Explore wildlife tourism in Uttarakhand—from iconic Jim Corbett to hidden sanctuaries like Rajaji, Askot, and Nandhaur. Jungle adventure awaits!
spiritual-and-wellness-travel
26 Jun 2025
3
Mousam Kourav
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Month Range | Wildlife Parks Active |
October – March | Jim Corbett, Rajaji, Binsar |
April – June | Best for big cat sightings |
July – Sept | Most parks closed (monsoon) |
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.
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.
Which is better, Jim Corbett or Rajaji National Park?
Jim Corbett is ideal for tigers and jeep safaris. Rajaji is great for elephants and quick getaways.
Are there offbeat wildlife places in Uttarakhand?
Yes! Try Nandhaur, Askot, or Govind Sanctuary for less crowded jungle experiences.
Can I stay inside Jim Corbett National Park?
Yes, the Dhikala zone offers forest lodges inside the park—book early!
What’s the best time for tiger sightings in Corbett?
April to June offers higher chances, especially in Bijrani and Dhikala zones.
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