Weather: 11°C - 23°C
Ideal Duration: 1-2 Days
Best Time to Visit: Mid-November to Mid-June
Tags: Wildlife Sanctuary, Nature, Safari, Adventure
Category: Wildlife, Nature Reserve, Eco-tourism

Overview of Rajaji National Park

Located in the heart of Uttarakhand, Rajaji National Park is a sprawling wildlife haven that stretches across the Shivalik mountain range. Encompassing Dehradun, Haridwar, and Pauri Garhwal districts, this park is a wildlife lover’s paradise. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, it is home to a vast variety of flora and fauna, making it a great destination for nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Wildlife and Attractions

Rajaji National Park is primarily famous for its resident wildlife, including the majestic tiger and the mighty Asian elephant, making it one of the best places in India to spot these incredible animals. Recently designated as a Tiger Reserve by the Government of India, the park continues to preserve and protect a range of endangered species. The park spans over 1,100 square kilometers, offering ample space for wildlife to roam freely.

Some key highlights include sightings of:

  • Tigers
  • Asian Elephants
  • Panthers
  • Bears
  • Chital (spotted deer)
  • Sambar (a large deer species)
  • Wild boars, wild cats
  • King Cobras
  • Pythons
  • Monitor lizards

Additionally, the park is a haven for bird watchers, with a variety of migratory birds visiting, especially after the monsoon season. The birdlife is diverse, with over 400 species recorded here, including waterfowl, raptors, and forest birds.

Things to Do at Rajaji National Park

  • Jeep Safari: Explore the park’s diverse terrain and wildlife on a thrilling jeep safari. The 34 km jungle track offers a deep dive into the natural beauty of the park.
  • Elephant Safari: For a more immersive experience, opt for an elephant safari where you can observe wildlife up close, from the comfort of an elephant back.
  • Bird Watching: A birding enthusiast's dream, Rajaji offers numerous birding trails perfect for spotting migratory and native bird species.
  • Nature Walks: For those who prefer a slower pace, nature walks guided by experts will take you through the park's beautiful trails.

Flora and Fauna

The park is renowned for its Sal, Teak, and Shorea trees that dominate the landscape, contributing to the park’s dense forests. Its flora and fauna diversity is a treat for naturalists and photographers. The presence of fossils dating back 10 million years adds a historical element to this ecological wonderland.

Best Time to Visit Rajaji National Park

The ideal time to visit Rajaji National Park is from Mid-November to Mid-June. This period offers pleasant weather, with cool and comfortable temperatures that are perfect for safaris and wildlife sightings. The park tends to be crowded during the winter months (December to February), so visiting during the shoulder months of November and March to June provides a more peaceful experience.

How to Reach Rajaji National Park

  • By Road: Rajaji National Park is easily accessible by road from Dehradun (around 20 km away), Haridwar (about 10 km), and Rishikesh (around 20 km). The park is well-connected to these major towns by taxis and local transport.

  • By Train: The nearest railway stations are Haridwar Railway Station and Dehradun Railway Station, which are well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 35 km away from the park. You can take a taxi or car hire from the airport to reach the park.

Entry Fees

  • Indian Nationals: INR 50 (for adults), INR 20 (for children)

  • Foreign Nationals: INR 500 (for adults), INR 100 (for children)

  • Safari Charges: Additional charges for jeep and elephant safaris.