Overview

One of the most beautiful reserves to the east of Haridwar, Rajaji National Park locates in Pauri Garhwal, Dehradun and Haridwar districts of Uttarakhand. Spread over 820.42 sq. km. of area, the park embraces the Shivaliks, in the vicinity of Himalayan foothills. It’s a haven for the nature and adventure lovers, who visit here to enjoy the real wildlife. It is located in transition zone between moderate western Himalaya and central Himalaya, which increases the species diversity and the viewing forecast. The park has large number of birds species like White-naped Woodpecker, Greater Scaup, Black-bellied Tern, Pallas's Fish Eagle, Great Hornbill, Black-necked Stork, Northern Goshawk, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Scaly Thrush, Pale-footed Bush Warbler, Tytler's Leaf Warbler, Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, Green Avadavat and Reed Bunting.
The park is famous for its 600 elephants, 250 leopards, and 11 tigers along with other animals, who have been kept in the natural forest environment. It has now become the second tiger reserve of Uttarakhand after Corbet.

History

The Rajaji National Park initially started as three separate national parks in Uttarakhand. The pre-existing natural abundance of the area, along with its thriving community of wildlife, flora and fauna and its idyllic weather served as the perfect premise for the establishment of these national parks.
In 1964, a stretch of the Dehradun Forest spanning 90 square kilometres was declared as the Motichur wildlife sanctuary. The Rajaji Wildlife sanctuary had existed since 1948 and the Chilla sanctuary since 1977 in Shivalik and Lansdowne respectively.
In 1983, these three parks were combined to form the Rajaji National Park as it stands today, which covers an area of over 820 square kilometres. In April 2015, Rajaji National Park received the status of a tiger reserve, making it the second reserve for tigers in Uttarakhand.
It remains one of the most picturesque and well-maintained national parks in the country. The government decided to name the park after one of the most renowned freedom fighters of the country- C. Rajagopalachari, who was known as Rajaji.
After playing a pivotal role in fighting for India’s independence, he was also the last Governor-General of post-independence India. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna for his services to the nation.

Wildlife

The endless expanse of green jungles in Rajaji National Park is the perfect place for large herds of animals to thrive and survive in their natural environment. The most famous and frequently spotted animal at the National Park is the Asian Elephants who roam freely and often in herds.
In fact, elephant safari is one of the most popular safaris in the park. In 2015, the park was officially declared a tiger reserve because of its impressive and increasingly growing tiger population. It is also known for gorals and mountain goats, which are found in abundance.

Safari

Get full adventure and wildlife at this park! Elephant Safari in Rajaji is one of the best way to explore the striking forest, which is abode to approx. 500 wild elephants and a herd of deer, jackals, wild boar, leopards, bears and large number of birds. Jeep Safari is also available there to explore the wildlife of forest.

Jeep Safari

Jeep safari at rajaji national park will open 14 Nov 17 as per management of Tiger reserve Raja ji Ntional park. You can enjoy 02 time jeep safari in a day morning & Afternoon. Best time to Safari is afternoon because that time animals comes out side for food & drink. Safari startes from 03 diffrent places Motichour, Surashwari devi, chilla but chilla safari more famous. We cover 36 km ares of Raja ji National Park. Where you can see wild Animals.
Jeep safari is famous in Rajaji National Park for see Elephant. Rajaji national park name has converted tiger reserve Raja ji national park. Raja ji National park is touch 03 districts border Haridwar, Pauri, Dehradun which is in the state of Uttarakhand. Rajaji National Park was established by Late Shri Rajagopalachari ji on 1983. which was the famous freedom fighter and first governor general of India. Area of rajaji ji national Park is approx 820.42 sq km. you can see approx 400 types of birds & 100 types of animals in park.

