Rajaji national park

Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park is located in Dehradun in Uttarakhand. It retained the status of a natural park in the year 1983. The total area of the park is 820 km². It is one of the largest national parks in the country.

It is also a tiger reserve and owing to this very reason, it becomes easier for you to explore Tigers which is an endangered species. We are also able to explore 50 different species of elephants. It is one of the very few national parks in the country which consists of so many species of animals. The Ganges River also flows through the national park for about 24 km. Owing to this very reason, it is pretty diverse and rich in heritage. Since it is not impacted by any kind of commercialization, the flora and fauna are completely pristine and you would be able to view the animals in their natural habitat quite easily. Some of the animals which you can easily explore in the national park are:

  • Tiger
  • Elephant
  • Hog deer
  • Himalayan Bear
  • Barking deer
  • Jackal
  • Hyena
  • Jungle cat

You can also view some of the lesser-known birds like:

  • Scaly Thrush
  • Flycatcher
  • Tree creeper
  • Reed bunting
  • Green Avadavat

Best Things To Do At Rajaji National Park

Wildlife safari:

Experience the rich biodiversity of the park on an elephant or jeep safari. Visitors can take an elephant safari through the jungle, which allows them to get close to the animals and observe them in their natural habitat. Jeep safaris are also available, which allows visitors to cover a larger area of the park and explore different regions.

Bird watching:

The park is home to over 315 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Some of the birds that can be spotted here include the Great Hornbill, the Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, and the Black Stork. Visitors can hire a guide who can help them spot and identify different species of birds.

Trekking:

Take a hike through the park’s diverse landscape, including the Shivalik range of the Himalayas. Visitors can take guided treks through the park, which allow them to explore the different regions of the park and see the wildlife and vegetation up close.

Rafting:

Explore the park’s rivers, such as the Ganges, Haridwar, and Yamuna, on a rafting adventure. Visitors can take guided rafting trips down the rivers, which allow them to see the park’s wildlife and landscapes from a different perspective.

Camping:

Pitch a tent and spend a night in the wilderness, surrounded by the sounds of the forest. Visitors can camp in designated areas of the park, and they can also hire a guide who can take them on a guided camping trip through the park.

Fishing:

Try your hand at fishing in the park’s rivers and streams. Visitors can catch fish such as Mahaseer, Catla, and Rohu in the park’s rivers.

Visit the temples:

Rajaji National Park is also home to several ancient temples that are worth visiting. Some of the temples that are worth visiting include the Rajaji Temple, the Chilla Temple, and the Raghunath Temple.

Nature photography:

Capture the beauty of the park’s flora and fauna through your lens. Visitors can take guided photography tours of the park, which allow them to take photographs of the park’s wildlife and landscapes.

Visit Chilla Range:

Chilla Range is known for its beautiful landscapes and is a popular spot for visitors. Visitors can take guided tours of the Chilla Range, which allow them to explore the different regions of the park and see the wildlife and vegetation up close.

Visit the Rajaji Museum:

The park has a museum that displays the history of the park and the wildlife found here. Visitors can learn about the park’s history and the different species of animals and plants that can be found here.

Jungle Safari Zones Details

Rajaji National Park has several designated jungle safari zones, each with its own unique features and attractions. Here are some details about a few of the popular safari zones:

  1. Chilla Range: This range is located on the banks of the Ganges river and is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife. Visitors can spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species in this range.
  2. Motichur Range: This range is located on the banks of the Haridwar river and is known for its rich biodiversity. Visitors can spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species in this range.
  3. Rajaji Range: This range is located on the banks of the Yamuna river and is known for its rich biodiversity. Visitors can spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species in this range.
  4. Laldhang Range: This range is located in the western part of the park and is known for its rich biodiversity. Visitors can spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species in this range.
  5. Dhaulkhand Range: This range is located in the southern part of the park and is known for its rich biodiversity. Visitors can spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species in this range.

It is important to note that the availability of Jungle safari zones may change depending on the current situation and the rules of the park authorities.

