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Corbett National Park

One of the finest habitats of the tiger in India, the Corbett National Park nestles in the
foothills of the Himalayas in Uttaranchal, in the area known as South Patlidun. With it's
varied topography, diverse flora and fauna and the natural splendor of its landscapes,
the Park is a precious heritage.
Established in 1936, this reserve was known as the Hailey National Park. It was later
renamed after Jim Corbett the famous hunter, author and pioneer conservationist who
helped set up this wildlife sanctuary. At present, this national park encompasses an area
of about 520 sq. Kms whish includes, the vast reservoir formed by the Kalagarh dam
across the river Ramganga. It is one of the best-managed protected areas in the country
and attracts thousand of visitors each year. This area is also a tiger reserve under the
Project Tiger.
The Park is a large valley with forested ridges running through it. The
magnificent Ramganga River winds through its entire length in a south -
southwesterly direction and numerous forest streams and rivulets that
flow into it carve up the area into little ridges and ravines. Dense stands
of sal and mixed deciduous forests are found throughout the Park while
the 'chaurs' or the grasslands in the valleys - about one -tenth of the core area, offer
visitors a better view of wildlife.
With elevations in the Park ranging from 400m to 1210m there is a rich
diversity in habitat. Animals of the Himalayas and those of peninsular
India can both be seen here and over 50 mammal and 25 reptile species
have been recorded at Corbett. Among the predators are the tiger,
leopard, diverse species of lesser cats and the dholes - the wild dog.
There are antelopes (nilgai and ghoral) varieties of deer (hog deer, sambhar, chital or
spotted deer and barking deer), the primates (rhesus and langur) and other animals like
jackals, foxes, civets, wild boar, sloth bear, black bear and a range of reptiles including
the cobra, python and two species of crocodile.
The rare fish eating, long shouted gharial and the more robust
mugger can be seen basking along the sand banks and pools of the
Ramganga. The river, which is also noted for its sporting fish, the
mighty mahaseer and the malee, is popular with anglers.
Corbett is the home of 580 species of birds including water fowl, 17
types of woodpecker, raptors like the Pallas fishing eagle, harriers and kites, peafowl,
kali pheasant, the rare chirr pheasant, red jungle fowl, minuets, shrikes, cuckoos,
drogues and barbets. A fine reservoir on the river formed with the building of a dam at
Kalagarh now attracts diverse species of water birds - both local and migratory. With its
avian variety Corbett is a marvelous location for bird watchers also.
With the Project Tiger launched in 1973, for the total environmental
protection of this endangered species, Corbett has seen an increase in
the tiger population. This nocturnal predator is not often spotted during
the day though its pugmarks are commonly seen along the roadsides
and forest trails. With a bit of luck, visitors do occasionally catch a
glimpse of this majestic animal as they drive through the park to the Dhikala complex.
Dhikala at the heart of the core area is picturesquely located at the edge of a grassy
plateau perched high above the Ramganga reservoir and set into a bend in the river.
The grasslands of the Dhikala Chaur disappear into the dense sal forests of the foothills.
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This is a favorite viewing area. The chaur and surrounding forests

support the highest density of tigers in the country - about one every 5
sq. Km. Splendid herds of Chital, hog deer and elephants are also to
be seen here. There are viewing towers as well as elephant rides for
visitors - morning and evening. This is perhaps the best way to see
wildlife for it is possible to go deep into the park on elephants, to get close to the animals
in an unobtrusive manner and to get a clear view of them.
Being the center of tourist activity, a range of accommodation is available at Dhikala,
including 3 room cabins (with coolers or air conditioners on request, and attached
baths), forest rest houses, three bedded huts, Swiss cottage tents and log hut
dormitories. Restaurants, a library, a field post office, first aid center, an open-air theatre
and a provision store are some of the other facilities available for visitors.
Corbett also offers a number of forest rest houses located in
picturesque spots around the park, isolated, ideal for wildlife
enthusiasts, photographers, anglers, bird watchers - who wish to enjoy
and feel the jungle. Just 9 km. from Ramnagar - where the Park
headquarters is located is the fine 6-room rest house at Bijrani. A big
chaur close by, where the deer collect at night, is ideal for watching the animals and
elephant rides are available for visitors.
Along the route to Dhikala and soon after the entrance gate at Dhangarhi is another
charming two-room rest house at Sultan.
