Rajaji National Park
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.
