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Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park is a national park located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The park covers an area of 820 square kilometers and was established in 1983 by merging three wildlife sanctuaries, namely, Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla. The park is named after C. Rajagopalachari, who was a prominent freedom fighter and the last Governor-General of India.
Rajaji National Park is situated at the foothills of the Shivalik range of the Himalayas and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park has a rich biodiversity and is home to several rare and endangered species such as Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, leopards, Himalayan black bears, sloth bears, and many more.
The Rajaji National Park was initially established as a game reserve in 1948 to protect the endangered Bengal tiger. In 1983, the park was converted into a national park and named after C. Rajagopalachari, who was a prominent freedom fighter and the first Indian Governor-General of India.
Let’s explore
Wildlife
Rajaji National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife. The park has over 23 species of mammals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and sloth bears. There are also over 315 species of birds, including kingfishers, woodpeckers, pheasants, and barbets. The park is also home to several reptiles, including snakes and lizards.
Sightings
Rajaji National Park is known for its diverse range of wildlife and bird species. Visitors to the park can expect to have sightings of several rare and endangered species such as Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, leopards, Himalayan black bears, sloth bears, and several species of deer such as sambar, chital, and barking deer.
The park is also home to several species of primates such as langurs and macaques, and reptiles such as snakes and lizards. Visitors can also spot several species of birds such as kingfishers, woodpeckers, pheasants, barbets, and several species of migratory birds that visit the park during the winter months.
One of the main attractions of Rajaji National Park is the opportunity to see wild elephants in their natural habitat. The park is home to over 600 elephants, and visitors can see them during the early morning and late afternoon safaris.
Another popular sighting in the park is the Bengal tiger. Although the tiger population in the park is not as high as other national parks in India, visitors have reported sightings of tigers during their safaris.
Visitors to Rajaji National Park can also see several species of deer, including the sambar, chital, and barking deer. The park is also home to several species of monkeys, including the Rhesus macaque and the langur.
Safari
Rajaji National Park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the park and its wildlife through jeep safaris and elephant safaris. Both safaris are popular options among visitors, and each offers a unique experience.
Jeep safaris are the most popular way to explore Rajaji National Park. Visitors can rent a jeep with a trained driver and a guide to take them on a tour of the park. The jeeps can accommodate up to six people and are equipped with a roof to protect visitors from the sun and rain. The jeep safaris are available in the early morning and late afternoon, which are the best times to spot wildlife.
Elephant safaris are another unique way to explore the park. Visitors can ride on the back of an elephant and go on a guided tour of the park. The elephant safaris are available in the early morning and late afternoon and offer visitors a different perspective of the park's wildlife. It is important to note that elephant safaris can be limited, and it is advisable to book in advance.
Both jeep and elephant safaris are accompanied by trained guides who are knowledgeable about the park's wildlife and can help visitors spot animals and birds. The guides can also provide information about the park's history and geography.
It is important to note that visitors are not allowed to get off the jeep or elephant during the safari, and they must follow the park's rules and regulations. Visitors should also be respectful of the park's wildlife and environment and not disturb or harm any animals or plants during their visit.
Things To Do Around
There are several things to do around Rajaji National Park that visitors can enjoy during their stay. Here are some popular activities:
- Visit the Haridwar: Haridwar is a spiritual city located near Rajaji National Park. Visitors can take a dip in the holy Ganges river, visit ancient temples, and explore the city's culture and history.
- Explore Rishikesh: Rishikesh is a famous spiritual destination located near Rajaji National Park. Visitors can indulge in adventure activities such as river rafting, bungee jumping, and camping. The city is also home to several ancient temples and ashrams.
- Visit the Rajaji Tiger Reserve: The Rajaji Tiger Reserve is an adjacent forest reserve located near Rajaji National Park. Visitors can take a safari tour of the reserve and spot several exotic species of wildlife.
- Trekking: There are several trekking routes in and around Rajaji National Park that visitors can explore. The treks offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
- Visit the Chilla Dam: The Chilla Dam is a popular picnic spot located near the park. Visitors can enjoy a picnic with a scenic view of the river and the dam.
- Wildlife Photography: Rajaji National Park is a photographer's paradise, and visitors can capture stunning shots of the park's wildlife, flora, and fauna.
