How to Reach Jim Corbett National Park – A Complete Travel Guide to India’s Oldest Tiger Reserve

Jim Corbett National Park, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is India’s first and oldest national park, established in 1936. Home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, elephants, leopards, and over 600 bird species, Corbett attracts nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and adventure seekers all year round.

Whether you're coming from Delhi, Dehradun, or anywhere in India, here's how you can reach Jim Corbett National Park by air, train, and road.

✈️ By Air: Nearest Airports to Jim Corbett

Pantnagar Airport (PGH) is the nearest airport to Jim Corbett, followed by Delhi International Airport for better connectivity.

1. Pantnagar Airport (PGH)✅ Distance: ~80 km✔ Travel Time: ~2 hours📌 Limited flights, mostly from Delhi – best for regional travelers

2. Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL)✅ Distance: ~250 km✔ Travel Time: ~5–6 hours by road📌 Best choice for both domestic and international travelers

✈️ From either airport, taxis and car rentals are easily available to Corbett (especially to Ramnagar town, the park's main entry point).

🚆 By Train: Nearest Railway Station to Jim Corbett

Ramnagar Railway Station (RMR) is the closest and most convenient railhead to the park.

Ramnagar Railway Station (RMR)✅ Located just 12 km from the park’s main entry gate✔ Connected to Delhi, Moradabad, Bareilly, Lucknow, and Varanasi📌 Daily trains like Ranikhet Express and Corbett Link Express run from Delhi

🚖 From Ramnagar, taxis, autos, and local buses are available to various gates and resorts near the park.

🚗 By Road: Drive or Bus to Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett is well connected via highways and scenic roads from major cities in North India.

✅ From Delhi: ~250 km / 5–6 hours (via NH9)✅ From Nainital: ~65 km / 2 hours✅ From Dehradun: ~180 km / 5 hours✅ From Bareilly: ~160 km / 4 hours

📌 Regular buses run by UTC (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation) and private operators connect Delhi to Ramnagar. Self-drive or hiring a cab offers more comfort and flexibility.

🚗 Tip: The route from Delhi via Moradabad and Kashipur is the fastest and smoothest.

🚪 Entry Gates & Safari Zones

Jim Corbett has multiple entry gates, each leading to different safari zones. Each zone offers a unique wilderness experience.

Safari Zone	Entry Gate	Distance from Ramnagar
Dhikala Zone	Dhangarhi Gate	~18 km
Bijrani Zone	Amdanda Gate	~2 km
Jhirna Zone	Dhela Gate	~15 km
Dhela Zone	Dhela Gate	~15 km
Durga Devi Zone	Durga Devi Gate	~30 km
Sitabani Buffer	Sitabani Gate	~25 km

✅ Dhikala is the most popular and offers canter safaris and night stays inside the forest📌 Safari bookings should be done online in advance, especially during the peak season (Nov–June)

🧭 Travel Tips

• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to June (monsoon: July–October – limited zones open)

• 🛏️ Stay Options: Forest lodges (in Dhikala), eco-resorts, and luxury hotels in Ramnagar

• 🧳 Essentials: Camera, binoculars, ID proof, hat, sunglasses, light jackets (in winter)

• ⚠️ Safari is only allowed with registered guides and vehicles provided by the forest department

🌿 Experience the Legendary Wilderness of Corbett

Whether you dream of spotting a tiger in the wild or listening to the early morning calls of peacocks and deer, Jim Corbett National Park offers an unforgettable escape into nature. With its rich history, diverse habitats, and thrilling safaris, it remains one of India’s top wildlife destinations.