Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand near the border with Nepal, is one of India's most famous wildlife sanctuaries. Known for its Bengal tigers and diverse flora and fauna, it attracts nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers from across the country and abroad.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Corbett National Park, whether you are traveling from Delhi, Dehradun, or nearby cities. From trains and buses to self-drive and flights, you will find detailed advice to plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Major Cities to Corbett National Park – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical option for reaching Corbett National Park, especially from Delhi and nearby regions. The closest railway stations offer good connectivity, but some last-mile travel is usually required.

• Nearest railway stations:

  Ramnagar Railway Station is the closest to Corbett, about 10 km away. It is well connected to Delhi and Moradabad via regular trains, making it convenient for most travelers.

• Train options and timings:

  Several trains like the Ranikhet Express and Corbett Park Link Express run daily from Delhi to Ramnagar, taking around 5-6 hours. Ticket prices range from INR 150 (sleeper) to INR 800 (AC classes).

• Booking and comfort:

  Book tickets via IRCTC in advance, especially during peak seasons. Trains are generally clean and safe, but expect crowds during holidays. Sleeper and AC coaches offer decent comfort for the journey.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Ramnagar station, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and shared jeeps are available to reach the park gates. Prepaid taxis from the station are recommended to avoid overcharging.

• Seasonal tips:

  Trains can be crowded during winter and holidays; book early. Avoid traveling late at night due to limited last-mile transport options.

Bus

Buses provide an affordable and flexible way to reach Corbett National Park from nearby cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Nainital. State transport and private operators run regular services.

• Bus routes and operators:

  Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private Volvo buses run daily from Delhi ISBT Anand Vihar to Ramnagar. The journey takes about 6-7 hours depending on traffic.

• Ticket costs and classes:

  Non-AC buses cost around INR 300-400, while Volvo AC buses range between INR 700-900. Booking online via state transport portals or private apps is advisable.

• Frequency and timings:

  Buses run frequently in the morning and evening. Night buses are available but less recommended due to last-mile connectivity issues.

• Comfort and road conditions:

  The NH9 highway to Ramnagar is generally in good condition, with scenic views of the foothills. Expect some traffic near Delhi and during festivals.

• Local transport from Ramnagar:

  Upon arrival, use local taxis or shared autos to reach the park’s entrance. Confirm fares beforehand to avoid haggling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Corbett National Park is an excellent option for travelers who prefer flexibility and want to explore the region at their own pace. The roads are well maintained with good signage.

• Route details:

  From Delhi, take NH9 via Ghaziabad, Moradabad, and Rampur to Ramnagar. The distance is approximately 260 km and takes around 5-6 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions and tolls:

  The highway is mostly smooth with multiple toll plazas. Fuel stations and eateries like Haldiram’s and roadside dhabas are available en route for breaks.

• Driving tips:

  Start early to avoid Delhi’s peak traffic and reach Ramnagar by afternoon. Avoid night driving during monsoon due to slippery patches near forest areas.

• Parking and permits:

  Parking is available near park gates and resorts. Ensure you have the necessary forest entry permits and vehicle passes, which can be arranged online or at the park office.

• Scenic stops:

  Consider short detours to places like Garjiya Devi Temple and Sitabani Forest Reserve for a richer experience.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach the region, with the nearest airports offering good connectivity to major Indian cities. However, additional ground travel is required to reach the park.

• Nearest airports:

  Pantnagar Airport (about 70 km from Corbett) and Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (around 120 km) are the closest. Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is the major hub for connecting flights.

• Flight options and costs:

  Daily flights operate from Delhi to Pantnagar and Dehradun, with fares ranging from INR 2,000 to 5,000 depending on the season and airline.

• Ground transport from airports:

  From Pantnagar or Dehradun, taxis and buses are available to Ramnagar or directly to the park. The drive takes 2-3 hours, so plan accordingly.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early during peak tourist seasons (October to June). Check for last-minute deals on domestic travel apps like MakeMyTrip or Yatra.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights may be delayed during monsoon due to fog or rain. Morning flights are generally more reliable.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers to Corbett National Park, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains and official state transport websites or apps for buses. Early booking avoids last-minute hassles, especially during holidays.

• Reach your departure point early:

  Arrive at Delhi’s Anand Vihar ISBT or railway station at least 30 minutes before departure to secure good seats and avoid rush.

• Prepare for last-mile travel:

  On arrival at Ramnagar, use prepaid taxis or verified auto-rickshaws to reach your accommodation or park gate safely.

• Carry essential documents:

  Keep your ID proof, park entry permits, and vehicle papers handy to avoid delays at checkpoints.

• Plan your arrival time:

  Aim to reach Ramnagar by afternoon to check in and rest before an early morning safari the next day.

• Pack smartly:

  Carry light luggage, comfortable shoes, and insect repellent for forest visits. Avoid plastic bags as the park has strict environmental rules.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Always follow park rules and stay inside vehicles during safaris. Use authorized guides to enhance safety and wildlife spotting.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and snacks, but avoid littering. Local eateries in Ramnagar offer hygienic meals; try Kumaoni cuisine for an authentic experience.

• Booking strategy:

  Reserve safari slots and accommodation well in advance through official park websites or trusted agents to avoid disappointment.

• Local commute apps:

  Use Ola or Uber in Ramnagar for reliable taxi services, especially after dark when public transport is limited.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light and waterproof bags during monsoon. Keep your camera and binoculars handy for wildlife viewing.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon months (July-August) due to road closures and limited safari availability.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Corbett National Park is from November to June when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. Monsoon months bring heavy rains, making some areas inaccessible.

Plan your travel to avoid peak traffic and enjoy smooth journeys with minimal delays.

• Avoid weekends and festival periods like Diwali and Holi when roads and accommodations are crowded.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, so schedule safaris post 9 AM for better visibility.

• Start early morning drives to catch animals when they are most active and to avoid afternoon heat.

• During summer, carry sun protection and stay hydrated as temperatures can rise above 35°C.

Arrival at Corbett National Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Corbett, travelers are greeted by lush greenery and the sounds of the forest. The main park gates like Bijrani, Dhikala, and Jhirna offer different safari experiences catering to various interests and budgets.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, resort shuttles, and shared jeeps. Nearby towns like Ramnagar have good accommodation ranging from budget lodges to luxury resorts.

Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Garjiya Devi Temple, Corbett Museum, and Sitabani Forest Reserve. The park’s entry points have visitor centers providing maps, permits, and guide services.

Conclusion

Among all options, traveling by train to Ramnagar followed by a short taxi ride is the most balanced choice for comfort, cost, and convenience. It offers direct connectivity and easy access to the park’s main gates.

With proper planning and timely bookings, your journey to Corbett National Park can be smooth and memorable. Embrace the adventure and wildlife wonders confidently, knowing you have all the travel details at your fingertips.