How to Reach?
Rajaji National Park is located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India and can be reached by different modes of transportation. Here are some ways to reach the park:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Rajaji National Park is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 20 km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India, and visitors can take a taxi or hire a car from the airport to reach the park.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Rajaji National Park is Haridwar Railway Station, which is about 24 km away. The railway station is well-connected to major cities in India, and visitors can take a taxi or hire a car from the railway station to reach the park.
- By Road: Rajaji National Park is well-connected to major cities in India by road. Visitors can take a bus or hire a taxi from nearby cities such as Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh to reach the park. The park is located on the Dehradun-Haridwar Highway (NH-72).
- Self-drive: Visitors can also reach Rajaji National Park by driving their own vehicle. The park is about 230 km from Delhi, and visitors can take the Delhi-Haridwar Highway (NH-58) to reach the park.
Best Season
The best season to travel to Rajaji National Park is from November to June. During this period, the weather in the park is pleasant, and visitors can enjoy wildlife sightings and outdoor activities such as jungle safaris, bird watching, trekking, and nature walks.
The winter season from November to February is the best time for wildlife sightings as the animals come out in search of water and food. The weather during this period is also pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
The summer season from March to June is the best time for bird watching as several migratory bird species visit the park during this period. The weather during this period can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. However, the park's vegetation is lush and green, making it a beautiful sight to behold.
The monsoon season from July to September is not a recommended time to travel to Rajaji National Park as heavy rainfall and landslides can make it unsafe for visitors. The park remains closed during this period.
Who Can Travel?
Anyone can travel to Rajaji National Park, as it is open to all visitors. However, visitors need to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure their safety and the park's conservation.
Children below five years of age are not allowed to take the jungle safari. Pregnant women, people with heart conditions, and people with other medical conditions that can be aggravated by a bumpy ride should avoid the safari.
Visitors should also adhere to the park's rules and regulations, such as not littering, not feeding the animals, and not disturbing the park's ecosystem. The park's authorities conduct regular checks to ensure visitors follow these guidelines.
Overall, Rajaji National Park welcomes visitors of all ages and nationalities who are interested in exploring the park's wildlife, flora, and fauna, as long as they follow the rules and regulations and respect the park's conservation efforts.
When to Do the Bookings?
It is recommended to do the booking for Rajaji National Park well in advance to ensure availability, especially during the peak season from November to June. Visitors can book their safari and accommodation through the official website of the park or through various travel agencies and online booking portals.
The park authorities open the bookings for jungle safaris and accommodation 30 days in advance, and visitors can book their slots online or at the park office. It is advisable to book at least a month in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the peak season or on weekends.
Visitors should also keep in mind that the park remains closed during the monsoon season from July to September, and they should plan their visit accordingly.
Stay Facility
Rajaji National Park is a popular wildlife sanctuary located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The park is spread over an area of 820 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and more.
There are several stay facilities available in and around Rajaji National Park, including:
- Forest Rest Houses: There are several forest rest houses located within the park, which can be booked through the forest department.
- Government Guest Houses: The government also operates several guest houses in the area, which can be booked through the state tourism department.
- Private Resorts: There are several private resorts located near the park, which offer comfortable stay options.
- Camping: Camping is also allowed in designated areas within the park, and several tour operators offer camping packages.
It's always best to plan and book your stay in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
How to Do the Bookings?
The safari bookings for Rajaji National Park can be done through the official website of the Uttarakhand Forest Department or through a travel agent. Here are the steps to book a safari in Rajaji National Park:
- Visit the official website of the Uttarakhand Forest Department or contact a travel agent to book your safari.
- Choose the safari type that you want to go for, such as jeep safari or elephant safari.
- Select the date and time of the safari according to your convenience, keeping in mind the park timings and season.
- Provide the necessary details such as name, address, identity proof, and number of people in the group.
- Make the payment for the safari booking either online or through a travel agent.
- After the booking is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email with details of the safari and instructions to follow.
- On the day of the safari, reach the designated safari gate on time and carry your identification proof with you.
It's recommended to book the safari in advance to ensure availability, especially during the peak season. Also, follow the rules and regulations of the park to have a safe and enjoyable safari experience.
