Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park: Wilderness Drive & Royal Bengal Tiger Safari
Escape city noise for the dense sal forests of India’s oldest national park. Comprehensive guide to Jeep safaris in Dhikala & Bijrani zones, riverside luxury resorts, and birdwatching.
- Distance245 km
- Drive time5 - 5.5 hours
- Best timeNovember to June (Dhikala zone opens Nov 15)
- RecommendedInnova Crysta 7-Seater
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Nainital district, Jim Corbett National Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and families seeking an authentic jungle adventure just 5 hours away from Delhi NCR.
1. The Route Guide via NH9
From Delhi, take the Delhi-Meerut Expressway to Dasna, then transition smoothly onto NH9 (NH24) four-lane highway towards Hapur and Garhmukteshwar. Take the wide Moradabad bypass towards Kashipur and Ramnagar—the gateway town to Jim Corbett.
Wildlife Safari Quick Facts
- Total Distance: 245 km
- Drive Time: 5 hours
- Safari Zones: Dhikala (famous for grasslands & elephant herds), Bijrani (highest tiger density), Jhirna & Dhela (open year-round).
- Important: Pre-book forest department safari permits 45 days in advance online.
2. Top Experiences in Corbett
- Morning & Afternoon 4x4 Jeep Safari: Spot Royal Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, spotted deer, barking deer, and over 600 species of migratory birds.
- Garjiya Devi Temple: A revered sacred shrine perched atop a massive rock boulder in the middle of the flowing Kosi River.
- Corbett Museum & Heritage Bungalow: Explore legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett’s winter home at Kaladhungi.
- Kosi River Strolls & Campfires: Unwind at luxury eco-resorts with evening acoustic music, bonfire dinners, and star-gazing.
Trip highlights
- Fast drive on NH9 bypassing busy Moradabad city
- Open-top 4x4 Jeep safaris in Dhikala, Bijrani & Jhirna zones
- Luxury riverside jungle resorts along the Kosi River
- Corbett Waterfall, Garjiya Devi Temple & Sitabani buffer zone
Suggested itinerary
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Day 1
Delhi to Ramnagar
Drive via Hapur, Moradabad and Kashipur to Ramnagar, the gateway to Corbett. Check in to a resort along the Kosi river.
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Day 1 evening
Evening at Garjiya Devi
Visit the temple perched on a rock in the Kosi river, a short drive from most resorts.
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Day 2 morning
Morning jeep safari
Take an early open-jeep safari in Bijrani, Jhirna or Dhela zones for the best chance of spotting tigers, elephants and deer.
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Day 2 afternoon
Corbett Falls & museum
Visit Corbett Waterfall and Jim Corbett's heritage home at Kaladhungi, now a museum.
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Day 3
Return to Delhi
Optional second safari in the morning, then a 6-hour drive back to Delhi.
Route map
Driving route from Delhi to Jim Corbett via NH9 via Hapur, Moradabad, Kashipur & Ramnagar.
Recommended stops on the way
Gajraula highway dhabas
Popular midway breakfast stop on NH9.
Moradabad
Known for its brassware markets.
Kashipur
Last major town before the forest belt.
Practical travel tips
Book safari permits online well in advance; Dhikala and Bijrani fill up quickly in peak season.
Dhikala zone usually opens from mid-November to mid-June; core zones close during the monsoon.
Wear earthy colours and keep silent during safaris to improve wildlife sightings.
Carry your original ID; it is checked at the safari gate against your permit.
Delhi to Jim Corbett: FAQs
How far is Jim Corbett from Delhi?
Ramnagar is roughly 250-260 km from Delhi, about 5 to 6 hours by road.
Which safari zone is best?
Dhikala and Bijrani have the highest tiger sightings; Jhirna and Dhela are open year-round and easier to book.
Can the Innova go on the safari?
No. Safaris inside the reserve are only allowed in registered open jeeps or canters; your Innova waits at the resort or gate.
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