How to Reach Jim Corbett from Delhi – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Jim Corbett from Delhi by train, bus, car, or taxi with detailed travel tips, timings, and local advice for a smooth journey.
Jim Corbett National Park is located in Uttarakhand, about 250 kilometers northeast of Delhi. It is one of India’s most famous wildlife sanctuaries, known for its Bengal tigers and beautiful natural surroundings. Many travelers from Delhi visit Jim Corbett for a weekend getaway or wildlife adventure.
This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Jim Corbett. You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and taxis, along with practical tips to make your trip comfortable and hassle-free.
Getting from Delhi to Jim Corbett – Main Options
Train
Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for many visitors. Trains connect Delhi to nearby stations close to Jim Corbett, offering a comfortable journey with scenic views.
The nearest major railway station to Jim Corbett is Ramnagar, about 10 km from the park entrance. Trains from Delhi’s Anand Vihar Terminal and Old Delhi station run daily to Ramnagar, covering roughly 260 km in 5 to 6 hours.
Train fares range from INR 150 to INR 600 depending on the class, with options like general, sleeper, and AC coaches. Booking through IRCTC is recommended to secure seats in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Trains are generally punctual but can face delays during monsoon months due to track maintenance or fog in winter mornings. Early morning trains are less crowded and more comfortable.
Ramnagar station has basic facilities and auto-rickshaws or taxis are available outside for the 10 km ride to Jim Corbett park gates. Prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber can be booked for safer last-mile travel.
Bus
Buses offer a budget-friendly and frequent way to reach Jim Corbett from Delhi. Several government and private operators run services daily on this route.
Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private buses depart from ISBT Kashmiri Gate and Anand Vihar bus terminals in Delhi, covering about 260 km in 6 to 7 hours depending on traffic.
Bus types include ordinary, deluxe, and Volvo AC coaches. Fares range between INR 300 and INR 700. Volvo buses are more comfortable for long journeys but less frequent.
Peak travel times are early mornings and evenings. Buses can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets online or in advance at the bus station is advisable.
The main bus stop near Jim Corbett is Ramnagar bus stand, from where local taxis and autos are available for the final 10 km to the park entrance. Night buses are less common, so plan accordingly.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving from Delhi to Jim Corbett is a flexible and comfortable option, especially if you want to explore the region at your own pace. The route is well-connected by national highways.
The distance is approximately 250 km via NH9 and NH309, taking about 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Early morning departures help avoid Delhi city congestion.
The route passes through Ghaziabad, Hapur, and Moradabad, with multiple toll plazas charging around INR 200 to INR 300 in total. Fuel stations and roadside eateries are available along the way.
Driving during monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and occasional landslides near the foothills. Winter fog can reduce visibility in the early mornings.
Parking is available near Jim Corbett park gates and most resorts. Self-drive cars can be rented from Delhi with providers offering GPS and driver assistance if needed.
Taxi / Cab
Hiring a taxi or cab from Delhi to Jim Corbett is a convenient choice for travelers who prefer door-to-door service without driving themselves.
Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola Outstation and Uber Intercity can be booked for the 5 to 6-hour journey covering around 250 km. Fares typically range from INR 3500 to INR 6000 depending on the vehicle type.
Taxi drivers usually wait at the park entrance or your hotel, allowing flexible return timings. This option suits families or groups with luggage and those unfamiliar with local roads.
Booking through trusted taxi services or apps ensures transparent pricing and safer travel. Avoid hailing random cabs at Delhi railway stations or airports to prevent overcharging.
During peak tourist seasons and weekends, it is better to book taxis at least a day in advance to secure availability and better rates.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Jim Corbett, helping you prepare and execute your trip smoothly.
- Step 1:
Decide your mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Train and bus are economical, while car or taxi offers flexibility. Booking tickets online through IRCTC or bus portals saves time and guarantees seats.
- Step 2:
Pack essentials like water, snacks, and a light jacket. Indian roads can have limited food options during travel, and weather near Jim Corbett can be cooler, especially in winters.
- Step 3:
Reach your departure point early. For trains, arrive at least 30 minutes before departure at Anand Vihar or Old Delhi station. For buses, get to ISBT Kashmiri Gate or Anand Vihar bus stand early to avoid last-minute rush.
- Step 4:
On arrival at Ramnagar station or bus stand, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for the last 10 km to Jim Corbett park. Avoid accepting rides from unauthorized drivers to ensure safety.
- Step 5:
Confirm your accommodation and safari bookings in advance, especially during peak seasons. Many resorts offer pickup services from Ramnagar which can simplify your arrival.
- Step 6:
Keep your ID and permits handy as park entry requires valid identification and sometimes permits. Check the latest guidelines on the official Jim Corbett website before traveling.
Practical Travel Tips
Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel.
Book train and bus tickets well in advance through official portals like IRCTC and MSRTC to avoid last-minute unavailability, especially during holidays.
Use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs for last-mile connectivity from Ramnagar to Jim Corbett to avoid scams and overcharging.
Carry light luggage and a small daypack for safaris, as some vehicles have limited storage space and rough roads can cause discomfort with heavy bags.
During monsoon (July to September), expect delays due to road conditions and occasional landslides. Check weather updates and road status before starting your journey.
Keep a printed or digital copy of your hotel and safari bookings, as some local authorities may ask for proof during park entry or travel checkpoints.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to visit Jim Corbett is from November to June when the weather is pleasant and the park is open for safaris. Monsoon season brings heavy rains, making travel difficult and park roads slippery.
Delhi to Jim Corbett route experiences fog in winter mornings, which can delay trains and reduce visibility on highways. Summer months can be hot but are good for wildlife spotting near water bodies.
Avoid traveling during major Indian festivals like Diwali and Holi, as roads and trains are crowded, and fares may surge.
Monsoon rains from July to September can cause roadblocks and slippery conditions, so plan travel accordingly or consider alternative dates.
Early morning departures from Delhi help avoid city traffic and reduce journey time significantly.
Winter fog, especially in December and January, can delay trains and reduce highway visibility, so allow extra travel time during these months.
Arrival at Jim Corbett & What to Expect
On arrival at Ramnagar, you will find a small town with basic facilities including ATMs, eateries, and local markets. The town serves as the gateway to Jim Corbett National Park.
Local transport options include auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and taxis. Most travelers prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for safety and convenience. Many resorts offer pickup services from Ramnagar station or bus stand, which is helpful if you have heavy luggage.
Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts near the park entrance. Staying close to the park helps in early morning safaris and reduces travel time inside the forest area.
Conclusion
Traveling from Delhi to Jim Corbett is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains and buses are economical and widely used, while self-drive and taxis offer greater flexibility and comfort. Planning your trip in advance, especially during peak seasons, ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Remember to book tickets early, carry essential travel documents, and use trusted local transport for last-mile connectivity. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Delhi to Jim Corbett and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of one of India’s premier national parks.