Set along the road in a little flat where the deer come to feed, it is
surrounded by low wooded hills. Still further along the road, a little
forest track takes off to the beautifully located 6-room rest house at
Gairal - set on a high bank above the Ramganga River. Tigers have
often been spotted drinking in the river close to the rest house. Downstream are pretty
pools where the magar and gharial can be seen. Sarpduli Rest House further into the
Park has some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing - located as it is on the banks
of the river with a jungle lose by. All these little spots provide just basic facilities.
Provisions have to be carried - though often the local caretakers cook for visitors.
Binsar Sanctuary
The Binsar wild life sanctuary encompasses an area of about 50 sq. Kms in the middle
Himalayan near Almora. This tract is considered to be one of the most beautiful tracts in
kumaon.
Geomorphology: The slopes vary from step to very step. The terrain
has been shaped by the action of running water.
Climate: The climatic conditions prevailing in the Binsar sanctuary range
from temperate to sub-
Arctic. Winters are very cold and Heavy snowfall is received.
Flora: The main forests types found in this sanctuary are listed below:
Oak and moist mixed deciduous forests.
Temperate moist coniferous forests including deodar and blue pine.
3. Sub-alpine birch, fir and spruce forests.
Sub-alpine pasture and scrub.
Fauna: This sanctuary is the home of many high altitude species of
animals and birds which includes the leopard, civet cat, serow, gharial, musk deer,
brown bear and khaliji Pheasant
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Ascot Musk Deer Sanctuary

This is a 284 sq. km sanctuary located in Pithoagarh district of the Himalayan of
kumaon. This sanctuary has been set up primarily with the object of
conserving the musk deer and its habitat.
Geomorphology: The upper tracts have been shaped by the action of
glaciers while running water has carved the terrain of the lower reaches.
The prominent geomorphic features of this sanctuary include glacial
amphitheatres, ridges, spurs, V-shaped valleys and river cut and river
built terraces.
Climate: The climatic conditions vary from temperate to arctic. Summers are mild in this
tract. However, winters are very severe and a thick layer of snow covers the ground for
serve weeks at a stretch during the cold season.
Flora: The main forest types found in this sanctuary are listed below:
1. Ban and Moru oak forests
2. Moist deodar forest
3. Temperate mixed coniferous forest
4. Temperate mixed deciduous forest
5. Kharsu oak forest
6. Fir and spruce forest
7. Blue pine forest
8. Dry temperate mixed forest
9. Dry deobar forest
10. Sub-alpine birch fir forest
11. Birch-rhododendron scrub forest
12. Moist alpine scrub forest
13. Dry alpine scrub forest
Fauna: The Ascot sanctuary is the home of the musk deer. Intensive efforts
have been initiated to conserve this elusive species. Other mammals found
in this sanctuary include the leopard, jungle cat, civet cat, barking deer,
serow, ghoral and brown bear. Many species of high altitude birds are also
found in this sanctuary.

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ADVENTURE TOUIRSM IN KUMAON
White Water Rafting: the Rivers of Kumaon, Uttaranchal are inviting enough for
both the amateur as well as the die-hard professional. One can opt for canoeing,
kayaking or rafting, depending upon the nature of the water. Pit your will and skill against
nature as you negotiate the rapids, maneuver the bends, speed along gorges and break
into sparkling surf. After all, water sports are for those adventure seekers for whom land
is not enough.
The challenge of the turbulent rivers is no less than that of the rugged
mountains. The icy heights of the Himalayas are the source of some
of India’s mighty rivers. Fed by innumerable streams they race along
tortuous boulder strewn beds, cutting deep gorges and breaking into
silvery white rapids. With the intricate network of Mountains Rivers flowing through a
myriad of different colours of rocky gorges, forests, flowers and high mountain villages,
the Kumaon hills provide ideal locales for the perfect water adventure.
The sport of white water rafting calls for a triumph over the swift swirling river as it
gushes past spectacular mountains. It is practiced mainly in the upper reaches where
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the water is wild and white as it fortes & foams, crashing against narrow gorges, rocky
outcrops and falls at deep gradients.
The degree of difficulty would depend on the river gradient and its
rapids. The suitable period for river running depends on the adequacy
of water volume. Thus. September-November and March-April-May
are most appropriate. The equipment required is ordinary outdoor
gear, goggles, antiseptic cream and a liking for getting wet!
TREKKING: "To see the greatness of a mountain, one must keep
one's distance; to understand its form, one must move around it; to
experience its moods, one must see it at sunrise and sunset, at noon
and at mid-night, in sun and in rain in all other season, He who can see
the mountain like this, comes near to the life of the mountain a life that is as intense and
varied as that of a human being."
