The Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR), originally established as Hailey National Park in 1936, stands as a testament to India’s rich wildlife conservation heritage. Located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, CTR is not only the first national park in India but also the first to come under the Project Tiger initiative, reflecting its pivotal role in the country’s efforts to protect its majestic tiger population. Renamed in honor of Jim Corbett in 1956, a hunter-turned-naturalist who played a crucial role in its establishment, the park is a living symbol of conservation success.
Historical Background and Significance
Corbett Tiger Reserve’s origins date back to the early 20th century when the British administration recognized the need to protect the region’s wildlife. Established as Hailey National Park, it was named after Sir Malcolm Hailey, the then Governor of the United Provinces. In 1956, the park was renamed in honor of Jim Corbett, whose efforts in wildlife conservation and his role in establishing the park were instrumental. His legacy continues to inspire conservationists worldwide.
Geographical Features and Biodiversity
Spanning an impressive 1,288.31 square kilometers, Corbett Tiger Reserve’s diverse landscape includes hills, riverine areas, grasslands, and a large water body. The reserve’s elevation ranges from 1,300 to 4,000 feet, featuring sub-Himalayan ecological characteristics. This varied topography creates a haven for a wide array of flora and fauna, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
Flora
The reserve is home to 617 plant species, including numerous trees, shrubs, grasses, climbers, ferns, and herbs. The dominant vegetation type is Sal (Shorea robusta) forest, which covers 40% of the reserve. Some sizable patches of pure Sal are found especially between Dhangarhi and Dhikala, and along the slopes of the reserve’s northern boundary. Other notable tree species include the Chironji Tree, Dhauri or Crape Myrtle, and the Jamun.
Fauna
Corbett Tiger Reserve boasts an impressive array of wildlife, with 50 mammal species, 580 bird species, and 25 reptile species. The park is renowned for having the world’s highest density of tigers, making it a crucial stronghold for the species. Other notable mammals include elephants, leopards, and various species of deer. Bird enthusiasts can spot a variety of birds, from the vibrant Indian Pitta to the majestic Crested Serpent Eagle.
Types of Forests and Grasslands
The Corbett Tiger Reserve features a mix of forest types and grasslands, each supporting unique ecosystems and wildlife.
Hill Sal Forest
Hill Sal forests occur along the southern slopes of the Shivaliks. These forests consist of Sal, Asan Saj or Indian Laurel, Kumbhi or Wild Guava, Chironji Tree, Dhauri or Crape Myrtle, Godambi or the dhobi nut tree, and the Jamun. These forests are characterized by dense tree cover and a rich understory of shrubs and herbs, providing essential habitat for many species.
Riverine Forests
Riverine forests are found in the floodplains and along the rivers, on the sots and on raised areas near river beds. These forests predominantly comprise Khair and Shisham. Moist riverine forests also have evergreen trees such as the Fig tree, Amaltas, Jamun, Rohini, Chamrod, and the Murraya or Curry Leaf Tree. These forests are vital for maintaining the ecological balance of the region, supporting a variety of wildlife, including many bird species and aquatic animals.
Grassland Habitats
The grassland habitats, locally known as ‘Chaur’, are characterized by open meadows interspersed with Sal and moist mixed deciduous forests. These grasslands are an outcome of abandoned settlements or past clearings and constitute almost 20% of the old National Park area of the core. The grasslands are gradually getting colonized by gregarious woody species, creating a dynamic and evolving landscape.
There are three main types of grasslands in Corbett Tiger Reserve:
- Tall Floodplain Grasslands: These grasslands grow in areas temporarily inundated by rivers. An example is the grasses at the water’s edge of the Ramganga Reservoir.
- Open Grasslands: These are previously cultivated fields, such as the Dhikala Chaur, Jhirna, and Dhela Chaur. They are characterized by open spaces with sparse tree cover, providing excellent grazing grounds for herbivores.
