Wildlife Tourism in Uttarakhand: Jim Corbett and Beyond

Uttarakhand, known for its sacred mountains and holy rivers, is also one of India’s top wildlife tourism hubs. While Jim Corbett National Park attracts global tourists for its tigers and jeep safaris, there’s so much more beyond it.

From Rajaji’s elephants to Askot’s musk deer, the forests of Uttarakhand are teeming with rare species and thrilling jungle landscapes.

If you're a nature lover or adventure seeker, here’s your guide to Wildlife Tourism in Uttarakhand: Jim Corbett and Beyond—perfect for 2025.

1. Jim Corbett National Park (Nainital District)

• Fame: India’s first national park (1936), world-famous for Bengal Tigers.

• Safari Zones: Bijrani, Dhikala, Jhirna, Dhela, Garjiya & Sonanadi.

• Wildlife: Tigers, elephants, leopards, gharials, over 600 bird species.

• Stay Options: Forest lodges inside Dhikala, eco-resorts in Ramnagar.

✅ Best For: First-time wildlife tourists, photographers, luxury jungle stays.

2. Rajaji National Park (Haridwar, Dehradun, Rishikesh)

• Famous For: Asiatic elephants, leopards, sloth bears, hornbills.

• Activities: Jeep safaris from Chilla, birdwatching, rafting near Ganga.

• Accessibility: Closest wildlife park to Delhi (approx. 4–5 hrs drive).

✅ Perfect For: Weekend wildlife getaways, nature photography, family trips.

3. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary (Almora)

• Altitude: Located at ~2,400 m, offers Himalayan views + oak forests.

• Special Sightings: Barking deer, Himalayan goral, flying squirrel, eagles.

• Unique: No jeep safaris—trekking and birding is the way to go here.

✅ Best For: Trekkers, birdwatchers, and peaceful eco-tourists.

4. Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary (Haldwani Region)

• Hidden Gem: Part of the Terai Arc Landscape near the Nepal border.

• Wildlife: Tigers, leopards, elephants, wild boars, over 200 bird species.

• Why Go: Less commercialized than Corbett; dense sal forests and rivers.

✅ Great For: Offbeat explorers and researchers.

5. Askot Wildlife Sanctuary (Pithoragarh District)

• Altitude Range: From 600 m to 6,905 m—diverse landscapes!

• Rare Wildlife: Musk deer (Kasturi Mrig), snow leopards, Himalayan black bear.

• Also Known For: Trekking to Chiplakot and Darma Valley.

✅ Ideal For: Adventure-seekers, rare species lovers, high-altitude treks.

6. Govind Wildlife Sanctuary (Uttarkashi)

• Location: On the way to Har Ki Dun trek, part of Western Himalayas.

• Wildlife: Snow leopards, bharals (blue sheep), monals.

• Best Time: April–June, September–November.

✅ Good For: Trekkers combining adventure with rare wildlife encounters.

7. Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary (Buffer Zone of Corbett)

• Location: Between Kotdwar and Ramnagar.

• Biodiversity Hotspot: Leopards, elephants, deer, reptiles, 500+ bird species.

• Stay: Forest rest houses near Kolhuchaur and Halduparao.

✅ Perfect For: Birders, budget wildlife tourists, solitude-seekers.

Best Time to Visit

Wildlife Travel Tips

• Book Safaris in Advance: Especially for Jim Corbett and Rajaji (core zones fill quickly).

• Stay Inside the Forest: Dhikala or forest lodges offer the most immersive experience.

• Respect the Jungle: Don’t litter, play music, or get too close to animals.

• Go with Guides: They help you spot animals safely and share great insights.

Final Thoughts

Uttarakhand is more than just mountains and temples—it’s a wildlife wonderland. From the iconic Jim Corbett safaris to the lesser-known sanctuaries like Askot and Nandhaur, there’s a jungle out there for every kind of traveler.

So if you're dreaming of jungle roars, birdsongs, and peaceful nature lodges, it’s time to explore wildlife tourism in Uttarakhand — beyond just Corbett.