(Lama Anagrika Govinda)
Mt. Adi-Kailash - popularly known as Chhota-Kailash, is in Indian
Territory, close to the Indian Tibetan border. It is an area of great natural
beauty, peace and sovereignty. Men and women, tired by the incessant
roar of urban life, will find here a healing quietude conducive to liking
inward and discouraging with one's inner self.
During Adi-Kailash Yatra, you will come across the mighty splendor of
the snow peaks of Annapurna, the gushing Kali river, thick Forest,
Narayan Ashram full of wild flowers and rare variation of fruits and
number of water falls.
At the very foot of Mt. Kailash is Gauri Kund, whose water reflects the mountain itself.
The local folk, called Bhotias, have much to say about there land. The village Kutti is
named after Kunti, the mother of Pandavas. The great saga vyas lived here for a long
time and wrote many books. The bhotias have preserved their heritage assiduously and
are always ready to show glimpses to it through their dance and
music.
SKIING: Vast tracts of virgin snow. The region also provides
immense opportunities for adventure sports like skiing and the
thrilling water sports which make Kumaon an ideal venue for
adventure seekers.
The large slopes of Kumaon covered with seasonal snow become an ideal place for
skiing in the winter months. One can feel the adrenaline levels rising as one negotiates
the challenges of the step gradients and traverses unimaginable distances. Quite truly,
the thrill of skiing remains unparalleled. As the elements are defeated exhilaration swells
up. In skiing, the use of only the simplest forms of implements adds to the adventure.
With their wide open spaces above the snowline, Kumaon offer yet another exciting
possibility — sky touring amongst the glaciers.
For the avid skier, cross country runs of 10-20 kms are now available, with the added
advantage of fresh powder snow, away from criss-crossing streams of skiers that
overtake the slopes of the European Alps. Because of their height and spread, Kumaon,
like other sectors of the Himalayas, are in a position to offer the thrills of exploratory long
distance skiing round the year..
The easternmost hill district of Uttranchal bordering Nepal in the east and Tibet in the
north, Pithoragarh is often called ‘Miniature Kashmir’. Nestling amidst spectacular
Kumaon Himalayas at a height of 1645 mts is a small valley barely 5 kms. long and 2
kms. wide. The town was an important landmark of the Chand Kings of Kumaon. The
ancient trade route to eastern Nepal passed through this area. Pithoragarh and its
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environs are known for their abundant natural beauty and fine temples that are important
points of pilgrimages.
Locaed at an altitude of 2135 mts., Munsyari is situated at a distance of 66 kms. and
from Jauljibi and 127 kms. from Pithoragarh via Thal. Munsyari is the center as well as
the gateway of the Johar Region. Munsyari is the base for treks to Milam, Namik and
Ralam Glaciers. There is a tourist Rest House and a small town. Khalia top and
Betulidhar are two high altitude places, ideal for skiing.
PARAGLIDING: Tandem flights are the easiest and safest way to experience the
thrill of soaring. Unlike learning to fly solo, Tandem flights require only
a 20 minute briefing before you are in the air for the first time! A
Paraglider is a ram air craft. It is foot launched like a hang glider but is
controlled with the use of risers much like a parachute. As with
tandem paragliding it is now possible for a person with no previous
experience to take a high altitude paragliding flight beside a qualified instructor after only
5 minutes of instruction. This is done using a special two person paraglider.
An introductory tandem flight lets you fly the mountains right away without having to
spend several days preparing at the training hill. Most flights end in smooth landings.
The temperature at altitude may be quite cold even though the surface temperature is
warm. Your instructor can brief you on the expected temperature at altitude. The
following clothing is recommended in the event of a possible landing in the brush.
· Sturdy footwear, preferably boots
· Sturdy pants, e.g. jeans
· Warm clothing layers
· Warm gloves
You may bring a compact camera if you wish. A helmet and flight suit is
provided by the authorities.

Tandem Paragliding has been started in Kumaon at Naukuchiyatal, 24

Km from Nainital by KMVN (Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd.) in collaboration with
Snowland Holidays, Manali. During this flight one can enjoy beauty of Naukuchiyatal and
mountain along the area and can have the feeling of gliding like a kite. It doesn’t matter
whether the person flying is a child of 8 years or an old man of 60 years because you fly
with the expert pilots. The paragliders are being flown by the pilots with a wide
experience of flying in Himanchal, Gujrat & Darjeeling..
