Located at the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Rajaji National Park is a pristine sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, and unique ecosystems. Spanning over 820 square kilometers, the park is named after the renowned freedom fighter C. Rajagopalachari (popularly known as Rajaji). It is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature lovers, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty and wildlife of northern India.
This guide will cover all essential details about Rajaji National Park, including opening hours, ticket fees, attractions, booking procedures, nearby places to visit, and interesting facts.
Overview and History
Rajaji National Park was established in 1983 by merging three wildlife sanctuaries: Chilla, Motichur, and Rajaji. In 2015, it was designated as a tiger reserve, further emphasizing its importance in wildlife conservation. The park is part of the larger Shivalik Elephant Reserve and boasts one of the highest densities of wild elephants in India.
It is also known for its remarkable variety of bird species and serves as a critical corridor for migratory animals between the Corbett National Park and other Himalayan regions.
Flora and Fauna
Flora
The park’s diverse topography includes tropical forests, grasslands, riverine vegetation, and scrublands. Dominant trees include sal, teak, khair, and rohini, while the park’s undergrowth is lush with bamboo, wildflowers, and shrubs.
Fauna
Rajaji National Park is home to a wide array of wildlife, including:
- Mammals: Asian Elephants, Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Wild Boars, Goral (mountain goats), and Indian Langurs.
- Birds: Over 300 bird species, including Great Hornbills, Pied Kingfishers, and Indian Roller.
- Reptiles: Monitor Lizards, Pythons, and King Cobras.
- Aquatic Life: The Ganges River flowing through the park supports fish like Mahseer and Goonch.
Main Attractions
- Jeep Safaris and Wildlife Spotting
The park offers thrilling jeep safaris that take visitors through dense forests, grasslands, and riverbanks. These safaris provide excellent opportunities to spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. - Bird Watching
Rajaji is a paradise for bird watchers, with migratory and resident bird species frequenting the area. The Ganges River is a hotspot for waterfowl and waders. - River Rafting and Nature Walks
The Ganges River allows for exciting river rafting opportunities near the park. Nature trails in the park offer a closer look at its flora and fauna. - Tiger Conservation Area
Explore the tiger reserve zones, where conservation efforts have helped boost the tiger population. - Eco-tourism Villages
Experience the local culture and eco-friendly initiatives in nearby villages that promote sustainable tourism.
Opening Hours and Closed Days
- Opening Hours:
- Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 9:30 AM
- Evening Safari: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Closed Days:
- The park is closed during the monsoon season (mid-June to mid-November) due to heavy rainfall and accessibility challenges.
Note: Entry timings may vary depending on the season, so it is advisable to confirm timings before visiting.
Ticket Fees
- Indian Nationals: ₹150 per person
- Foreign Nationals: ₹600 per person
- Children (5–12 years): ₹75 (Indians) / ₹300 (Foreigners)
- Vehicle Entry Fee: ₹250 for jeeps
- Safari Jeep Hire: ₹2,000–₹3,000 (for a 3-hour safari with a guide)
Note: Camera fees may apply. Still cameras are usually free, but charges for video cameras range from ₹500 to ₹1,500.
Booking Procedure
Offline Booking
Tickets can be purchased at the park’s entry gates, including Chilla, Motichur, Ranipur, and Gohri gates.
Online Booking
- Visit the Uttarakhand Forest Department’s official website or authorized tour operators’ platforms.
- Select your desired safari time and zone.
- Provide identification details (Aadhar card or passport for Indian citizens; passport for foreigners).
- Complete the payment and download your ticket.
Pro Tip: Book in advance during peak seasons (November to February) as slots fill up quickly.
How to Reach
By Air
- The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (35 km from the park).
By Rail
- The nearest railway station is Haridwar Junction, just 18 km from the Chilla gate.
By Road
- Rajaji National Park is well-connected to major cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun via state highways.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Rajaji National Park is between November and April, when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife activity is at its peak. The winter months are perfect for birdwatching as migratory birds flock to the area.
Nearby Attractions
- Haridwar (18 km): Explore the holy ghats and attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti.
- Rishikesh (25 km): Known as the yoga capital of the world, it offers river rafting, temples, and ashrams.
- Dehradun (50 km): A scenic city with attractions like Robber’s Cave and Sahastradhara.
- Chilla Dam: A picturesque spot near the park, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Important Facts
- Tiger Reserve: Rajaji National Park is one of India’s prominent tiger reserves, making it a key part of Project Tiger.
- Elephant Corridor: The park serves as an essential corridor for the movement of Asian Elephants between forests.
- Eco-friendly Initiatives: Local communities participate actively in eco-tourism, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
- No Plastic Zone: Visitors are prohibited from carrying plastic into the park to maintain its pristine environment.
Rajaji National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering something for every nature lover. Whether you are looking to witness majestic elephants, spot a tiger in the wild, or simply enjoy the serenity of the Himalayan foothills, this park is an ideal destination. Its proximity to popular tourist hubs like Haridwar and Rishikesh adds to its appeal.
Plan your visit today to experience the enchanting wilderness of Rajaji National Park!