Birds Around Delhi : Corbett National Park

When you first enter the jungles of the Corbett National Park, it is almost difficult to believe that less than 8 hours before you were in the hustle and bustle of Delhi. The smells and sights of the jungle are a treat for the sore Delhi eyes.

During the jeep or the elephant safari, depending on what mode of transport you choose, you are sure to be on the lookout for the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, but don't forget that the Corbet Park is also famous for its rich avifauna. So keep an eye on the trees - there are many a birds, and the most pretty ones at that. If you are lucky, you may spot the beautiful Long Tailed Broadbill - my favourite amongst the Corbett birds. See picture above, ain't it just lovely?

Weekend Around Delhi | Corbett | Tarangi Resort

In the last post, we discussed the Jim Corbett National Park and its many wonders, not least of which is the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. Just 6 to 7 hours drive from Delhi, Corbett, located near Ramganga in Uttarakhand is an excellent weekend getaway option for Delhiites. I was there a couple of weeks back and stayed at a new but excellent spa resort - it's called TARANGI. It's another fabulous resort developed by the people behind the beautiful Tiger Camp, and is actually right next to the Tiger Camp.

Tarangi is a Hindi (Indian) word meaning 'waves of rejuvenation' and that's an apt name for the place, for sure. Developed on 12.8 acres of riverfront space, it will refresh the most tired of travellers in no time.

The resort offers beautiful accommodation option in the form of cottage suites and rooms. I would highly recommend the river-view cottages, which are located by the River Kosi and offer a great view of the river. In all the hotel has 21 cottages, but during long weekends, Corbett is one of the most preferred holiday destinations around Delhi, so make sure that you place your reservations in advance.

A unique attraction at Tarangi is the Ayurvedic Spa. You can pamper yourself here with a rejuvenating massage. Also available at the spa are a variety of herbal treatments. Fitness and Health concerned can opt for the early morning Yoga sessions by the river.

Amongst the facilities are a swimming pool, overlooking the River Kosi, an Amphitheater - the only one in the region and a Conference Hall for corporate groups. The conference hall can accommodate upto 60 members.

For adventure activities and help on elephant or jeep safaris, you can contact the reception who are only too eager to help. If you have the time, you can also do a specialized bird safari - the Corbett National Park is well-known for its avifauna or you could also spend time fishing. ( River Gamganga is known for its Golden Mahseers, an angler's ultimate prize).

Drawbacks: Lack of Bar/Alchohol, so don't forget to carry your own stuff.

For more details, you can check out the Tarangi Website .

The Jim Corbett National Park

About 200 miles north-east of Delhi lies the "Land of the Trumpet, Roar and Song". The Jim Corbett National Park, with its jungle area spread across 1300 sq. kms. is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, the Asiatic Elephant and the singing Bulbul - and that is just a partial list of its many thousand inmates.

The Corbett National Park established in August 1936 is India's oldest National Park. The then British administration reserved a 324 sq. km area as a 'game reserve' known as the Hailey National Park. After the British left, the new Indian government renamed the park twice in successive years - first as the Ramganga National Park and then as the Jim Corbett National Park, as it is now known. The second and final rechristening was in the honour of the famous hunter turned conservationist, Jim Corbett.