, sloth bears, swamp deer, elephants, and rich prey species
Over 400 species including migratory birds, water birds at wetlands like Jhand Tal, Barahasingha Tal, and diverse forest avifauna.
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Explore Ladakh
12 nights, 13 days
Drive up to Khardung La Pass
Visit ancient monasteries in Leh
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A South Indian Odyssey
11 nights, 12 days
Explore Brihadeeswarar and Meenakshi temples
Visit Mahabalipuram’s UNESCO-listed Shore Temple
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