- Wooded Grasslands: These are coarse grasses found in the undergrowth throughout the upper slopes of the Shivalik hills, where soil is shallow and canopy cover is sparse. Such places remain devoid of any vegetation after the grasses dry up, providing a unique habitat for certain species.
Tourist Zones in Corbett Tiger Reserve
To promote tourism while ensuring conservation, Corbett National Park has been divided into six major tourist zones. These zones are the manifested core or buffer areas of the park where visitors can partake in wildlife safaris and experience the region’s natural beauty.
Bijrani Safari Zone
Bijrani Zone is a popular tourist hub due to its abundant natural beauty and open grasslands. The entry gate is located just 1 km from Ramnagar city, making it easily accessible for visitors. This zone offers excellent opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the serene landscapes.
Jhirna Safari Zone
Jhirna is another important tourist zone in the park, open to tourists year-round. Located 16 km from Ramnagar city, Jhirna Gate provides access to a diverse range of wildlife and beautiful natural scenery.
Dhela Safari Zone
Dhela is a new eco-tourism zone included in the tiger reserve in November 2014. It is the only area in the reserve’s buffer zone open to tourists. Located approximately 13 km from Ramnagar city, Dhela Zone attracts a large number of visitors due to its rich biodiversity and year-round accessibility.
Dhikala Zone
As the largest and most diversified jungle safari zone in Corbett, Dhikala is renowned for its natural beauty and exotic fauna. The entry gate is 18 km from Ramnagar city. A night stay inside the Dhikala Tourism Zone is highly recommended for hardcore wildlife enthusiasts, offering an immersive experience in the heart of the park.
Durga Devi Zone
Located at the northeastern boundary of the park, Durga Devi Zone is a paradise for bird watchers. The entry gate is approximately 36 km from Ramnagar city. This zone is less frequented by tourists, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter, more serene experience.
Sitabani Buffer Zone
Sitabani Zone does not fall under the Corbett Tiger Reserve area but is worth visiting for its serene ambiance and natural beauty. It is an excellent spot for nature lovers who want to experience the tranquility of the region.
Jeep Safari in Corbett Tiger Reserve
Jeep safaris are a popular way to explore Corbett Tiger Reserve, offering a thrilling and immersive wildlife experience. Safaris are available only within the Corbett Sanctuary Zone, providing an opportunity to witness the region’s wildlife up close.
Safari Timings
The Morning Safari timings are from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM during winter and 5:30 AM to 8:30 AM during summer. The evening safari timings are from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM during winter and 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM during summer. These safaris offer visitors a chance to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat, from the elusive tiger to herds of elephants and numerous bird species.
How to Reach Corbett Tiger Reserve
Corbett Tiger Reserve is easily accessible from various parts of India, with Ramnagar serving as the primary gateway to the park.
By Road
Ramnagar is well connected by road networks with major cities such as Delhi, Moradabad, Nainital, and Bareilly. The state government of Uttarakhand operates buses at regular intervals from these cities to Corbett. The park is approximately 260 kilometers from Delhi, making it a convenient destination for a weekend getaway.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is in Ramnagar, which receives trains from various major cities, including Delhi, Moradabad, and Bareilly. Direct trains to Ramnagar, such as the Ranikhet Express, Corbett Link Express, and Kathgodam Express, provide easy access for travelers.
By Air
The closest airport to Corbett Tiger Reserve is Pant Nagar Airport, located 80 km away. Taxis, buses, and other road transport are readily available from the airport to the park. The nearest international airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. Pant Nagar Airport is connected to Delhi by daily flights and major destinations in India, making it a convenient option for international travelers.
Conclusion
Corbett Tiger Reserve, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife, is a shining example of successful conservation efforts in India. From its establishment as Hailey National Park to its current status as a premier wildlife sanctuary under the Project Tiger initiative, CTR continues to play a crucial role in preserving India’s natural heritage. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, Corbett Tiger Reserve offers an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature and witness the beauty and majesty of the animal kingdom.
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