Rajaji National Park is a prominent national park located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Spread across an area of approximately 820 square kilometers, it is nestled at the foothills of the Shivalik range in the northwestern part of the state. Established in 1983, the park was named in honor of C. Rajagopalachari, also known as Rajaji, who was a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement and served as the Governor-General of India.
The park is intersected by several rivers, including the Ganges, which flows along its eastern boundary. This network of water bodies contributes to the park's ecological diversity and provides a crucial lifeline for the flora and fauna within.
Rajaji National Park is renowned for its varied wildlife, with a wide range of species calling it home. Some of the notable inhabitants include Asian elephants, tigers, leopards, Himalayan black bears, spotted deer, sambar deer, barking deer, wild boars, and langurs. The park is also a haven for numerous bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. Over 300 avian species, including the Great Hornbill, Pied Hornbill, Crested Kingfisher, and a variety of eagles and vultures, have been recorded in the park.
The term "84 Kutiya" translates to 84 huts. The number 84 symbolizes the base numeral of the believed 84,00,000 species on Earth.
Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary, spanning 249 square km, is situated on the eastern banks of the Ganga River.
Established in 1966, Motichur Wildlife Sanctuary spans approximately 90 sq. km and was carved out of the Dehradun forests.
In 2017, Rajaji National Park was designated as a tiger reserve, covering an area of 820 square kilometers. It is located in the state of Uttarakhand, specifically in Haridwar.
Mohand Tourism Zone is situated on Delhi-Dehradun National Highway 72A. A captivating 13 km drive through the Chillawali range to the Dholkhand FRH, passing Chillawali and Andheri Rau, ensures an intriguing journey with the likelihood of spotting Cheetal.
The Chilla Safari Zone stands out as the premier safari route in Rajaji National Park, offering a 36-kilometer safari experience for tourists. The wildlife in the Chilla Range thrives due to diverse habitats, allowing visitors to glimpse Tigers, Leopards, Elephants, Spotted Deer, Sambhar Deer, Barking Deer, and Wild Boar. Chilla is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with three species of Hornbill, nine species of Woodpecker, five species of Barbet, four species of Kingfisher, and over 150 different types of birds to be spotted. For booking, please visit: https://rajajitigerreserve.uk.gov.in/jungle-safari-booking.aspx
Morning : 6 Am to 10 Am
Evening: 2 Pm to 6 Pm
The nearest airport to Rajaji National Park is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 35 kilometers away.
The nearest railway station to Rajaji National Park is in Dehradun, which is well-connected to major cities across India.
The park is well-connected by road, and you can drive or take a bus from nearby cities and towns.
Uttarakhand
Inside Rajaji National Park, there are limited options for food and refreshments. Depending on the specific location within the park, there may be small local eateries or dhabas in nearby towns or villages where you can find basic meals. The towns surrounding Rajaji National Park, such as Haridwar and Rishikesh, offer a wider range of dining options. You can find restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors in these areas.
Hindi is primarily spoken here but tourists can communicate with the locals in English as well.
The Chilla Range of Rajaji Tiger Reserve remains open for tourists from 15th October to 15th June. Chilla Range remains closed for a Day Visit from 16th June to 14th October.
