Explore the Wild Beauty of Uttarakhand’s Rajaji National Park
India is known for its various national parks and reserves offering a large variety of glamorous flora and fauna. Among the most famous national parks of India, Rajaji National Park acquires a very special position and offers a perfect destination for fauna-loving people. Officially being one of the most important Tiger and Elephant Reserves of India, it is the home of 400 animal species along with endangered Bengal tigers and Asian elephants. This park applies a great force of attraction to its visitors through its adorable peacocks, sambar deers, leopards, tigers, and elephants. As it is located in the Shivalik range of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, it covers a large range of 820 sq kilometres. This park was named after one of the famous freedom fighters Chakravarthi Rajagopalachari (casually known as Rajaji).
If you are planning a trip to this mesmerizing park or other attractions in the region, it’s always a great idea to consult the best travel agent in Uttarakhand for expert guidance and customized travel plans.
Location and Accessibility
While discussing the location of this famous eco-tourism in General terms, it is located in Haridwar in the state of Uttarakhand, India. This state is not only famous for its stunning national parks like Rajaji but also serves as a gateway to many sacred pilgrimages. In the lovely state of Uttarakhand, this adventurous park is supported by three districts named Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri Garhwal, among which Haridwar and Dehradun are the closest, approximately at a distance of 25 km. Pauri Garhwal is a little farther at a distance of 35 km. If you want to travel to this park via aeroplane, then Jolly Grant Airport(Dehradun) is the closest airport, approximately at a distance of 35 km. For Train passengers, The Haridwar Railway station will be the best choice as it is at a small distance of 25 km from the park. Whether you use a train or an aeroplane, this tourist place never disappoints in providing the ease of journey.
The Exciting History of Rajaji National Park
This eye-catching national park was once a hunting forest for rulers belonging to the British colony and the princely state of Tehri Garhwal. After the independence of India in 1952, this area was declared a sanctuary with a prime mission of protection of elephants. Later, around 1966, the sanctuary got some enlargement and was named Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary. After a decade, this Chilla sanctuary was merged with two renowned sanctuaries individually named Motichur and Rajaji Sanctuary. In search of convenience, these sanctuaries got their combined new name Rajaji National Park. This park was later declared a national park in 1983. Since 2005, this national park has continuously been recognised as a reserve to protect both the tiger and elephant populations of India.
Key animal species of Rajaji National Park
The key Animals which are found in Rajaji National Park are:-
1. Asian elephant
2. Bengal tigers
3. Leopards ( cheetah)
4. Sambar deers
5. Spotted deer( chital)
6. Barking deers
7. Himalayan black bear
8. Apes( langurs)
9. Wild boars
10. Himalayan Goral
While roaming through the forest using Safari, you can easily see wild boars, chitals, leopards and elephants. Finding tigers in the park demands a little patience.
Bird-watching opportunities in the park
Rajaji National Park is me toto00 bird species, which gives this park a true heavenly vibe. While roaming through the park’s forest, you can capture adorable dancing peacocks, hornbills, eagles and vultures. Sometimes, as per your great luck, here you can see the Himalayan Monal too, which is an endangered species of bird.
In the park’s rivers and streams, you will be able to see several species of kingfishers and ducks diving and playing in the water. While talking about grassland level, you will be attracted to beautiful birds like quails, larks and pipits.
The most vibrant time to go birdwatching in this park is the month of November to March when the weather is pleasant and mild.
Entry fees and ticket prices for Rajaji National Park
For Rajaji National Park, prices of tickets and other accessories vary for Indian and foreign tourists. Here is the list of prices for both Indian and foreign tourists.
| Name of accessory | Price for Indian Tourist | Price for Foreigners |
| Entry Ticket | ₹150 | ₹250 |
| Still camera | ₹0 | ₹50 |
| Vehicle fees | ₹250/ vehicle | ₹500/vehicle |
The best time to visit the Rajaji National Park
The Rajaji National Park remains open between the 15th of November and the 15th of June but remains closed all over the rainy season. The ideal time to visit this park ranges between the months of November to April as in the winter and mild summer seasons, the animal and bird watching experience is just awesome. In summer times, it feels so hot roaming through the park, and animals, along with the birds, tend to remain hidden inside their respective homes. If we visit this park between November to April then it gives a true paradise experience.