Elephant Safari

lephant Jungle Safari at Rajaji National Park has the best and new experience of jungle over the Elephant which you can enjoy in your vacation time in the state of Uttarakhand. You have Golden opportunity to see wild animal very near to you. Haridwar Rishikesh Tourism provide Elephant safari you can come here and enjoy the Elephant safari. Elephant safari start from Haridwar & Rishikesh.
Elephant Jungle Safari at Rajaji National Park is a best way to see wild animal very near to you. Now this is the time to visit Jungle Safari on Elephant for 60 - 90 minutes. Elephant Safari is start from morning time 07 to 09 am and evening time is 03 to 05 pm.
At Rajaji National Park you have can the chance of viewing Spotted Deer, Sambhar, Wild Boar, tiger, leopard, Barking deer, Goral Two kinds of Bears Himalayan Black and Sloth, and over 400 bird species makes Rajaji National Park a perfect wild life safari.
Experience jungle over elephant is new way to explore. You can see wild animal very near to you. Other animals also don't bother the elephant presence. Rajaji National Park is now prepare for Elephant Safari after long years. Now guest can enjoy jungle safari on Elephant. It is 60-90 minutes safari on Elephant, in morning time (Gate open: 07-09 am) and in evening time (Gate open 3-5pm) in which you can experience Jungle. At Rajaji you can get the chance of viewing Spotted Deer, Sambhar, Wild Boar, tiger, leopard, Barking deer, Goral Two kinds of Bears Himalayan Black and Sloth, and over 400 bird species makes Rajaji National Park a perfect wild life safari and bird watching destination.

Flora

The Shivalik ranges are characterized by a unique ecosystem of Sal trees and bamboo forests that cover the entire area with subtropical and tropical plants and trees. Coniferous trees, deciduous forests, pine trees, grasslands and riverine vegetation can be found in the National Park.
The unique climatic conditions, as well as the presence of the mountains, rivers and plains, has allowed the flora in the area to thrive and multiply. Some of the more recognizable flowering trees include Acacia, Kydia, Bel, Pipal, Adina, Amaldas, Lantana, Chilla, Kachnar, Ber, Shorea, etc.

Fauna

The presence of animals and birds in large numbers is one of the most distinctive features of Rajaji National Park. The conjoining of three National Parks has added to the repertoire of animals who have made this area their home, making a safe place for them to thrive and grow in their natural habitat.
Being an official tiger reserve, it is home to many tigers that one can see when on a jeep safari. Apart from tigers, it is also home to the Asian Elephant, Striped hyena, langurs, barking deer, sloth bears, jungle cats, leopards, bears, porcupines, jackals and the yellow-throated marten.
It is also a popular place for bird-watching due to the abundance of birds such as woodpeckers, barbets, fire-tailed sunbird, pheasants, great-pied hornbills, starlings, cuckoos, partridges, vultures, barbets and much more.

Tourist Attractions

Treasure the nature

Discover the assets of nature that include flora and fauna, pine trees, grasslands, forests, spot wildlife, and unique ecosystem that you would not find it anywhere else. One of the popular places to watch an abundant variety of birds."

Safari Ride

Enjoy the most popular and impressive elephant safari (ride) in the national park. A perfect place to spot groups of elephants, roaming around freely. You will also find mountain goats in large numbers at this park.

Trek up the hills

Tourists also prefer outdoor treks and overnight camping near the park to witness the wonderful terrain of landscape. When you trek your way up, many birds are also sighted. Assan Barrage is considered a bird’s paradise, which is 26 km away and you can drive down from the Chilla canal until 40 km till the Motichur trail.

River Rafting

If you are looking for a thrilling and adventure then plan a day for Rafting on the river Ganges, situated in Dehradun.

Feast on the Local Food

There are plenty of restaurants near to the park to satiate your hunger that offers local cuisines and serve fresh meals just like home-cooked food. There are some good relaxing spots where you can sit and relax after a long tiring day."

Best Time to Visit

The park is only open from 15th November to 15th June. Even though the temperatures are a little high during April, it is the best time to visit the park because this is when you can spot most of the animals.
It is also advisable that you visit in the early hours of the morning because temperatures can soar in the afternoon. Winter is also a good time to visit, but the temperature drops very low so make sure you carry appropriate warm clothing.

