Rajaji National Park is a prominent Indian national park and tiger reserve located at the foothills of the Himalayas in the state of Uttarakhand. Named after C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji), a prominent freedom fighter and the first Governor-General of independent India, it is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.
Rajaji National Park is situated in the state of Uttarakhand, northern India, and it spreads across three districts: Dehradun, Haridwar, and Pauri Garhwal.
Rajaji National Park is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun, about 35 kilometers away. The closest railway station is in Haridwar, which is about 24 kilometers from the park entrance. Rajaji is also accessible by road from nearby cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.
The best time to visit Rajaji National Park is from mid-November to mid-June when the weather is pleasant, and most areas of the park are open for tourists. The park remains closed during the monsoon season due to heavy rains, which is from mid-June to mid-November.
Rajaji National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, leopards, spotted deer, sambars, wild boars, barking deer, goral, sloth bears, king cobras, and a variety of bird species. The park is also an excellent place for bird watching, with over 315 avian species documented.
Yes, safari tours are available in Rajaji National Park. Visitors can take Jeep safaris to explore the park's wildlife and landscapes. It's advisable to book these safaris in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
There is a range of accommodation options available within and around Rajaji National Park, from forest rest houses and eco-lodges to luxury resorts. Staying within the park allows visitors to experience the natural environment more closely, but requires advance booking due to limited availability.
Yes, there is an entry fee for visiting Rajaji National Park. The fee varies for Indian nationals and foreigners, and there are additional charges for vehicles and cameras. It is advised to check the latest fee structure and rules on the official park website or with local tour operators prior to visiting.
Visitors are expected to follow park rules such as maintaining a safe distance from wildlife, not feeding or disturbing animals, avoiding the use of flash photography, and keeping to designated safari routes. Littering and plastic are strictly prohibited within the park. It's important to be mindful and respect the natural habitat while touring Rajaji National Park.
Yes, Rajaji National Park is suitable for day trips, especially if you're staying in nearby towns like Dehradun, Haridwar, or Rishikesh. You can enjoy a day safari and return to your accommodation by evening. However, to fully experience the park, an overnight stay is recommended.