The air is full of tangy fragrances and the sound of twittering birds. Herds of spotted deer graze close by as if aware that the tiger has just had a meal and will not bother them for several hours. That is Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve for you.
The World of Corbett [Illustration by Shinod AP]
The Ramganga river, which flows through the forest, houses a large variety of fish, Mahseer being the most popular among anglers. You can also see crocodiles and gharials in plenty.
In addition to all this, the park boasts of a huge variety of birds: pelicans, herons, storks, falcons, eagles, kaleej pheasants, vultures, jacanas, plovers, owls, barbets, hornbills and larks among others.
Lying in the Patlidan valley of the Kumaon hill range, the Corbett Tiger Reserve extends over 521 kilometres in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Originally named the Hailey National Park in 1936 after the governor of the United Provinces, Sir Malcolm Hailey, it was renamed ‘Ramganga National Park’ post Independence.
And, after the death of Jim Corbett, the legendary hero who hunted man-eating tigers and helped the local hill folk, it was again renamed ‘Corbett National Park’.
On the edge of the park is a place called Kaladhungi, where Corbett lived and spent his life. During his stay here, Corbett gained incredible knowledge of the jungle and the knack of being a part of it. He could read the jungle signs with ease and could even imitate the sounds made by various animals. As time passed, he gave up the gun and took to the camera.
When you go to Corbett park, do not forget yours, some sunscreen lotion, sun hats, flashlights and some mosquito repellent. The best time to visit this awesome place is between February and May. The park remains closed from mid-June to mid-November.
