Rajaji National Park

Rajaji Tiger Reserve (820 sq km) spans Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal districts, protecting a critical elephant corridor with 500+ elephants — one of the most important populations in India. The Chilla zone near Haridwar is most accessible. The park also has increasing tiger numbers, leopards, sloth bears, and 400+ bird species. The adjacent Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve is a Ramsar-listed wetland with Gangetic dolphins.

Places to See
• Chilla Zone (15 km from Haridwar — elephants, tiger, leopard)
• Motichur Zone (Rishikesh side, 10 km)
• Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve (Ramsar wetland, Gangetic dolphin, migratory birds)
• Ganga Canal Drive (kingfisher, crocodile watching)
• Night Safari — Chilla Zone (advance permit required)
• Elephant Herd Sightings (500+ elephants, one of India's most important populations)

Best Time
November–June. February–April optimal (dry vegetation improves sightlines). Jhilmil Jheel open year-round. Chilla Zone closed July–October.

How to Reach
Chilla Zone: Haridwar (15 km, ~30 min). Motichur Zone: Rishikesh (10 km). Rail: Haridwar Junction. Air: Jolly Grant, Dehradun (30 km).

Things to Do
• Jeep safari for elephant, tiger, and leopard
• 400+ species birdwatching
• Night safari in Chilla Zone
• Jhilmil Jheel wetland visit for Gangetic dolphin
• Photography at the Chilla–Haridwar elephant crossing

Tips
Book permits at uttarakhandtourism.gov.in. 6 AM Chilla Zone safari gives the best elephant sightings. Carry 300 mm+ telephoto. Never drive through Motichur forest road at night — elephant movement is unpredictable.

The best time to visit Rajaji National Park depends on the experience you seek.