History of Jim Corbett

Jim Corbett National Park holds the distinction of being the first national park in India. Established in 1936, it was originally named Hailey National Park after Sir Malcolm Hailey, the then Governor of the United Provinces. The park was later renamed as Ramganga National Park in the 1950s, referencing the major river flowing through the region.

In 1957, it was finally renamed after the legendary Jim Corbett, a British hunter-turned-conservationist and author, who played a key role in the establishment of the park. Jim Corbett was known for his efforts to protect the Bengal tiger and other wildlife species, and his famous book “Man-Eaters of Kumaon” documented his experiences in the region.

Located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, the park spans across the Siwalik foothills of the Himalayas and is rich in flora and fauna. It became the launch site for Project Tiger in 1973, a nationwide initiative to protect tigers from extinction in India.

Over time, the park expanded with the inclusion of new areas and a buffer zone in 1991, increasing its overall size and biodiversity. Today, Jim Corbett National Park is not just a wildlife sanctuary — it is a symbol of India’s conservation legacy and attracts thousands of eco-tourists, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts every year.

With its mix of dense sal forests, grasslands, rivers, and hills, Corbett continues to be a safe haven for endangered species like the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, leopard, gharial, and over 600 species of birds. Its historical significance, biodiversity, and scenic beauty make it one of the most treasured ecological assets of India.