Rajaji Tiger Reserve: Booking Your Jungle Safari Experience
Rajaji Tiger Reserve
Rajaji Tiger Reserve is one of Uttarakhand’s most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries located in Haridwar, Dehradun, and Rishikesh. The reserve is a vital habitat that houses incredible wildlife species. You’ll find majestic Tigers, Asian Elephants, and the elusive Himalayan Black Bear here. Our network of safari routes gives you unmatched opportunities to see these magnificent creatures in their natural home.
Your visit to Rajaji National Park needs proper planning. You’ll need to secure entry permits and pick the right safari zone. We’ll help you through the complete booking process and guide your choice between Chilla, Motichur, Ranipur, and Chaukham zones. Our guide covers everything about safari timings and wildlife viewing opportunities. You’ll also learn about the rich flora and fauna that makes this park special.
History and Significance
The magnificent Rajaji reserve came into existence in 1983 through the merger of three wildlife sanctuaries – Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla. The park covers 820.42 square kilometers and bears the name of C. Rajgopalachari (Rajaji), the distinguished freedom fighter and India’s first Governor General. The reserve reached its most important milestone in 2015 and became Uttarakhand’s second tiger reserve after the renowned Jim Corbett National Park.
Ecological Importance of Rajaji Tiger Reserve
The reserve stands as a crucial ecological landmark that defines India’s northwestern boundary for Asian elephants and Bengal tigers. Its strategic location between the Shivalik ranges and Indo-Gangetic plains creates a remarkable ecosystem. The reserve’s unique positioning supports these distinct habitat types:
- Sal Forest dominance
- Western Gangetic Moist forests
- Northern dry Deciduous forests
- Khair-Sissoo forests
- Low Alluvial Savannah Woodlands
Key Attractions Of Rajaji Tiger Reserve
The reserve hosts an extraordinary collection of wildlife and serves as home to 49 species of mammals. Visitors can spot the Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, and the Himalayan Black Bear in their natural habitat. The sanctuary shelters more than 315 bird species and stands as a significant stopover point for birds migrating across the Himalayas.
The holy River Ganges meanders through the park for 24 kilometers and creates a unique riverine ecosystem. This ecosystem supports diverse aquatic life forms. King Cobras, Pythons, and Common Kraits represent the park’s reptilian inhabitants and contribute to its rich biodiversity. The reserve plays an essential role in the broader Terai-arc landscape and forms part of the Rajaji-Corbett Tiger Conservation Unit that extends across 7,500 square kilometers.
Biodiversity and Wildlife of Rajaji Tiger Reserve
The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including:
Mammals: Apart from tigers, the reserve hosts, leopards, deer, and the endangered Asian elephant.
Birds: Over 315 species of birds, including the Great Hornbill and the Himalayan Pied Kingfisher, make it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Various species of snakes, lizards, and frogs inhabit the reserve.
Rajaji National Park Safari Booking Process
Online vs. offline booking
You can book your safari experience in two easy ways. Our online system lets you book permits up to June 2024, with 30 permits for morning sessions and 30 permits for evening sessions. You can also get permits right at the tourism zone gates if you prefer the traditional way. Peak seasons need advance booking to guarantee your spot.Entry Permits and Fees
The sanctuary maintains different entry fees for Indian and foreign visitors. Here’s what you need to know about our fee structure:| Category | Indian Nationals | Foreign Nationals |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Fee | ₹150 per person | ₹600 per person |
| Vehicle Entry | ₹250 | ₹500 |
| Camera (Still) | Free | ₹50 |
| Video Camera | ₹2,500 | ₹5,000 |
Vehicle and Guide Arrangements
Our Gypsy safaris offer comfortable seating that fits up to 6 people in each vehicle. Indian Nationals pay ₹3,000-3,500 per Gypsy, while Foreign Nationals are charged ₹4,000-4,500 per Gypsy. Safari visits require a mandatory local guide. The guide fees range from ₹600 for regular guides to ₹1,500 for experienced wildlife experts. Each safari adventure lasts 2-3 hours and takes you through scenic river beds and rolling terrain. We run two daily safari sessions:- Morning: 6 AM to 9 AM
- Evening: 3 PM to 6 PM
Exploring Different Zones
Rajaji Tiger Reserve’s safari zones provide unique wildlife experiences in a variety of terrains. Each zone stands out with its own special characteristics that make wildlife viewing memorable.
Chilla Zone
The Chilla Zone sits perfectly between Haridwar and Rishikesh. A 36-kilometer circular track winds through dense sal forests and open chaurs (grasslands). Nature lovers can spot Asian Elephants, Tigers, and Spotted Deer in this diverse landscape. The Mundal Sot track’s varied terrain makes it a perfect spot to photograph Great Hornbills and Pied Hornbills.
Motichur Zone
The magnificent sal forests of Motichur Zone feature a 25-kilometer safari route that winds through the wilderness. Leopards make this zone their favorite hideout and visitors often spot these mysterious cats lounging in dense bushes. Small herds of elephants roam the area during summer months, while the zone’s ficus trees attract numerous birds. Our expert naturalists help visitors identify various species including Woodpeckers, Hornbills, and Barbets that feed among the branches.
