Rajaji National Park is distinct for its pristine scenic beauty and rich bio-diversity. A paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, the wildlife of the park is blessed with elephants, tigers, leopards, deers and ghorals as its best known life forms. Three sanctuaries in the Uttarakhand, Shivaliks – Rajaji, Motichur and Chila were amalgamated into a large protected area and named Rajaji National Park in the year 1983 after the famous freedom fighter Late Sri C. Rajgopalachari; popularly known as “Rajaji”.
Rajaji National Park is accessible from Haridwar, Garhwal and Dehradun via many buses and taxis. Dehradun is just 21 km away from the park whereas Haridwar is around 43 km. You can also take a taxi from New Delhi which is around 223 km from the park and 6 hours to reach here. The nearest railhead and airport are in Dehradun and taxis and buses are easily available to take tourists to Rajaji National Park.
The best time to visit Rajaji National Park is from 15th November to 15th June as the park is closed in the other months. April - June are a bit warm; however, this is a better period to spot animals. It is advised to visit in the first half of the day to be able to explore the most of the park. Also, during this time, the atmosphere remains pleasantly cool or moderate all through the day. Winter evenings would bring about a drop in the mercury level, so appropriate clothing is much recommended. Monsoons, on the other hand, are deemed unsuitable for tourism, and the park remains closed until November.
Encompassing the Shivalik mountain ranges, Rajaji National Park is abundantly rich in flora and fauna and proves a great holiday destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Famous for its wildlife, especially for tigers and Elephants, Rajaji National Park has recently received the status of a Tiger Reserve by the Government of India. Named in the honour or C. Rajagopalchari, this national park spreads over 3 districts of Uttarakhand including Dehradun, Haridwar and Pauri Garhwal. This area is also enriched with valuable fossils which date back to as old as 10 million years old. The forest area is popular for Sal, Teak and other shrubs. You should explore the wilderness and rich diversity of Himalayan lives here with a Jeep Safari or Elephant Safari organised by the Forest Department, the 34 km jungle track is a major attraction here. You can spot Asian Elephants, Tiger and King Cobra, Panther, Bear, Chital, Sambar, Wild Boar, Kakar, Python, Monitor Lizard, Wild Cats.
You can also spot many birds including many species of migratory birds, especially after monsoons.