Welcome to Rajaji National Park, one of Uttarakhand’s hidden gems where nature speaks, animals roam free, and adventure awaits around every corner! 🐅🌲 If you’re craving a break from city chaos and looking to soak in the wild charm of the Himalayas, then this national park is your perfect escape.
Let’s take a deep dive into everything you need to know—right from wildlife safaris in Rajaji, best visiting times, zones to explore, and much more! 🎒🦜
🐾 What is Rajaji National Park Famous For?
Rajaji National Park is known for:
- 🐘 Asian elephants and rich wildlife
- 🐅 Being a Tiger Reserve
- 🌄 Beautiful landscapes of the Shivalik ranges
- 🐦 Over 400 species of birds
- 🌳 Lush flora and fauna
- 🛻 Thrilling wildlife safaris
Spread across 820 sq. km, the park covers Dehradun, Haridwar, and Pauri Garhwal districts and is named after C. Rajagopalachari, lovingly known as Rajaji.
📍 Location of Rajaji National Park
Located in the state of Uttarakhand, India, Rajaji National Park sits at the foothills of the Himalayas. It lies between Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun, making it super accessible from multiple cities.
📅 Best Time to Visit Rajaji National Park
The best time to visit Rajaji National Park is between November and June.
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Perfect for birdwatching & tiger sightings.
- Summer (Mar–June): Ideal for spotting elephants & other wildlife.
- Monsoon (July–October): ❌ Closed due to heavy rainfall.
🎟️ Rajaji National Park Entry Fee & Timings
| Category | Price |
| Indian Adults | ₹150/person |
| Foreign Nationals | ₹600/person |
| Vehicle Entry | ₹250–₹500 |
| Still Camera | ₹100 |
| Video Camera | ₹500 |
🕕 Park Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📆 Open from: Mid-November to Mid-June
🛻 Wildlife Safari in Rajaji National Park
Nothing beats the thrill of a wildlife safari in Rajaji! You can choose:
🚙 Jeep Safari
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Best zone: Chilla Range
- Wildlife: Elephants, Tigers, Leopards, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Monitor Lizards
🐘 Elephant Safari
Want a royal ride? Try a Rajaji Elephant Safari (available in select zones). It’s a slower but magical way to explore the dense jungle.
Safari Booking Tip: Book your ride in advance through authorized operators or the Uttarakhand Forest Department’s portal.
🌳 Zones and Tourist Places in Rajaji National Park
There are several ranges/zones you can explore inside the park. Each has its own unique charm:
🌿 1. Chilla Range (Most Popular)
Located near Haridwar, this is the most visited zone. It’s well-organized with safari trails, wildlife sightings, and birdwatching spots. There’s even a Ganga canal that flows through it!
Highlights:
- Easy safari access
- Tiger and elephant sightings
- Rest houses and eco-lodges
🌾 2. Motichur Range
Perfect for serious wildlife lovers! Fewer tourists and more raw wilderness. Leopards, bears, and elephants are often spotted here.
🌲 3. Ranipur Range
Located close to Haridwar city, Ranipur is less explored and ideal for those who seek peace and untouched nature.
🦢 4. Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve
Birdwatchers, rejoice! Birdwatching in Rajaji is best done here. From kingfishers and woodpeckers to rare migratory birds—it’s a paradise! 🐤📸
🌊 5. River Rafting in Rajaji (Near Ganga)
Yes, you can even go river rafting near the Chilla Range on the Ganga river! It’s an adrenaline rush combined with scenic beauty.
🌱 Flora and Fauna of Rajaji National Park
Rajaji is a botanical and zoological treasure chest! Let’s look at what makes its ecosystem so diverse.
🦌 Wildlife Species to Watch For:
- Bengal Tigers
- Asian Elephants
- Leopards
- Sloth Bears
- Sambar Deer
- Barking Deer
- Hyenas
- Porcupines
- Monitor Lizards
- Langurs & Macaques
🌸 Flora: The Botanical Beauty
The flora of Rajaji National Park ranges from sal forests, riverine vegetation, to grasslands. You’ll spot:
- Sal (Shorea robusta)
- Bamboo groves
- Acacia
- Sheesham
- Ber and Bahera trees
This diversity supports a rich wildlife population throughout the park.
📷 Activities for Nature Enthusiasts
Apart from safaris, Rajaji offers much more for the curious explorer:
🥾 Trekking & Nature Trails
Trekking through the park’s gentle slopes is an incredible experience. Some popular trails include:
- Ramgarh Trail
- Kunao Forest Trail
Just make sure you go with a guide or forest ranger for safety.
📸 Photography in Rajaji
From foggy sunrises and elephant herds to vibrant birds—Rajaji is a photographer’s dream!
Tip: Carry a zoom lens and be patient. Nature rewards those who wait. 📷✨
🏕️ Where to Stay in Rajaji National Park
There’s no shortage of stay options near and inside the park:
🏡 Forest Rest Houses (FRH)
Managed by the Forest Department, these are located in:
- Chilla
- Motichur
- Ranipur
Budget-friendly and surrounded by nature!
⛺ Eco-Lodges and Resorts
Private operators offer eco-resorts with modern comforts and wildlife ambiance. Some top picks:
- Rajaji Jungle Lodge
- Wild Brook Retreat
- Elephant View Resort
🗺️ How to Reach Rajaji National Park
🚗 By Road
Well connected from Delhi (220 km), Haridwar (10 km), Rishikesh (20 km), and Dehradun (55 km).
🚆 By Train
Nearest railway stations:
- Haridwar
- Rishikesh
- Dehradun
✈️ By Air
Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (35 km)
💡 Travel Tips for Rajaji First-Timers
- Wear dull-colored clothes—avoid bright colors
- Always book safaris in advance
- Don’t litter. Be a responsible tourist
- Keep binoculars & zoom lens for better viewing
- Follow all guidelines given by forest officials
🌟 Why You Should Visit Rajaji National Park
Whether you’re a solo explorer, family traveler, or couple seeking peace in the wild—Rajaji National Park Uttarakhand has something for everyone:
- ✅ Untouched beauty
- ✅ Easy accessibility
- ✅ Affordable safaris
- ✅ Great for birdwatching & photography
- ✅ Close to major cities
🧳 Quick Checklist Before You Go
✅ Safari tickets (book in advance)
✅ Government ID
✅ Comfortable walking shoes
✅ Power bank for your phone/camera
✅ Water bottle & snacks
✅ Binoculars & insect repellent
🏁 Conclusion
Rajaji National Park isn’t just a place—it’s an emotion! 🌿 Whether you’re wandering the sal forests, riding an elephant past a herd of deer, or hearing birds sing as the sun rises—you’ll feel alive here.
So, gear up, pack light, and let the wilderness welcome you. Rajaji is calling… and you must go! 🐘🌲
❓ FAQs: Rajaji National Park Tourist Places
1. Is Rajaji National Park a Tiger Reserve?
Yes! It was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2015 and is home to Bengal Tigers.
2. How many zones are there in Rajaji National Park?
The park has three main zones—Chilla, Motichur, and Ranipur, plus bird areas like Jhilmil Jheel.
3. What are the safari charges in Rajaji?
Safari charges vary but generally range between ₹2500–₹4000 per jeep, accommodating 6 people.
4. Can I stay inside the park?
Yes, through Forest Rest Houses (FRHs) and private eco-lodges.
5. Which animals are commonly seen during the safari?
Common sightings include elephants, deer, langurs, and with luck—tigers and leopards!