Jim Corbett National Park is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. It is famous for its rich wildlife and beautiful forests, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers from across the country. Delhi, the capital city of India, serves as the main gateway for travelers heading to this popular national park.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a comfortable and affordable option for many visitors. Several trains connect Delhi with nearby stations to Jim Corbett, allowing you to enjoy scenic views along the way.

• The nearest railway stations to Jim Corbett are Ramnagar and Kashipur, both well connected to Delhi via direct trains. Ramnagar is about 12 km from the park entrance.

• Trains from Delhi to Ramnagar take approximately 5 to 6 hours, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class and train type, including express and passenger services.

• Trains run daily from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) and Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI), with multiple departures in the morning and evening to suit various schedules.

• During peak tourist seasons, trains can get crowded, so booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended to secure seats and avoid last-minute hassles.

• Ramnagar station has basic facilities and auto-rickshaws or taxis are available for the 15-20 minute ride to the park entrance, usually costing ₹200 to ₹400.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly and flexible way to reach Jim Corbett from Delhi. Both government and private operators run services on this route.

• Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private buses operate from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Ramnagar, with journey times around 6 to 7 hours depending on traffic.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹250 to ₹500, with options including ordinary, deluxe, and Volvo coaches for varying comfort levels.

• Buses depart frequently throughout the day, but early morning or late evening buses are less crowded and more comfortable for long travel.

• During monsoon season, road conditions on NH9 can be slippery, causing delays; plan extra travel time during July to September.

• Once at Ramnagar bus stand, you can hire local taxis or auto-rickshaws to reach Jim Corbett National Park, which is about 12 km away.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park is a popular choice for those who want flexibility and comfort. The route is well connected by national highways.

• The distance from Delhi to Jim Corbett is approximately 260 km via NH9 and NH309, taking around 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• The route passes through Ghaziabad, Hapur, Moradabad, and Rampur, with several toll plazas charging a total of ₹200 to ₹300 one way.

• There are good rest stops and dhabas along the highway for food and refreshments, including popular stops near Hapur and Moradabad.

• Traffic congestion is common near Delhi and Moradabad, especially during weekends and holidays, so starting early morning is advisable to avoid delays.

• Self-drive vehicles can be rented from Delhi with daily rates ranging from ₹1500 to ₹3000 depending on car type; ensure valid documents and check vehicle condition before departure.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Delhi to Jim Corbett is convenient for travelers who prefer door-to-door service without driving themselves.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available from Delhi, with fares typically between ₹4000 and ₹6000 one way, depending on vehicle type.

• Most taxi drivers are familiar with the route via NH9 and NH309 and can suggest stops for meals or breaks during the 5 to 6-hour journey.

• Booking a taxi in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends, to ensure availability and fixed rates.

• Some tour operators offer package deals including taxi, park entry, and safari bookings, which can simplify travel planning for first-time visitors.

• Ensure the taxi has proper permits for entering Jim Corbett National Park areas, as some zones require special permissions.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park to help you prepare and enjoy a hassle-free journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets online via IRCTC or official bus portals at least 7 days in advance to avoid last-minute unavailability, especially during holidays and weekends.

• If driving or hiring a taxi, check the vehicle condition, fuel level, and route on Google Maps before departure to avoid surprises on the road.

• Start your journey early in the morning, ideally before 7 AM, to avoid Delhi traffic and reach Jim Corbett by afternoon, allowing time for park activities.

• Carry sufficient bottled water and light snacks for the journey, as some highway dhabas may close during off-hours or monsoon season.

• Upon reaching Ramnagar, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to reach your hotel or the park entrance safely and avoid overcharging by local auto-rickshaw drivers.

• Confirm your safari or park entry bookings in advance through the official Jim Corbett website or authorized agents to ensure smooth access to the park.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your personal belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items during travel, as crowded trains and buses can attract pickpockets.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your trip to prevent stomach illnesses, especially when traveling through rural areas near Jim Corbett.

• Book tickets online rather than at stations or bus stands to get confirmed seats and avoid long queues, especially during peak seasons.

• Use local transport apps like Ola or Uber in Ramnagar for safer and more reliable rides compared to haggling with local auto-rickshaw drivers.

• Pack light but include essentials like insect repellent, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for safaris and park visits.

• During monsoon, roads may be slippery and some park zones may close; check weather updates and park notifications before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park is from November to June when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. The park remains closed during the monsoon months of July to October due to heavy rains.

Travel conditions vary with seasons, so planning your trip accordingly can save time and enhance your experience.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi when Delhi roads and transport hubs are crowded, causing delays.

• Winter mornings in Delhi and Uttarakhand can be foggy, reducing visibility on highways, so allow extra travel time from November to January.

• Monsoon rains from July to September can cause roadblocks and slippery conditions on NH9 and nearby routes, making travel risky.

• Departing early morning between 5 AM and 7 AM helps avoid city traffic and reach Jim Corbett National Park comfortably before afternoon heat.

Arrival at Jim Corbett National Park & What to Expect

When you arrive at Jim Corbett National Park, you will typically enter through one of the main gates near Ramnagar. The park is well organized with clear signage and entry points.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and hotel shuttles that can take you to your accommodation or safari starting points. Popular stay areas include Ramnagar town and nearby resorts close to the park gates.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are recommended for safe and fair travel within the area. Avoid unmetered vehicles to prevent overcharging. Most hotels offer pickup services from Ramnagar station or bus stand, which can be arranged in advance.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Jim Corbett National Park from Delhi depends on your budget and comfort preferences. Trains to Ramnagar offer a balance of cost and convenience, while self-drive or taxis provide flexibility and comfort for families or groups. Buses are a good option for budget travelers willing to trade some comfort for savings.

Planning ahead by booking tickets online, starting early, and checking weather conditions will help you avoid common travel issues. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a smooth journey and focus on the natural beauty and wildlife experiences that Jim Corbett National Park offers. You can confidently plan your trip knowing the best routes, transport modes, and local tips for a memorable visit.