Nearby attractions

Rajaji National Park is located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. There are several nearby attractions that visitors can explore while visiting the park. Here are a few popular nearby attractions:

  1. Haridwar: Haridwar is a religious city located approximately 20 km from Rajaji National Park. It is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism and is known for its temples, ashrams, and the famous Ganges river. Visitors can take a dip in the Ganges, attend the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony and visit the temples in Haridwar.
  2. Rishikesh: Rishikesh is a city located approximately 25 km from Rajaji National Park and is known as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” It is also considered one of the holiest places in Hinduism. Visitors can visit the many temples and ashrams in Rishikesh, go for river rafting, bungee jumping and other adventure sports, and also try delicious street food.
  3. Dehradun: Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand and is located approximately 50 km from Rajaji National Park. It is known for its colonial architecture, temples, and the famous Robber’s Cave. Visitors can visit the famous Tapkeshwar Temple, the Forest Research Institute, and the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology.
  4. Mussoorie: Mussoorie is a hill station located approximately 70 km from Rajaji National Park and is known for its beautiful views and colonial architecture. Visitors can take a cable car ride to Gun Hill, visit Kempty Falls, and also explore Mall Road.
  5. Lansdowne: Lansdowne is a hill station located approximately 150 km from Rajaji National Park and is known for its beautiful views and colonial architecture. Visitors can visit the Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple and the St. Mary’s Church and take a stroll on Mall Road.

It is important to note that the availability of these nearby attractions may change depending on the current situation and the rules of the government authorities.

Safari timings

The safari timings for Rajaji National Park vary depending on the season and the specific safari zone.

  1. Summer Season (April – June): The park is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
  2. Monsoon Season (July – September): The park remains closed during this season.
  3. Winter Season (October – March): The park is open from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm.

It is important to note that the timings may change depending on the current situation and the rules of the park authorities. It’s best to check with the park authorities or the tour operator before planning a visit to the park.

It’s also worth noting that the safari timings within the park may vary depending on the zone and the vehicle. Visitors are advised to check with the park authorities for detailed information on safari timings for the zone they plan to visit.

Ticket price and entry time

The ticket prices and entry times for Rajaji National Park vary depending on the season and the type of safari.

  1. Summer Season (April – June):
  • Indian visitors: INR 20 (per person)
  • Foreign visitors: INR 250 (per person)
  • Entry time: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
  1. Monsoon Season (July – September): The park remains closed during this season.
  2. Winter Season (October – March):
  • Indian visitors: INR 20 (per person)
  • Foreign visitors: INR 250 (per person)
  • Entry time: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm

It’s important to note that these prices and timings may change depending on the current situation and the rules of the park authorities. It’s best to check with the park authorities or the tour operator before planning a visit to the park.

Additionally, the ticket prices for safari vehicles may vary depending on the type of vehicle, the number of passengers, and the zone. Visitors are advised to check with the park authorities for detailed information on the safari ticket prices for the zone they plan to visit.

How to reach

Rajaji National Park is located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India and can be reached by various means of transportation. Here are a few options to reach the park:

  1. By Air: The nearest airport to Rajaji National Park is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 50 km from the park. From there, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.
  2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Rajaji National Park is Haridwar Railway Station, which is approximately 20 km from the park. From there, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.
  3. By Bus: Rajaji National Park is well-connected by road, and there are several buses that operate between the park and nearby cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. Visitors can also hire a taxi to reach the park.

It’s worth noting that the availability of these transportation options may change depending on the current situation and the rules of the government authorities. Visitors are advised to check with the park authorities or the tour operator before planning a visit to the park.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Rajaji National Park depends on the type of activities and wildlife sightings you are interested in experiencing. Here’s a general overview of the park’s seasons and what you can expect during your visit:

  1. Summer Season (April – June): The park is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. During this time, the park is lush and green and is a great time for birdwatching. Some of the animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and bears can also be spotted in the park.
  2. Monsoon Season (July – September): The park remains closed during this season.
  3. Winter Season (October – March): The park is open from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm. During this time, the weather is mild and the park is a great place to spot tigers, elephants, and leopards.

It’s worth noting that the park is closed during the monsoon season, so the best time to visit would be during the summer or winter season. However, the availability of activities and wildlife sightings may vary depending on the current situation and the rules of the park authorities. Visitors are advised to check with the park authorities or the tour operator before planning a visit to the park.

Best Places To Stay

Rajaji National Park offers a range of accommodation options for visitors. Here are a few options for places to stay near the park:

  1. Forest Rest Houses: The park authorities run a number of Forest Rest Houses within the park that offer basic amenities and are ideal for those looking for a budget-friendly option.
  2. Eco-Friendly Cottages: There are several eco-friendly cottages located near the park that offer comfortable accommodations and are ideal for families and groups of friends.
  3. Luxury Resorts: For visitors looking for a more luxurious experience, there are a number of high-end resorts located near the park that offer comfortable rooms, fine dining, and a range of recreational activities.
  4. Campsites: For visitors looking for a unique experience, there are several campsites located near the park where visitors can pitch their own tent or stay in a pre-erected tent.

It’s worth noting that the availability of accommodation options may change depending on the current situation and the rules of the park authorities. Visitors are advised to check with the park authorities or the tour operator before planning a visit to the park.

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