Timings for entry and safari
The time of visiting the park starts in the early morning at 6:00 a.m., and afternoon opportunities commence at 2:30 pm. Overall it takes 3-4 hours for each person to have a nice overview of the park. Generally, safaris are arranged in two shifts. One in the morning from 6 o’clock to 9 o’clock and the second in the evening from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Early morning safaris are considered the most vibrant option as they feel hotter than afternoon safaris, which gives a little uncomfortable vibe.
Various jungle safari options in Rajaji National Park
There are various kinds of safari options in Rajaji National Park. Some are mentioned below with their prices for both Indian and Foreign tourists.
| Type of Safari | Price for Indians | Price for Foreigners |
| Jeep Safari (6 persons) | ₹4500 – ₹6000 | ₹9000 – ₹12000 |
| Canter Safari (16 persons) | ₹1500 – ₹2500/head | ₹3000 – ₹5000/head |
| Elephant Safari (4 persons) | ₹5000 – ₹7000 | ₹10000 – ₹14000 |
| Trekking Safari | ₹1000 – ₹1500 | ₹2000 – ₹3000 |
Chilla range vs Motichur range:- Tough battle
People find it so tough to choose the better Safari option between the Chilla range and the Motichur range as both the safari zones are outstanding players in their fields. Let’s discuss and compare them one by one so that you can decide the best possible option for yourself.
Chilla range:- This safari zone offers the maximum possible chances of spotting tigers as this range is especially famous for its tiger population where tigers can be visited frequently. Chilla range offers very dense forests and covers 300 bird species, which makes it a bird-watching paradise.
Motichur Range:- Motichur range is famous for its tall sal trees and elephant population. Due to its open landscape, it becomes easier to explore animals like elephants, deer and wild boars in this region. This safari region provides a soothing safari experience as it is a crowd-free region and offers a glamorous view of the Ganges River.
What to expect during a safari?
To get a good safari experience, try to report 30 minutes earlier than the scheduled safari time. After completing all the formalities, you will be provided with some information regarding the rules and regulations of the park by the park officials.
Now it comes to getting a safari vehicle. A trained driver and guide will ride that vehicle in a planned route according to the time slot you have chosen for the safari.
During the safari ride, you will be able to see various kinds of adorable birds (peacocks, vultures, and eagles) and animals(leopards, elephants and tigers) with their respective groups. Your guide will now comment on each unique creature that will come across the ride and will also answer all your questions regarding wildlife and the park.
Recommended Resorts and hotels near the park
Although there are limited options for hotels and Resorts around the Rajaji National Park, I have picked some good options for Resorts and hotels for you.
| Recommended Hotels | Recommended Resorts |
| Ganga Lahri (1.4km from Park) | V Resorts (luxury) |
| Udman Haridwar (1.3km from Park) | The Forest Hill (Mid-range) |
| Haveli Hari Ganga ( 1.7km from Park) | Eco Wild Camps Rajaji (Budget-Friendly) |
| Renest Haridwar (2.1km from Park) | GMVN Chilla Resort ( Govt. Owned) |
| Hotel Trishul (2.1km from Park) | Glenville Resorts and Spa (luxury) |
Camping options within the park
For camping options within the park, there is the availability of both private and government-operated camps. Private sources are mentioned above in the table. For government-operated camps, there are mainly two options Chilla Camp and Motichur Camp. Both provide comfortable accommodations and basic needs.
Distance of Rajaji National Park from the nearby places
| Location | Distance in kilometres |
| Haridwar | 25 kilometres |
| Rishikesh | 35 kilometres |
| Dehradun | 55 kilometres |
| Chilla Gate | 8 kilometres |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the ticket price for Rajaji National Park?
Ans:- The entry ticket prices for Rajaji National Park vary with the nationality. Indian tourists pay ₹150/head and Foreign tourists pay ₹600/head.
Q2. Where is Rajaji National Park located?
Ans:- Rajaji National Park is located in the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand, India.
Q3. What animals can be seen in Rajaji National Park?
Ans:- Rajaji National Park is the home of many adorable animals like tigers, leopards, apes, wild boars, deer, sloth bears, elephants, etc.
Q4. When to visit Rajaji National Park?
Ans:- You can visit the Park anywhere between 15th November to 15th June as it remains closed during the whole rainy season.
Q5. What is the most vibrant time to visit birds and animals respectively in Rajaji National Park?
Ans: The winter season is considered the best for watching birds, while the month of April to June is best for watching animals.
