Ranthambore versus Corbett National Park: Which one’s the best for you?

Ranthambore versus Corbett National Park? This is a common question that people ask when deciding on which place to pick for their wildlife adventure. Both these national parks are among the most famous wildlife destinations in India and thousands of people visit them every year, in the hopes of sighting some wildlife.

Jim Corbett and Ranthambore National Parks are some of the most preferred destinations for those looking for a weekend getaway in the wild. While both the national parks are beaming with wildlife, they are very different from each other.

In this blog, I will be making a comparison between Jim Corbett national park and Ranthambore national park, which will help you decide as to which one should you choose for your next getaway.

No matter where you decide to go for a safari, know that you’re going to have a hell lot of fun. Just remember that you’re in a sensitive environment and you need to respect the wildlife you’re there to explore. Some unsaid rules when going on a safari are to always wear dark shaded clothes, to keep as silent as possible, and of course, to not litter or dirty the place.

Ranthambore versus Corbett National Park: An Overview

Before making a comparison of the two most prominent national parks in India, let us take a look at some of the essential details. This information will give you more clarity about the two wildlife destinations.

Jim Corbett Versus Ranthambore National Park: Accessibility & Cost

Ranthambore National Park and Corbett National Park are very easily accessible from different parts of the country. The nearest town to Jim Corbett National Park is Ramnagar, which is about 15 km away from the park. The town is well connected by rail and roads.

Sawai Mahopur is the nearest town to Ranthambore National Park, which is about 10 km away. Like Ramnagar, Sawai Madhopur is also well connected via rail and road.

The cost of visiting both these national parks is more or less the same.

So, Ranthambore versus Corbett National Park, which is more accessible and budget-friendly? BOTH.

Corbett and Ranthambore are both highly accessible, reasonable, and abundant in wildlife. It is very important to be fully alert and aware at all points. The reward would be spotting rare, colourful birds like these. In addition to a camera, carry binoculars.

Jim Corbett Versus Ranthambore National Park: Staying Options

Jim Corbett is one of the only national parks In India that allows you to stay inside the national park. The Forest rest houses inside the park allow you to stay inside the forest.

There is no provision for staying inside the Ranthambore National Park. You will have to stay at the hotels outside the park’s boundary.

So, Ranthambore versus Corbett National Park, where can you stay inside the Jungle? Jim Corbett National Park.

Jim Corbett Versus Ranthambore National Park: The True Feel of the Jungle

The forest at Jim Corbett National Park is very dense. It is comprised of evergreen Sal trees. What makes the park even more special is that from marshy swamps to hills, from riverine belts to lakes, every geographical component is present here. More than 70 per cent of the national park is forest, and around 10 per cent is grassland. The breathtaking landscape of Jim Corbett truly gives you the Jungle feel.

Ranthambore forest, on the other hand, is a dry deciduous forest. This means that the forest cover is sparse. A substantial part of the forest is also an open grassy meadow. Apart from this, Ranthambore has several lakes. Therefore, Ranthambore is not the place for travellers who are looking for dense forests, rivers and lush greenery.

So, Ranthambore versus Corbett National Park, which has the true jungle feel? If truly want to get the feeling of being in a Jungle, you should visit Jim Corbett National Park.

This picture has been clicked at Ranthambore. It is important to note that this forest is a dry deciduous one. A substantial part of the forest is also an open grassy meadow. So, if you want the feel of truly being in a jungle, visit Corbett National Park.

Spotting the Tiger: What are the Odds?

Be it Jim Corbett or Ranthambore, the star attraction of these national parks is Bengal Tigers. When it comes to the number, Jim Corbett has a way higher count of Bengal tigers than Ranthambore. There are over 200 tigers at Corbett National Park as against 72 in Ranthambore National Park.

However, the higher number of tigers at Jim Corbett National Park does not guarantee sightings. This is because if you consider the total area, Corbett has a lower density of tigers. Also, the thick forest makes it easier for the Tigers to camouflage.

On the other hand, while the total population of tigers is low in Ranthambore when compared to Corbett, the density is higher. The terrain and scanty forest cover also allow better sighting of wildlife including the big cats. It’s not a surprise that the most widely photographed and documented tigers like Macchli, and Arrowhead have been a part of this national park.

So, Ranthambore versus Corbett National Park, which is better for spotting tigers? In Ranthambore, you have a better chance of sighting wild animals including the tiger.

Both Ranthambore and Jim Corbett are principally visited by people to spot the mighty Bengal Tiger. Tigers are relatively easier to spot at Ranthambore National Park. This is because the tigers’ density is higher here, as compared to Jim Corbett.

Jim Corbett Versus Ranthambore National Park: Wildlife

Ranthambore and Jim Corbett National Park, both have a wide variety of wildlife species. Both these parks are also a delight to bird watchers, as these parks are known for their varied birdlife.

Along with other animals, in Corbett National Park, you will also find herds of wild Elephants walking by in the forests. There are no elephants in Ranthambore National Park.

Also, at Corbett, you could also take elephant safaris, which is not possible in Ranthambore National Park.

So, Ranthambore versus Corbett National Park, which is richer in wildlife? BOTH. However, if you have a particular affinity for wild elephants, you should visit Corbett National Park.

If you have a particular affinity to watch elephants in the wild, do visit Jim Corbett. It’s a truly adorable and heartwarming sight to watch a herd of elephants doing their thing in the open. Always notice how protective the elder ones are about their offspring.

Here’s a quick summary of which national park you should choose based on your preferences:

Based on this information, you can pick your next wildlife adventure based on what you prefer. I would suggest you visit both Ranthambore National Park and Corbett National Park if not together, then one after the other. They are both very prominent and famous parks. Each has something unique to offer and they are a must-visit on wildlife enthusiasts’ Wishlists.

Happy Wayfaring 🙂