The Package
Adults - Rs. 950/- per person per flight
Children - Rs. 700/- per child per flight
Flight Time - 3 min. to 10 min. (depending on the wind factor)
Off Season Package
· Two night and three days stay at Nainital, Bhimtal or Naukuchiyatal
· Tourist Resort
· Paragliding at Naukuchiyatal
· Boating in Bhimtal
Ropeway Ride
Tariffs
Single Person 1444/-
Couple 2444/-
Family 4444/-
Group 5444/-
Youth/ Students 9444/-
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Mountaineering: In the whole of Uttrakhand there are about 200 peaks more than
6000m high. Most of them are still unnamed and ahve not been climbed so far. The
highest peak in the region is Nanda Devi (7800m, East peak 7450m). In Kumaon which
lies in the eastern part of Uttrakhand, mountaineering can be done in the region from
where the rivers Pindar, Gori, Dhauli E. and Kuti emerge. The peaks and passes near
the glaciers of these rivers have been calling the mountaineers from time immemorial.
Major peaks of Kumaon
Tharkot (6100m)
Maiktoli (6800m)
Nanda Khat (6600m)
Sunder Dhunga (6650m)
Chhanguj (6300m)
Pawali Dwar (6650m)
Baljori (5900m)
Kuchila (6300m)
Nanda Kot (6900m)
Nandakhani (6000m)
Nanda Manas (6200m)
Nandapal (5800m)
Panchculi Range (I-6350m, II-6900m, III-6300m, IV-6300m and V-6400m)
Rajrambha (6500m)
Chotta Kailash (6200m)
Mrigthuni (6850m)
Herdeval (7150m)
Trishuli (7050m)
These mountaineering region extends from the north-eastern wall of Nanda Devi
sanctuary of the Api-Nampa range of western Nepal. The last high Himalayan points for
trekking are very close to base camps of mountaineering expeditions. Sukhram and
Kathaliya in the Sunder Dhunga region, near Zero-point in the Pindari region, Martoli in
the Nanda Kot region; Martoli, Lwa or Panchhugwar for the Nanda Devi East peak,
Nitwalthaur (Milam) for Hardewal, Athasi-Balati or Meola glacier (near Dantu) for
Panchculi, Ralam village for Rajrambha and Jonglingkang for Chotta Kailash are the
major base camps of mountaineering in Kumaon.
For further information about mountaineering contact the Indian Mountaineering
Foundation, New Delhi; Nehru Institute of mountaineering, Uttarkashi and the Nainital
Mountaineering Club, Nainital, as well as other mountaineers. At Nainital, the
experienced and famous mountaineer, Colonel J.C.Joshi, Honorary Secretary, Nainital
Mountaineering Club, CRST College Building can be contacted for further information
and guidance.
Water Skiing: In district Udhamsingh Nagar of U.P. Hills is a place known as
Nanaksagar. The total area of the reservoir is approximately 18 sq. mtr. A 30 bedded
Tourist Rest House is available at Nanaksagar for accommodation. The place is suitable
for water sports activities. The various activities for water sports which can be organized
in this reservoir are Water skiing, yatching, Boating, Canoing, Kyaking, Wet parasailing
etc. The large size of the reservoir is thus suitable for water sports activities throughout
the year, particularly in the winter months. The place being nearer to the Nainital,
Almora, Pithoragarh etc. attract large number of water sports loving tourists also.
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Accessibility
Rail : Nearest Railhead 15 kms. away from Khatima.
Distance from Nainital : 119 kms.
Airport : Nearest air strip is Pantnagar. (62 kms)
Season : Round the year (except monsoon)
Accomodation : 30 bedded Tourist Rest House available, run by Kumaon Mandal Vikas
Nigam Ltd.
Kayaking & Canoeing: Go canoeing, kayaking or rafting in the wild rivers of
Kumaon. Pit your will and skill against nature as you race the rapids, manoeuvre the
bends, speed along gorges and break into sparkling surf. The upper reaches of rivers
like the Saryu and Kali Ganga have foaming white-waters that are ideal for river running.
Inflatable rafts, Kayaks and canoes can all be used in different stretches of the rivers of
Uttaranchal.
In Kumaon, the Kali ganga (Sharda) flows down from the Nepal border through Kumaon
hills. The Kali and Gori rivers meet at Jauljivi where the water volume increases offering
adventure to professionals. For over 110 kms., from Jauljivi to Tanakpur its rapids are
Grade IV and more. Lower down among the forested slope the river becomes calmer,
offering the amateur a sporting challenge before flowing out into the plains of
Uttaranchal.