Ranipur and Chaukham Zones
The Ranipur Zone spans 25 kilometers in a variety of terrain, surrounded by gentle rolling hills and grasslands. Visitors can spot:
- Spotted Deer and Sambhar Deer roaming open clearings
- Nilgai and Barking Deer hiding in dense foliage
- Several owl species nesting in the mixed forest
This zone’s unique landscape makes it a perfect spot for wildlife photography, especially during early morning safaris. Our expert guides know the best spots where leopards often rest on ancient walls, giving photographers excellent chances to capture stunning shots.
Rajaji National Park : Quick information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Uttarakhand, India |
| Area | 820.5 km² (316.8 sq mi) |
| Established | 1983 |
| Named after | C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji) |
| Tiger Reserve Status | Second tiger reserve in Uttarakhand, 48th in India (approved in 2015) |
| Governing body | Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Uttarakhand |
Visitor Information
Safari Experience: Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris and elephant rides to explore the reserve’s wilderness. The best time to visit is from November to June, avoiding the monsoon season when the park is closed.
Entry Points: The reserve has multiple entry points, including Haridwar, Dehradun, and Rishikesh, making it accessible for tourists.
Accommodation: Various lodging options are available, ranging from forest rest houses to luxury resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.
Plan your visit to Rajaji Tiger Reserve and experience the thrill of encountering wildlife in their natural habitat. Book your safari today and be a part of the conservation journey.
Enhancing Your Safari Experience
Best times for wildlife viewing
Wildlife activity peaks during the winter months (October to February) with temperatures between 8°C to 20°C. Our guides take visitors to key spots where animals gather near water sources. Tigers and leopards appear frequently during early morning safaris (6 AM to 9 AM). The evening drives let visitors watch elephants and deer species roam their natural habitat.| Season | Wildlife Highlights | Temperature Range |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Oct-Feb) | Tigers, Elephants, Migratory Birds | 8°C – 20°C |
| Summer (Mar-Jun) | Animals near water bodies | 20°C – 40°C |
| Post-Monsoon (Oct-Nov) | Active wildlife, lush landscapes | 15°C – 25°C |
Bird watching opportunities
Our reserve serves as home to a remarkable 315 bird species, with 151 permanent residents and 87 seasonal visitors. The reserve’s most treasured winged inhabitants include:- Great Pied Hornbill
- Golden-fronted Leafbird
- Crested Kingfisher
- Gray-headed Fish Eagle
- Blue-bearded Bee-eater
Cultural and historical sites nearby
The location sits perfectly near Haridwar’s rich cultural heritage. Your wildlife adventure pairs naturally with the nearby spiritual sites. Ancient temples and ghats along the Ganges create a unique blend of cultural immersion close to our wildlife zones. The pristine Himalayan foothills let visitors experience both natural splendor and cultural heritage seamlessly.Rajaji Tiger Reserve Highlight
Ecological Significance of the Shivalik Range
Emphasize the reserve’s location in the Shivalik range, which serves as a transition zone between the temperate western Himalayas and the central Himalayas. This unique positioning enhances the species diversity and ecological importance of the area.
Rich Biodiversity : Rajaji Tiger Reserve
Emphasize the reserve’s location in the Shivalik range, which serves as a transition zone between the temperate western Himalayas and the central Himalayas. This unique positioning enhances the species diversity and ecological importance of the area.
Birdwatching Paradise
With over 315 species of birds, including the Great Hornbill and Pied Kingfisher, Rajaji Tiger Reserve is a significant birding area. This aspect can attract birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts looking for a unique experience.
Cultural and Historical Context of Rajaji Tiger Reserve
Discuss the historical significance of the reserve, named after C. Rajagopalachari, the first Governor-General of independent India. His influence in the establishment of the sanctuary adds a rich cultural narrative to the reserve’s history.
Conservation and Eco-Tourism Efforts
Highlight the reserve’s commitment to eco-tourism and sustainable practices, such as promoting recycling, energy efficiency, and water conservation. This can appeal to environmentally conscious travelers.
Safari Experience in Rajaji Tiger Reserve
Describe the unique safari experiences available, such as jeep
and elephant safaris, which offer visitors a chance to explore the
reserve’s wilderness and observe wildlife up close. Provide tips
on the best times for safaris to enhance visitor experience.
Map Of Rajaji National Park
How to reach in Rajaji Tiger Reserve
By Air
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in
Dehradun is the closest airport, located
approximately 35 km from the reserve. It offers daily flights from Delhi, making it a quick and efficient way to reach the reserve.
By Rail
Nearest Railway Stations: The closest railway
station is Haridwar, about 8-9 km from the
reserve. Other nearby stations include
Dehradun (24 km) and Rishikesh (14-18 km), all of which are well connected to major cities
across India through the Indian Railway
network.
By Road
Accessibility: Rajaji Tiger Reserve is wellconnected by road to major cities like
Delhi, Chandigarh, Jaipur, and Lucknow.
The reserve is about 230 km from Delhi,
which takesapproximately 5 hours by
road. Public and private buses, as well as
taxis, are available from these cities to
Haridwar and Rishikesh, which are close