Stretching across the Shivalik foothills near Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun, Rajaji National Park (now Rajaji Tiger Reserve) is one of India's most accessible wilderness experiences. Covering over 800 sq km where the Ganga carves through forested hills, Rajaji represents the northwestern limit of the Asian elephant's range — and these gentle giants are its most iconic residents.
Named after C. Rajagopalachari, free India's last Governor-General, the park hosts a thriving population of elephants, alongside tigers, leopards, sloth bears, goral, sambar, and king cobras. Its bird list exceeds 300 species, with winter migrants flocking to the Ganga's banks — great pied hornbills, fire-tailed sunbirds, and rusty-cheeked scimitar babblers delight birders.
Safari access is primarily through the Chilla, Jhilmil, Motichur, and Ranipur ranges. Chilla, just 8 km from Rishikesh, is the most popular gate, offering jeep safaris through sal forests, grasslands, and dry riverbeds where elephant herds often cross. The Jhilmil Jheel conservation area near Haridwar protects the rare swamp deer (barasingha) in its wetland habitat.
Rajaji's biggest advantage is convenience — you can combine a morning safari with an evening Ganga aarti at Haridwar or yoga in Rishikesh. The park remains open from mid-November to mid-June, with March to June offering peak sightings as wildlife concentrates near water.
Morning safaris in winter can be cold and misty, so carry layers; summer visits demand sun protection and hydration. Forest rest houses and eco-resorts near Chilla offer immersive stays. Add a wild chapter to your spiritual Uttarakhand journey — book your Rajaji safari with UttarakhandTours.in.