Go there for: Asian elephants
Rajaji National Park at a glance
The Rajaji National Park is a pristine natural paradise nestled at the foot of the Himalayas spreading across three districts of Uttaranchal - Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri Garhwal in India. Though it is yet to be tagged a National Park, it expects a notification soon and functions as one, with its privileges. Three existing sanctuaries in the Dehradun Shivaliks- Rajaji, Motichur and Chilla were amalgamated into a large protected area and labelled Rajaji in the year 1983 after the famous freedom fighter Late Sri C. Rajgopalachari, popularly known as Rajaji. Known for its wild elephants, about 150 approximately as per recent studies, the 820.42 Sq. Km of the Park makes a suitable habitat for a astounding variety of wild flora and fauna and a an exorbitant holiday destination for tourists worldwide.
Widlife Attractions of Rajaji National Park
Owing to its pleasant climatic conditions Rajaji National Park is home to a rich mulitude of wild flora and fauna. It is the North Westrn limits of the Asian elephants. 23 species of mammals- including tigers, leopards, elephants, Nilgai (blue bull), deer, jungle cat, wild boar and sloth bear- and 315 species of birds are found in Rajaji. The most prominent avian species include pea fowl, woodpeckers, pheasants, kingfishers and barbets, supplemented by a number of migratory species during the winter months. Besides that, the rivers which flow through the park harbour fish such as trout and mahseer.
Twenty eight species of snakes, 12 species of turtles & tortoises and 9 species of lizards among Reptilia are being recorded from the park. The largest variety of Indian python is also found in Rajaji.
The butterfly fauna of the Park is very rich and represented by as many as 60 species under eight families, out of the known nine families are from the adjoining areas of Garhwal and Kumaon hills of the Himalaya.
Safari Adventure
Both jeep safaris and elephant rides are popular options. Elephant rides of about 2½ hours each are organized by the park authorities. Drive your own vehicles or rent one from Haridwar or Rishikesh. A jeep safari into the ineermost parts of the park can be a wholesome experience loaded with excitement and rich sightings.
What more to look out for in Rajaji
Chandi Devi mandir: Neighbouring the Park is the Neel Parvat. Perched atop this hill is the Chandi Devi Mandir. Pay obeisance to the lord and refreshen your spirits with the enchanting view of the entire Haridwar city.
Haridwar: For Hindu pilgrims this place needs no introduction. A 9 km drive from Rajaji will bring you to one of the most visited religious seat of Hinduism. The evening aarti at Har-ki-Pauri, the main ghat, is a must-see.
Rishikesh: 40 km from Rajaji is the international favorite amongst adventure enthusiasts. Rishikesh is known for its trekking and white-water rafting expeditions and a solace for peace-seekers.
Dehra Dun: Be it the cycling tours, the languid saunterings, the picnics by the hot springs, Dehra Dun (at 60 km) is fun unlimited.
How to reach there
Rajaji is accessible through different gates. The Ramgarh Gate and Mohand Gate are within 25 km of Dehradun, while the Motichur, Ranipur and Chilla Gates are just about 9 km from Haridwar. Kunao Gate is 6 km from Rishikesh, and Laldhang gate is 25 km from Kotdwar. It is a straight route from Delhi along the NH58 via Meerut and Haridwar. There are frequent bus services from Delhi's ISBT. Nearest airport is 40 km away at Jolly Grant, Dehra Dun. Railheads can be reached at Haridwar (9 km).
Ideal time to visit: The Park is open from mid-Nov to mid-Jun. But high summers are the best time to go.
Accommodation options
Within Rajaji are nine forest resthouses, some of which are around 100 years old. Chilla has, in addition, a tourist complex operated by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam. Staying outside the park, at budget to mid-range and even luxury hotels and tourist complexes in Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun, can be a better option, while you make day trips to the park.
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