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Rajaji National Park
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · India

Rajaji National Park

Getting around: The park spans areas around Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh; the Chilla or Motichur zones are commonly accessed from Rishikesh or Haridwar side, roughly 30-45 minutes by road, while other entry points are reachable from Dehradun. Safaris are done by jeep, typically booked through the park gate or a local operator.
Hours: Generally open for safaris from mid-November to mid-June, closed during monsoon (roughly July to mid-November) when the park is shut for the breeding season. Safari slots typically run in early morning and late afternoon.

Rajaji National Park is a large tiger reserve spanning the Shivalik foothills between Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh, home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and a wide range of birdlife. It's less famous than reserves like Corbett but offers a similar jeep-safari wildlife experience with generally lower crowds.

The park closes for an extended monsoon period each year, so timing a visit within the open season (roughly mid-November to mid-June) is essential. Multiple entry zones exist depending on which nearby city you're coming from, so it's worth confirming the most convenient gate for your specific base (Dehradun, Haridwar, or Rishikesh) before booking a safari.

Rajaji National Park FAQs

When is Rajaji National Park open for safaris?

Roughly mid-November to mid-June; it closes during the monsoon and breeding season from around July through mid-November.

Which zone should I visit from Dehradun vs. Rishikesh?

Different entry zones (like Chilla or Motichur) are more convenient depending on your base city; it's worth checking which gate is closest to where you're staying before booking.

How long does a safari take?

A typical jeep safari runs 2.5-3 hours.

Is tiger sighting likely?

Tigers are present but sightings aren't guaranteed on any single safari, similar to most Indian tiger reserves; elephants and birdlife are seen more reliably.

Do I need to book a safari in advance?

Advance booking, especially for weekends and peak season, is recommended, either online through the forest department system or via a local operator.

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