Crocodile View Point – Corbett National Park

Crocodile View Point is a unique wildlife viewpoint inside Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand. As the name suggests, it is one of the best places to spot crocodiles and gharials basking on the riverbanks of the Ramganga River. The site offers a blend of wildlife watching, river views, and Himalayan forest landscapes, making it a favorite stop for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

📍 Location

Situated inside Jim Corbett National Park, near Dhikala Zone.
Built on the banks of the Ramganga Reservoir.
Around 25 km from Dhangarhi Gate (main entrance to Dhikala).

🌟 Highlights of Crocodile View Point

🐊 Crocodile & Gharial Watching – Spotting marsh crocodiles and endangered gharials on the sandy banks.
🦅 Birdwatching – Home to migratory and resident birds like kingfishers, herons, ospreys, and storks.
🌊 Scenic Ramganga River Views – Crystal-clear river meandering through dense sal forests.
🐘 Wildlife Encounters – Elephants, spotted deer, sambars, and even tigers may be seen near the river.
📸 Photography Spot – Popular among photographers for sunrise and sunset shots.

🏞 What to Expect

Built as a machan-style watchtower overlooking the Ramganga river.
Visitors can climb up the viewpoint and safely observe crocodiles from above.
During winter, large groups of crocodiles bask in the sun on the sandbanks.
In summer, sightings increase as animals come to the river to drink.

🎯 Best Time to Visit

November – June: Safari zones are open, best for crocodile sightings.
Winter (Nov–Feb): Pleasant weather, great for birdwatching.
Summer (Mar–Jun): Increased chances of spotting wildlife near water sources.
Monsoon (Jul–Oct): Park remains closed due to heavy rains.

🚙 How to Reach Crocodile View Point

By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar (110 km).
By Train: Ramnagar Railway Station (50 km) is the closest railhead.
By Road: Well connected to Delhi (250 km), Nainital (60 km), and Ranikhet (80 km).
Inside Corbett: Accessible only via authorized jungle safari (jeep or canter) in Dhikala Zone.

📝 Travel Tips

🎟 Entry only with a valid Corbett safari permit.
🕐 Morning and evening safari slots available.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes and carry binoculars & camera.
🚫 Do not feed or disturb wildlife.
📸 Early morning is the best time for crocodile photography.

🌿 Nearby Attractions

Dhikala Forest Lodge – Famous for tiger & elephant sightings.
Sultan Watchtower – Great for panoramic views.
Ramganga Reservoir – Spot aquatic birds and wildlife.
Grasslands of Dhikala – Known for predator-prey action.

✅ Crocodile View Point is a must-visit spot inside Corbett National Park if you want to witness the raw charm of the wild. From basking crocodiles to stunning river views, it gives travelers a perfect mix of wildlife adventure and natural serenity.