Itinerary
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DAY 1
Airport to Rajaji national Park
You will arrive at either the airport or the railway station, where you will be picked up by a private transfer and taken to your hotel in Rajaji National Park. After checking in and freshening up, you will have lunch and then proceed for the first jungle safari in the park. Rajaji National Park is known for its diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and several species of birds. During the safari, you will have the opportunity to witness the park's wildlife in their natural habitat. After the safari, you will return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
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DAY 2
Rajaji national park
You will start your day early with a morning jungle safari, where you can spot some of the early risers of the park. After the safari, you will return to the hotel for breakfast, followed by a guided nature walk. The nature walk will take you through the dense forest, where you will learn about the different species of trees, plants, and animals that call the park their home. After lunch, you can relax at the hotel or take part in some of the activities offered, such as bird watching or a visit to the nearby village. In the evening, you will have dinner at the hotel and an overnight stay.
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DAY 3
Rajaji National park
Today, you will go for another jungle safari in the morning, where you can continue to explore the park's wildlife. After the safari, you will return to the hotel for breakfast, followed by a birding tour. Rajaji National Park is home to over 300 species of birds, and you will have the opportunity to spot several of them during the tour. After lunch, you can relax at the hotel or take part in some of the activities offered. In the evening, you will have dinner at the hotel and an overnight stay.
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DAY 4
Transfer to Airport
You will start your day early with a final jungle safari before breakfast. After breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and be transferred to either the airport or the railway station for your onward journey. This marks the end of your 3 nights & 4 days itinerary at Rajaji National Park, filled with exciting wildlife experiences and unforgettable memories.
know your safari
Each day in the forest during a safari in India can be different depending on the national park or reserve you are visiting and the type of safari you have chosen. However, here are some typical activities you can expect during a safari in India:
Early morning safari
Most national parks offer an early morning safari, which starts before sunrise. During this time, you have a higher chance of spotting wildlife as they are active during the cooler hours of the day.
Breakfast
After the morning safari, you will return to your accommodation for breakfast.
Leisure time
You can use this time to rest, explore the surrounding area, or participate in any additional activities offered by the park.
Afternoon safari
In the afternoon, you can go for another safari to explore different parts of the national park and spot more wildlife.
Evening activities
Once the safari is over, you can enjoy a leisurely walk or go birdwatching. Some national parks also offer cultural programs or documentaries related to wildlife in the evening.
Dinner
You can enjoy a sumptuous dinner at your accommodation, which is usually included in the package.
Note:The schedule may vary depending on the park's timings and the type of safari you choose. Some national parks also offer different types of safaris, such as elephant safaris, canoe safaris, or walking safaris, which may have a different schedule.
Here are some essential things you should pack for a jungle safari:
Clothing
Comfortable and breathable clothing is a must for a jungle safari. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are recommended to protect you from the sun, insects, and thorny bushes. Neutral-colored clothing such as khaki or beige is also recommended to blend in with the surroundings. It's also a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for early morning or late evening safaris when it can get chilly.
Footwear
Closed-toe shoes or boots with good traction are recommended for a jungle safari. Avoid open-toe shoes or sandals as they do not provide adequate protection. It's also a good idea to pack a pair of socks that can keep your feet warm during early morning or late evening safaris.
Insect repellent
A good quality insect repellent is essential to protect you from mosquito bites and other insects.
Sunscreen
The sun can be intense in the jungle, so it's important to pack a sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from sunburn.
Hat or cap
A hat or cap can protect your face and neck from the sun and also help you blend in with the surroundings.
Binoculars
A pair of binoculars can enhance your wildlife viewing experience by allowing you to see animals that are far away.
Camera
A camera is a must to capture the amazing wildlife and landscape of the jungle. Make sure you pack an extra memory card and batteries.
Water bottle and snacks
It's important to stay hydrated during the safari, so pack a water bottle and some snacks such as energy bars or nuts.
First aid kit
Pack a first aid kit with essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers.
Flashlight or headlamp
A flashlight or headlamp can be useful during early morning or late evening safaris and also if you need to walk around in the dark.
Remember to pack light as you will be moving around a lot during the safari. It's also important to check with your tour operator or accommodation provider if they provide any additional items or equipment that you may need during the safari.
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