A Wild Weekend: College Adventure in Jim Corbett National Park.
The excitement was apparent as our group of sixteen college mates crowded into the large Tempo Traveller early in the morning, eager for a spectacular trip to Jim Corbett National Park. The ride from Delhi to Ramnagar was filled with vibrant conversation, spontaneous singing sessions, and the kind of togetherness that only college trips can provide.
Our weekend base was a quaint Ramnagar homestay nestled in a secluded area of town. The ancient Kumaoni architecture and kind hospitality of our hosts instantly put us at ease. The homestay’s wooden interiors, surrounded by mango orchards, provided us with the ideal balance of comfort and authenticity.
Day one began with an early morning wake-up call; the excitement of our first jungle safari in the Garjiya zone had everyone jumping out of bed without complaint, which is unusual for college students! Our knowledgeable naturalist guide lectured us on the dos and don’ts of the safari, and we were soon zipping along the dusty trails in our open-top Gipsy.
The Garjiya zone exposed its mysteries gradually. A family of spotted deer grazing in the morning mist, a majestic crested serpent eagle perched regally on a sal tree, and langurs’ haunting screams warning of a predator’s proximity—each minute offered new surprises. Though the elusive Bengal tiger remained hidden, we discovered new pug markings that sent shivers down our spines.
After the safari, we returned to our Jim Corbett homestay for a substantial breakfast of aloo paranthas and masala chai. The homestay’s location was ideal for our next activity: a nature walk along the Kosi River. Our guide, a local expert, provided intriguing insights on the region’s ecology and fauna. We learnt how to recognise bird sounds, explored medicinal plants, and even found fresh otter tracks along the riverbed.
The day was spent doing adventurous activities that got our adrenaline pounding. The homestay has scheduled rappelling and rock climbing sessions at local natural formations. Even the most apprehensive of us found strength in the group’s encouragement, overcoming their worries one at a time. The feeling of accomplishment upon reaching the peak was amazing.
As the evening neared, we gathered around a bonfire in the homestay’s courtyard. Our hosts introduced us to traditional Kumaoni cuisine, including bhang ki chutney, mandua ki roti, and the local favourite, bal mithai. Stories flowed readily as we discussed our day’s adventures, interrupted occasionally by the nightjars and crickets that provided nature’s soundtrack.
Day two started with a yoga class on the homestay’s rooftop, which overlooked the foggy Himalayan foothills. Following breakfast, we went on another adventure: a walk to a nearby waterfall. The three-kilometre walk strained our endurance but rewarded us with spectacular views and a cool spray from the flowing water.
Our hosts organised a cultural event for our last evening at the homestay, which made it extra special. Local folk dancers performed the traditional Kumaoni dance, and soon our entire party joined in, seeking to mimic their elegant motions. The night finished with stargazing from the homestay’s terrace, where we identified constellations with the help of our knowledgeable host.
As we loaded our things into the Tempo Traveller the next morning, we all felt grateful for the wilderness experiences, the kind hospitality of our homestay hosts, and the increased relationships of friendship. The ride back to college was quieter, with each of us engrossed in thoughts of the weekend.
This journey taught us more than only about wildlife and adventure; it also taught us the value of unplugging from technology and reconnecting with the natural world. The Ramnagar homestay experience provided us with insight into the native way of life, but the Jim Corbett homestay’s strategic position allowed us to make the most of our time in nature.
For anyone considering a college trip to Jim Corbett, we strongly advise choosing a homestay over a traditional hotel. Personal attention, authentic experiences, and useful local insights make all the difference. Our weekend experience demonstrated that often the finest classroom is outside, and the best lessons come from venturing outside of our comfort zones.
