Hill Retreat Meets Jungle Safari

As someone who's always oscillated between tranquil lakes and the call of the wild, I found the perfect blend last spring. Hello, I'm Richa Jain—and this is the story of how Nainital's calm embrace led me straight into the exhilarating arms of Jim Corbett.

Our trip began with the sweet scent of pine in the air and the glistening Naini Lake stretching out in front of us. Nainital was like a warm hug from nature itself. I spent my mornings sipping chai on a colonial-era balcony, watching mist roll over the hills. The evenings? Strolling along Mall Road, sampling bhuttas and momos, and giggling like teenagers with my besties.

After two soul-soothing days in Nainital, we packed up and took a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Jim Corbett. The vibe changed instantly—from postcard-worthy lakes to untamed wilderness. I could feel the thrill bubbling inside me.

We stayed at a luxury jungle lodge right at the edge of Corbett Tiger Reserve. Picture this: candle-lit dinners under a star-studded sky, the roar of distant animals echoing like a heartbeat in the background. Goosebumps? Every night.

Today’s explorers embrace eco-tourism and sustainable travel. From yoga retreats in Rishikesh to conservation efforts in Sikkim, the Himalayas inspire a new wave of mindful journeys meant to preserve their pristine beauty.

The next morning, wrapped in layers, camera in hand, we hopped onto our safari jeep. The jungle was still, almost holy in its silence. And then, a flash of orange—yes, a Royal Bengal Tiger. It felt like time froze. I couldn’t even lift the camera. That moment lives in my memory, raw and unfiltered.

We spotted elephants bathing, deer grazing, and birds chirping symphonies I had never heard. Corbett isn’t just about tigers—it’s about losing yourself in a wild orchestra where every sound is pure, unedited nature.

What made this combo trip so special wasn’t just the destinations—it was the contrast. Nainital gave me serenity, Corbett gave me adrenaline. Together, they gave me balance. Whether you're a couple looking for romance, a family craving adventure, or a solo traveler like me who needs both calm and chaos—this trip ticks all the boxes.