Rajaji National Park can be found in the Shivalik Ranges at the foothills of the Himalayas. The park enjoys a uniquely diverse variety of flora and fauna. The Ganga River flows through these grasslands, with the Himalayas peaking in the background, all making for a stunning backdrop. The park was originally formed through the merging of the Motichur and Chilla wildlife sanctuaries. Everything from tigers, bears, wild boar, elephants and goral, all call this paradise home. The park is best visited in the summer months as the climate although very hot, creates exciting opportunities to spot wildlife. This place is a dream for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Read below to find out more about the best things to do in the Rajaji National Park.

This is the reason most people come to visit this national park. The safari is a truly special and memorable experience. Visitors can choose between elephant and jeep safaris. Jeep rides into the jungle are piloted twice daily; from 6:00 – 9:00 am and from 3:00 – 6:00 pm. The elephant safaris were superseded in 2007 following the demise of the legendary elephant ‘Arundhati’. Nevertheless, these safaris were restarted back in November 2016 with three male elephants. Contrasting from the 3-hour long jeep expeditions, elephant safaris can last up to an hour.

It is highly recommended for visitors to tackle the tiger reserve in the area, which is called home by a whopping 50 diverse types of animals. This includes rarely seen animals like the Asian Elephant, tigers, leopards and the Himalayan Black Bear, to name a few. This reserve was created on 20th April 2015. The experience will be stuck in visitors memories for a lifetime as the magic of the jungle is something that continues to stand the test of time. Visitors’ patience will be rewarded with great wildlife photography opportunities as well.

River rafting and canoeing are some of the other outdoor activities on offer for visitors. There are 3-hour-long rafting trips beyond 12 km on the watercourses of River Ganges, available on application. The forest cabins inside the national park offer this at a rate of 800 rupees per individual. This a fun group activity that should not be missed. 

The uncluttered plains in the hills amongst the western and central Himalayas improve the variety of birds on offer and accordingly improve the watching forecasts for bird-watchers. This park is frequented sometimes primarily for this activity, especially by wildlife photographers, conservationists and tourists alike. This is one of the best things to do here. A 26 km drive along the Chilla forest part of the national park is one of the best routes to spot some of the world’s rarest birds like woodpeckers, eagles and hornbills to name a few.

Rajaji National Park endorses ecotourism and general awareness of the rich species of plants and animals that make up its natural habitat. The park aims to reduce the negative connotations associated with wildlife reserves, promote local tourism and handicrafts and reshape the perception of conservation in the minds of visitors from all over the world. Tourists are recommended to take the time out to learn more about the National Parks’ conservation efforts.