Rajaji National Park Haridwar: located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity, especially Asian elephants and Royal Bengal tigers. Spread across the districts of Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal, it lies in the foothills of the Himalayas and offers a perfect blend of forest, hills, rivers, and wildlife.
Quick Facts about Rajaji National Park Haridwar
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Uttarakhand, India |
| Established | 1983 |
| Total Area | Approx. 820 sq. km |
| Named After | C. Rajagopalachari (India’s first Governor-General) |
| River System | Ganga, Song, Chilla, Suswa |
| Declared as | Tiger Reserve in 2015 |
History of Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park was formed in 1983 by merging three wildlife sanctuaries — Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla. In 2015, it was upgraded to a Tiger Reserve due to the presence of Bengal tigers and growing conservation needs.
Major Wildlife in the Park
You can spot a wide variety of animals and birds here, such as:
- Asian Elephant
- Royal Bengal Tiger
- Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear
- Spotted Deer, Sambar, Wild Boar
- Over 300 species of birds
How to Reach Rajaji National Park
Nearest Cities: Haridwar (10–12 km), Rishikesh (20 km), Dehradun (50 km)
By Train
- Haridwar Junction is the closest major railway station.
- From there, hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Chilla or Motichur gate.
By Air
- Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) is the nearest airport (~35 km).
- Taxis are easily available to reach the park.
By Road
- Well-connected via road from Delhi, Dehradun, Rishikesh, and nearby cities.
- Private cabs, buses, and self-drive options are also available.
Park Timings & Safari Schedule
| Season | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (15 Nov – 15 Feb) | 7:00 AM | 3:00 PM |
| Summer (16 Feb – 30 June) | 6:00 AM | 4:00 PM |
Note
- The park remains closed from 15 June to 14 November due to monsoon.
- Safari rides are available in the morning and evening.
Entry Fees & Safari Charges
| Category | Indian Nationals | Foreign Nationals |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Fee (per person) | ₹150 | ₹600 |
| Jeep Safari (6-seater) | ₹2500–₹3500 | ₹3500–₹4500 |
| Guide Charges | ₹300–₹500 | ₹300–₹500 |
Prices may vary based on gate and season.
Safari Zones & Entry Gates
| Safari Zone | Entry Gate | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Chilla Zone | Near Haridwar (10 km) | Elephants, deer, birds |
| Motichur Zone | Haridwar side | Tigers, leopards, bears |
| Asharodi Zone | Dehradun side | Birds, elephants, flora |
| Ranipur Zone | Haridwar | Bird watching |
Also read: Madhav National Park: 9th tiger reserve of Madhya Pradesh
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Book your safari online in advance, especially during peak season.
- Carry water bottles, binoculars, light snacks, camera, and sunscreen.
- Wear comfortable, seasonal clothing.
- Stay quiet during safari and follow the guide’s instructions.
Contact & Booking Information
- Forest Department Website: https://forest.uk.gov.in
- Rajaji Tiger Reserve Office: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
- Online Booking Portals: Available on government or private travel platforms
Final Thoughts
Rajaji National Park is a perfect weekend getaway for wildlife lovers, photographers, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re hoping to spot a majestic elephant or enjoy the serene beauty of the forest, this park offers a memorable wilderness experience in the heart of Uttarakhand.
