A jeep safari will take you through the foothills of Kumaon with ravines and valleys, amidst the thick cover of trees with dappled sunlight and a profound silence broken only by bird calls. Spot water holes and pug marks, trees scratched by male tigers to mark their territory and an astounding variety of mammals, birds and vegetation.
Carry binoculars and look sharp, atop a hill or hidden behind a grove, you might spot barking deer, Stork beak kingfisher, wild elephants, wild boar, serpent eagles, leopards. Corbett also has over 600 species of birds and 110 varieties of trees. While inside, keep in mind that it is not allowed to step out of your jeep. It is also advisable to not wear bright colours and wear perfume, especially if traversing deeper forest areas such as Dhikala.
Although jeeps can penetrate deeper into the jungle, elephants are preferred for a more intimate contact with the wild animals, especially the tiger. There is nothing like surveying the jungle perched on a 10 feet high waddling elephant! Booking for an Elephant Safari can be made with the Forest Department.
With over 600 species of birds, Corbett is a bird watcher's haven. Varieties at Corbett include water fowl, woodpeckers, the Pallas fishing eagle, harries, kites, minivets, the khalij pheasant, the rare chir pheasant, the red jungle fowl, shrikes, cuckoos, drongos and barbets.
Fishing
Fishing and angling is usually allowed at the Ramganga and Kosi rivers outside the Park boundaries. Ramnagar is the major fishing base camp. Your efforts and luck may yield anything from the celebrated Mahseer to a catfish. Most resorts offer fishing trips, although you can directly obtain permit from the Project Tiger office in Ramanagar.
Kaladhungi Museum
34 km from Ramnagar lies Kaladhungi with Jim Corbett's bungalow now turned into a museum with a collection of his rifle cases, hat, fishing net, photographs and letters. These trace his thoughts and ideas, and encapsulate the transition from a headstrong hunter to a determined conservationist. The garden of this house still contains the graves of his two dogs.
Also, do not miss the Corbett Waterfall, rushing down height of 20ft and located just 3 km away.
Garjiya
The Kosi River meanders near Ramnagar. Most of the resorts are located on its banks, providing picturesque views. On the opposite side, high cliffs drop down a 90 degrees fall to the pebble-strewn banks, offering some dramatic scenery. Walk to the Garjiya Devi temple during early morning. While the shrine is nothing to write home about, the walk is beautiful.
Adventure Sports
River rafting
River rafting enthusiasts frequent Corbett during the monsoon when the park is closed but the Kosi River is swelling. Most resorts offer rafting activities, as well as river crossing, rappelling and rock climbing.
Nature Walk
Many resorts offer a nature walk tour through this lush belt abounding with flora. Guided by naturalists, this stroll will let you unveil the secrets of natural herbs and medicinal plants that envelop the forest in plenty. The resources of this land are tapped by the Kumaoni villagers who are well acquainted with the uses of these herbs and plants.
