Planning a trip from Delhi to Rajaji National Park for a jungle safari? Rajaji is one of the popular wildlife destinations in Uttarakhand and can be reached from Delhi by road, train, or air.
For most travellers, the road journey from Delhi takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic, the route, and your safari entry zone. If you plan the trip properly, you can combine your journey with a safari and explore the forest landscapes around Chilla, Motichur, Ranipur, Jhilmil Jheel, Mohand, and other safari areas.
In this guide, you will find the Rajaji National Park distance from Delhi, route, travel time, transport options, and a practical safari plan.
Delhi to Rajaji National Park Distance
The distance from Delhi to the Rajaji National Park region is approximately 240 to 250 km, depending on which entry gate or safari zone you choose.
The exact distance can vary because Rajaji has multiple entry points. For example, Chilla and Motichur are approached from the Haridwar side, while Mohand is more convenient for travellers approaching from Dehradun.
| Route | Approx. Distance | Approx. Travel Time by Car |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Haridwar | 220 to 240 km | 4 to 5 hours |
| Delhi to Chilla Gate | 240 to 250 km | 5 to 6 hours |
| Haridwar to Chilla | Around 12 to 15 km | 20 to 30 minutes |
| Haridwar to Motichur | Around 8 to 10 km | 15 to 20 minutes |
| Delhi to Dehradun | Around 240 km | Around 3 hours |
Your final travel time will depend on traffic, road conditions, and your selected safari zone.
Best Route from Delhi to Rajaji National Park
The commonly used road route from Delhi towards the Haridwar side is:
Delhi → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Roorkee → Haridwar → Rajaji National Park
If you are planning a safari from the Chilla zone, you can continue from Haridwar towards Chilla.
For Motichur, the approach is also from the Haridwar side. If you are staying in Dehradun or travelling through Dehradun, Mohand can be a more suitable entry area depending on the safari availability.
Before leaving Delhi, check your selected gate and safari reporting point carefully. Rajaji is spread across a large area, so choosing the correct entry point can save both time and unnecessary travel.
You can compare the different entry areas in our detailed guide to Rajaji National Park safari zones.
How to Travel from Delhi to Rajaji National Park
There are several ways to travel from Delhi to Rajaji National Park.
1. By Car
Travelling by car is one of the most convenient options, especially if you are travelling with family or friends.
The Delhi to Rajaji journey generally takes around 5 to 6 hours in normal conditions. However, traffic around Delhi, Meerut, Roorkee, and Haridwar can increase the journey time.
If your safari is scheduled early in the morning, it is better to reach the area one day before rather than driving from Delhi on the same morning.
2. By Train
You can take a train from Delhi to Haridwar or Dehradun, depending on your selected safari zone.
Haridwar is particularly convenient for visitors planning to explore the Chilla or Motichur side of Rajaji. From Haridwar, you can use a taxi or local transport to reach your accommodation or safari reporting point.
3. By Air
The nearest major airport for visitors travelling towards the Rajaji region is Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun.
Flying can save time if you are travelling from a distant city before continuing towards your selected Rajaji safari area.
Which Rajaji Safari Zone Should You Choose?
Rajaji National Park has several safari areas and entry points. The suitable zone depends on your travel route, accommodation, safari availability, and the type of experience you are looking for.
Some commonly discussed areas include:
- Chilla
- Motichur
- Ranipur
- Jhilmil Jheel
- Mohand
- Gohari and Ramgarh areas
Instead of choosing a zone only because it is described as the “best”, check the current access conditions, safari timings, distance from your hotel, and availability.
For a detailed comparison, visit our Rajaji Jungle Safari Zones guide.
Best Rajaji Safari Plan from Delhi
If you are travelling from Delhi, a 2-day trip is more comfortable than trying to complete everything in one day.
Day 1: Delhi to Rajaji National Park
Start your journey from Delhi early in the morning.
Suggested route:
Delhi → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Roorkee → Haridwar → Your Safari Area
Depending on traffic and breaks, you can reach the Rajaji region by afternoon.
After checking into your hotel or accommodation, use the remaining time to rest and prepare for your safari the next morning.
If you have an evening safari available, you can consider it depending on the current safari schedule and your selected zone.
Day 2: Morning Safari
Start your day early and reach the safari reporting point before the scheduled entry time.
A morning safari allows you to explore the forest during the early hours when the surroundings are generally cooler and quieter.
After the safari, have breakfast and relax before starting your return journey to Delhi.
If you want to stay longer, you can also plan another safari subject to availability.
Can You Visit Rajaji National Park from Delhi in One Day?
Yes, a one-day trip is possible, but it can be tiring.
The biggest challenge is the travel time. Delhi to the Rajaji region can take around 5 to 6 hours, and a safari itself requires additional time for reporting and travel to the entry gate.
For this reason, a one-day trip works better when your safari timing and transportation are planned carefully.
For families, first-time visitors, or travellers who want a relaxed experience, staying overnight near the selected safari zone is more practical.
Best Time to Visit Rajaji National Park from Delhi
Rajaji has seasonal safari access, and opening periods can vary by zone.
Traditionally, several core safari areas operate during the November to June period, while some areas can have different opening schedules.
Because safari timings and zone access can change, always confirm the current season before making your travel plans.
You can also check our Rajaji National Park safari booking information before finalising your journey.
Rajaji National Park Safari Price
Safari charges depend on the selected zone, safari type, date, and other applicable charges.
Instead of relying on an old price mentioned in a blog post, check the latest information before making a payment.
For current planning information, visit our Rajaji National Park ticket price and entry fees guide.
What to Carry for a Rajaji Safari
Before travelling from Delhi, keep these essentials with you:
- Valid identity proof
- Safari booking confirmation
- Comfortable clothes
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Drinking water
- Camera or mobile phone
- Light jacket during cooler months
- Comfortable shoes
- Any required personal medicines
It is also important to follow the instructions provided by the safari authorities and your guide.
Final Rajaji National Park Travel Plan from Delhi
For a comfortable trip, this simple plan works well:
Day 1:
Delhi → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Roorkee → Haridwar → Rajaji area → Hotel
Day 2:
Early morning safari → Breakfast → Relax → Return to Delhi
If you have limited time, you can consider a one-day trip, but an overnight stay gives you more flexibility and reduces the pressure of travelling several hours before or after a safari.
Rajaji National Park is accessible from Delhi and can be included in a short Uttarakhand wildlife trip. The most important step is to select the right safari zone, check the current opening schedule, and plan your accommodation close to the entry point.
Ready to plan your safari? Check the Rajaji National Park safari zones, review the latest ticket and entry fee information, and then enquire about safari booking.