Corbett
National Park has captured the imagination of many with its diverse wildlife
and breathtaking landscapes. The natural uniqueness of the area was
recognised long ago and so in 1936 Corbett attained the distinction as the
first national park to be established in mainland Asia. Corbett isn't just
about Nature. It is also a rich treasure of history and cultural heritage.
The park has a long tradition of conservation.
The fact that it is
the oldest National Park of the Asia and India's first Tiger Reserve itself
symbolises that Corbett is a pioneer in efforts at preserving our natural
heritage. Corbett National Park lies in two districts - Nainital and Pauri -
in the hill state of Uttaranchal in northern India. It covers an area of 521
sq. km and together with the neighbouring Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary and
Reserve Forest areas, forms the Corbett Tiger Reserve over 1288 sq. km.
Corbett National Park is characteristic of the Himalayan mountain
system. Corbett's northern areas are lined by the Lesser Himalayan chain,
which extends from Pakistan, through Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal,
Uttaranchal, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, and to Arunachal.
The Lesser
Himalayas are quite high, with an average altitude of 1800 m and are made up
of crystalline rocks. The vegetation includes cold-climate tree species like
pine, oak, and rhododendron. The Forest Rest House at Kanda at 1300 m is the
highest point in the Park and is representative of the Lesser Himalayas.