Uttaranchal State Guide
The Rajaji National Park was formed by amalgamating 3 major sanctuaries, Chila, Motichur and Rajaji sanctuary. The new park was named after C. Rajagopalachari, second Governor-general of independent India.
Location : Rajaji National Park is located in Garhwal district of Uttaranchal.
Major Wildlife Species : Elephants, Tigers, Leopards and Deers.
Best Time to Visit : November to June, as sanctuary remains closed for remaining year.
A Glance on Rajaji National Park
Spread in an area of more than 800 sq km, at the foothills of Shiwaliks, Rajaji National Park encompasses 3 wildlife sanctuaries. In 1983, the sanctuaries of Rajaji, Chila and Motichur were amalgamated into one, and named as Rajaji National Park, after freedom fighter, C. Rajgopalachari, popularly known as Rajaji. The park is known for its diverse vegetations and wildlife population. The forests cover include broadleaved deciduous forests, riverine vegetation, grasslands, and pine forests in the upper reaches.
Attractions in the Park
Wildlife Attractions : There are more than 30 species of mammals in the park. The major attraction of the park are elephants and leopards, with a handful population of tigers. One may watch a herd of elephants roaming majestically in the jungle or even a tiger picking its way through the tall grass or may find oneself excited by wildlife of many kinds including leopard, jungle cat, Himalayan yellow throated marten, sambar, cheetal, barking deer, wild boar, sloth bear, langoor, ghoral, monitor lizard, python, civet and even king-cobra.
Avian Attractions : The park becomes a home for migratory birds during winters, ie December to February. Apart from migratory birds, there are many residential birds here. The major avian species here are Pea fowl, Jungle fowl, Kaleej pheasant, Hornbil, Woodpecker, Thrushes, Kingfishers, Parakeets, Warbler, Barbet, Finch, Indian roller and Oriola. In winters, a large variety of fascinating migratory birds play in the azure waters of the river Ganga, which flows through the park. Both the rivers of the area, Ganga and Song shelters various species of fish like Mahaseer, Kalabanse, Goonch, Chilwa and Trout.
The Park Safari
Its important to take permissions from the forest department before entering the premises of park. The park can be best viewed on an Elephant safari. Alternatively one can also take Jeep safari to see the park.
How to Reach
The sanctuary can be reached by road from major cities of Uttaranchal. The nearest railway station is Haridwar, 8 Km away. Other major distances from the park are: Haridwar 8 Km, Rishikesh 14 km, Dehradun 25 Km and New Delhi 230 Km. Jolly Grant airport, Dehradun, is 30 Km from the park.
Where to stay
A range of tourist accommodation is available at Rajaji's main campsite. There are Forest rest houses in the surrounding areas of the park. Accommodation is also available in private lodges and resorts outside the Park.
