Jim Corbett National Park, established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, holds the distinction of being India's first national park and was renamed in honor of the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett. Located in the picturesque Nainital district of Uttarakhand, this magnificent wildlife sanctuary spans over 520 square kilometers of diverse terrain including hills, riverine belts, marshy depressions, and grasslands.

The park is part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve, which includes the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary. It serves as a protected area for the endangered Bengal tiger and is part of India's ambitious Project Tiger initiative. Corbett's unique geographical location at the foothills of the Himalayas creates a perfect habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in the country.

Jim Corbett National Park is divided into five different zones - Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, Dhikala, and Durga Devi - each offering distinct landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. The Ramganga River flows through the park, providing essential water sources for the wildlife and creating beautiful riverine ecosystems. The park's elevation ranges from 400 meters to 1,200 meters above sea level, contributing to its rich ecological diversity.

Beyond its famous tiger population, Corbett is home to over 600 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The park also shelters elephants, leopards, Himalayan black bears, sloth bears, several species of deer including sambar and spotted deer, and the rare fishing cat. The varied vegetation includes sal forests, mixed deciduous trees, and sprawling grasslands that support this incredible wildlife diversity.