Weather

Rajaji National Park is only the second wildlife reserve in Uttarakhand, other than Jim Corbett National Park. It enjoys a vastly rich and diverse combination of flora and fauna and is home to some of the most endangered and unique species in the world. From November to June however, Rajaji National Park remains closed to the public due to extreme weather conditions. The summer is normally the best time to spot animals and birds, along with certain winter months. During this period the temperatures remain moderate to hot, which enables most of the wildlife to come out of hiding and toward water bodies to quench their thirst. To find out more about the best time to visit Rajaji National Park read below.

Winter (November – February)

The Rajaji National Park opens its doors to the public again in mid-November. Clear skies and cool weather is the norm during this season, with temperatures hovering between 17°C to 22°C. However, visitors should note that December and January are the coldest months here and it is advisable to well clad with woolen jackets, scarves etc. as it can get quite chilly. Winters and summers are both ideal for bird watching and wildlife safaris, with a diverse variety of species on offer.

Monsoon (July – September)

The national park tends to receive a healthy amount of rainfall every monsoon. July signals the commencement of the monsoon in the area. Midway through July, the rains gain momentum, putting a stop to all tourism in the area. Although the rainfall increases the lushness and greenery of the park, it is still considered unsafe to venture out during this period. As a result, the park is shut from June to November.

Summer (March – June)

This is by far the best time to visit the national park. The relatively higher temperatures averaging between 22°C and 38°C, along with the clear skies and drier days gives visitors a perfect opportunity to spot some of the most unique birds and wildlife like the Indian Langoor, leopards, Barking Deer etc. Due to the heat a lot of these animals are forced to come out of hiding to nearby water bodies to quench their thirst and cool off from the relentless sun. Wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers will find this the safari to be an unforgettable experience.

How To Reach

By Air :

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun (35km). From Jolly Grant Airport, daily 55 minutes flight from Delhi is available.

By Rail :

The nearest railway station is Haridwar (24 Km), Rishikesh (18 Km) and Dehradun (56 Km).

By Road :

The nearest route by bus or car is Delhi (220 km) and Lucknow (510 km) to reach the park. While, Chilla is only 8 Km far from Haridwar Railway Station that is very well connected to main cities and 24 Km from Rishikesh.

Hotels In Rajaji National Park

Wild Brook Retreat-Rajaji National Park , is an Eco-lodge situated in Gohari range of Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand, in the midst of the wonderful valley of Nalani in the foothills of Himalayas, just 24 kilometer away from Haridwar. Encompassed by virgin timber lands and wild streams Wild Brook Retreat is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi. It takes you away from madness and chaos of civilization yet close enough for an easy access and great perspectives of wild rivulets, with a scenery of rich timberlands. We believe in bringing absolute eco-friendly atmosphere for our guests. The Wild Brook Retreat- Rajaji National Park is designed to provide maximum daylight inside the cottages and powered by solar energy. Our eco-lodge theme will provide a beautiful green retreat and eco ethics. The food served resembles home cooked meals which are made by a local cook using locally available groceries. So come and stay at one of the best resorts in Rajaji National Park and enjoy a spectacular experience in the midst of nature. Residing in Rajaji National Park, our resort seeks the warmth of nature and wildlife for you to explore the wondrous gifts of mother earth.
We offer a stay in eco-friendly spacious cottages with solar power supply located in the wilderness, along a small stream at the best location in Rajaji National Park. We had established the first eco-lodge in Rajaji National Park in Uttarakhand to promote eco-tourism in Rajaji National Park. We are promoting employment by way of training local youth and empowering them for livelihood in the their area itself. Our eco-cottages have fireplaces to keep you warm in winter and very high ceiling to keep the ambient temperature at bay at the time of extreme weather conditions in summer and in winter. We also have lavish verandas for relaxed sitting and offering opportunity for bird watching while sipping your morning coffee., Cottages provide a view of mountains and rivers. Our resplendent cottages and palatial elegance put us on par with the best of the nature resorts near Delhi. Our cottages come with a stunning river view cottages and mountain view cottages, which creates a magical aura of a blissful holiday in Rajaji National Park. Our impeccable cottages and facilities have contributed to making us one of the best resorts in Rajaji National Park.