Route: Delhi - Corbett - Nainital - Delhi
Places covered: Jim Corbett National Park, Ramnagar, Nainital, Naini Lake, Bhimtal
This is a straightforward group trip with a good mix of wildlife and hill-station time. It starts in Delhi and uses only two bases, Corbett and Nainital, so the drives are manageable. It is also suitable for small family groups.
Who it suits
Groups of six to sixteen friends, cousins or colleagues who want a short getaway. It works best from mid-November to June, when Corbett's main zones are open. In the monsoon, Corbett's core zones are closed and roads are risky, so we do not recommend it.
How the days flow
On day one, you drive from Delhi to Corbett, about five to six hours, and settle into a resort. Day two is for two safaris and a relaxed afternoon by the pool or river. On day three, you drive to Nainital, about two to three hours, and enjoy an evening on the Mall. Day four is for Naini Lake, Snow View Point and Bhimtal. Day five is the drive back to Delhi.
Group notes
- Vehicles. A tempo traveller or several cars, sized to the group, with a driver experienced in hill roads.
- Safari bookings. Corbett zones and slots are limited. We book as soon as dates are confirmed. Sightings are never guaranteed.
- Rooms. Twin, triple and quad rooms where possible, with the group kept together.
- Evenings. Quiet, with dinners at the resort or at restaurants in Nainital. Alcohol rules vary, and please do not drink before safaris or boating.
- Rules. Respect the forest department's rules and keep noise low.
Tips for group leaders
Appoint one person to coordinate with us. Confirm names and IDs as on documents, especially for the safari permits. Brief everyone on forest etiquette. Keep a buffer for weather and traffic.
A note on weekends
Nainital is especially crowded on Saturdays and Sundays. If your group can travel midweek, you will have more space, shorter queues and lower rates.
What makes this a good group trip
The two halves feel very different. Corbett is about early mornings, quiet and looking out for movement in the grass. Nainital is about evenings, lights on the water and a walk with friends. Because the bases are only two to three hours apart, nobody spends the trip in the car, and the group has time to talk, play cards or just rest. We also share the cost of the vehicle, which makes it good value for six or more.
Weather and backup plans
Rain can pause safaris, and fog can slow the roads in winter. If the weather turns, we swap activities or add time at a resort, rather than force the schedule.
Customising
Add a night in Bhimtal, include Kainchi Dham, add a third safari or extend to Mussoorie. Share your group size and dates and we will price it.
