Rajaji National Park – Complete Safari & Travel Guide (2026 Edition)

1. Introduction to Rajaji National Park

• Located in Uttarakhand (Haridwar, Dehradun & Pauri districts)
• Declared National Park in 1983
• Merged into Rajaji Tiger Reserve in 2015
• Famous for wild elephant sightings
• Close to Haridwar & Rishikesh

1. Location & How to Reach

• Delhi to Haridwar (~5–6 hrs by road)
• Delhi to Dehradun (~6–7 hrs by road)
• Nearest Railway Stations: Haridwar & Dehradun
• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant (Dehradun)

1. Safari Zones & Entry Gates

• Chilla Range – Most popular for elephants
• Motichur Range – Near Rishikesh
• Jhilmil & Gohri Ranges – Grassland ecosystem
• Limited permits per range

1. Safari Timings (Seasonal)

• Open: November – June
• Monsoon closure: July – October
• Morning & Evening safari slots
• Range-specific rules may apply

1. Safari Types

• Jeep Safari (6 seater)
• Private & Shared options
• No canter system like Ranthambore

1. Safari Booking Process

• Online booking via Uttarakhand Forest Department
• Advance booking window applies
• On-the-spot booking possible in low season
• Mandatory ID proof required

1. Tiger & Elephant Population Update (2026)

• Important North Indian elephant corridor
• Tiger presence across ranges
• NTCA census reference
• Managed under Project Tiger

1. Wildlife Sightings

• Asian Elephant, Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear
• Spotted Deer, Sambar, Wild Boar
• 300+ bird species
• Python, Cobra, Monitor Lizard

1. Best Time to Visit

• Nov–Feb: Cool weather & birding
• Mar–June: Best elephant & tiger sightings
• Closed during monsoon

1. Attractions Inside Rajaji

• Chilla Dam
• Watchtowers & birding spots
• Forest rest houses

1. Nearby Attractions

• Haridwar
• Rishikesh
• Dehradun
• Mussoorie (extension option)

1. Accommodation Options

• Eco camps near Chilla
• Haridwar & Rishikesh resorts
• Budget guesthouses near gates

1. Safari Tips

• Choose Chilla range in summer
• Book early morning safari
• Avoid peak religious weekends
• Carry binoculars

1. Rajaji vs Jim Corbett Comparison

• Tiger density comparison
• Elephant sightings comparison
• Crowd levels
• Budget friendliness

1. FAQs

• Is Rajaji good for tiger sightings?
• Which range is best?
• How many safaris should I book?
• Can Rajaji be combined with Haridwar trip?

1. Sample 2-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Morning safari + Haridwar Ganga Aarti
• Day 2: Early safari + Rishikesh visit