Jim’s Jungle Retreat: A Cosy Cocoon amid Corbett’s Wilderness

Named after a legendary British hunter-turned-conservationist, the Jim Corbett National Park has the distinction of being India’s first national park. With its diverse flora and fauna, misty Himalayan setting, and blue river waters criss-crossing through sparkling grasslands, Jim Corbett is arguably the most breathtaking sanctuary on the Indian map. Encapsulating the character of this mesmerizing natural haven is Jim’s Jungle Retreat—a sprawling wildlife lodge tucked between the Shivalik ranges and the Himalayan foothills, in Ramnagar near Corbett.  

Luxury amidst Verdant Views

The ambience and setting of Jim’s Jungle Retreat recreate a micro safari experience laced with abundance and luxury. The fascinating landscape of this resort is a lush refuge unto itself, offering breathtaking views of the forest and towering mountains ranges, tranquil walks through the wilderness, and countless opportunities to spot exotic species of birds.

This five-star luxury resort spread over 15 acres of forest area houses 18 tastefully-designed eco-sensitive cottages strategically set up in the midst of grasslands, around water bodies and flanked by a decades-old Terai plantation for an immersive jungle experience. The focus here is on privacy for an undisturbed getaway. The resort area is dotted by myriad water bodies dotted with water lilies, lotus and other colourful flora—the perfect destination to spend you mornings chasing butterflies, fishing or just marvelling at nature’s bounties. Since the Jim Corbett National Park is also known for its population of resident and migratory birds, several bird watching avenues have been set up at the retreat. They organise bird-watching walks within as well as outside the resort premises, taking you to some of most ideal locations in all of Corbett for spotting these feathery wonders.

A Feast of Lavish Organic Meals  

Culinary delights of a different kind await you at the Jim’s Jungle Retreat that serves up some sublime delicacies from the Kumaoni cuisine as well as indulgences from the royal kitchen of Rampur on its menu. In keeping with its eco-friendly character, the resort follows a farm-to-table approach where all the food is prepared from freshly sourced organic vegetables and other ingredients grown at the in-house organic farm. You can even take a tour of the farm, pick your own veggies, and learn a thing or two about sustainable organic farming techniques.

The dining locations are just as transcendent as the food itself. Each meal is served at a different location of the lodge. Be prepared for a lot of jaw-dropping surprises, as you indulge in bush dinners in the midst of tall grasses and trees, a candle-light dinner under the star-lit night sky, a meal on the machaan, or lunch at the comfy forest view cafe. In case you are headed to Corbett for celebrating a special occasion, the resort also arranges private dinners upon prior requests.

Resting in the Lap of Wilderness

Uplifting the whole close-to-nature experience are the quintessential luxury elements such as a waterhole-like swimming pool, jungle-inspired spa, private verandahs, open dining spaces, and organic farms. It is these little touches and fine details that make Jim’s Jungle Retreat a truly unforgettable experience.

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The accommodation at Jim’s reflects an unmissable royal legacy and the charm of wandering pastoral tribes. The 18 cottages have been divided into three categories—the Jungle Cottage, Jungle Lodge and Family Cottage, catering to travellers with different needs.

Both the cottages and the bungalow-styled lodges borrow heavily from the architectural heritage of the region, characterised by tapering roofs and spacious wrap-around verandas. The interiors have a wildlife theme, with plates and ancient lithographs on Indian wildlife adorning the walls. The hospitality and service offered at the Retreat remain the highlight of your stay here. The staff is impressively attentive and discreet, so all your needs are taken care of without the discomfort of a stranger hovering around you.

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A massage at the jungle-inspired spa after a long day of safari explorations, photography workshops, exciting safari itineraries—the Jim’s Jungle Retreat offers everything you can expect from a safari lodge and a little more.