Are you planning a trip to the Rajaji National Park in Uttarakhand, India? Located at the foothills of the Shivalik Range, the national park is a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Covering an area of 820 sq km, it is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and several species of birds. In this article, we will provide a complete guide to Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand, including the best time to visit, how to reach, things to do, and much more.

Introduction

Rajaji National Park, located in Uttarakhand, India, is a wildlife sanctuary and national park known for its diverse flora and fauna. It was established in 1983 and named after C. Rajagopalachari, the last Governor-General of India. The park is spread across three districts of Uttarakhand, including Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal. The national park has been designated as a tiger reserve since 2015.

History of Rajaji National Park

The area where Rajaji National Park is located was once part of the Shiwalik Forest Division, which was established in 1936. The forest division was renamed as Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary in 1949 in honor of C. Rajagopalachari. In 1983, it was upgraded to a national park and was renamed as Rajaji National Park.

Location and Geography

Rajaji National Park is located at the foothills of the Shivalik Range in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is spread across an area of 820 sq km and covers three districts of Uttarakhand, including Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal. The national park is situated at an altitude of 300 to 1100 meters above sea level and is known for its rugged terrain and deep valleys.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

The climate at Rajaji National Park is tropical and semi-arid. The summers are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 35 to 45 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season lasts from July to September, during which the park receives heavy rainfall. The winter season is cold, with temperatures dropping to 0 degrees Celsius at night.

The best time to visit Rajaji National Park is from November to June when the weather is pleasant, and the park is open for visitors. The months of December and January are ideal for bird watching, while the summer months of April to June are best for wildlife spotting.

How to Reach Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is located around 30 km away from the national park. The nearest railway station is in Haridwar, which is around 24 km away from the park. The national park is also well connected by road, and one can easily reach there by taking a taxi or a bus from Dehradun or Haridwar.

Entry Fee and Safari Timings

To enter Rajaji National Park, visitors need to pay an entry fee, which varies depending on the nationality of the visitor. Indian nationals need to pay INR 150 per person, while foreign nationals need to pay INR 600 per person. Children below the age of five are exempt from the entry fee.

Safari rides are available at Rajaji National Park, and visitors can choose from two options: Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari. The timings for Jeep Safari are from 6:30 am to 10:00 am and from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm, while the timings for Elephant Safari are from 6:00 am to 8:00 am and from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Flora and Fauna of Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to several species of flora and fauna. The park has around 315 species of birds, including the great hornbill, the crested serpent eagle, and the pheasant-tailed jacana. The park is also home to around 50 species of mammals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. The park is also known for its reptilian and amphibian species, with around 60 species of reptiles and 10 species of amphibians found in the park.

Things to Do at Rajaji National Park

There are several things to do at Rajaji National Park, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Some of the popular activities include:

Wildlife Safari

Visitors can go on a wildlife safari at Rajaji National Park and witness the diverse flora and fauna. Jeep safaris and elephant safaris are available, and visitors can choose the one that suits their preferences.

Bird Watching

Rajaji National Park is a haven for bird watchers, with over 315 species of birds found in the park. Visitors can spend hours observing and photographing the various species of birds.

Nature Walks

Visitors can take a guided nature walk and explore the park's rugged terrain, deep valleys, and dense forests. It is a great way to experience the park's beauty up close and personal.

Trekking

Rajaji National Park is a popular destination for trekkers, with several trekking trails available. Visitors can choose from easy to difficult treks, depending on their fitness levels and preferences.

Accommodation Options at Rajaji National Park

There are several accommodation options available at Rajaji National Park, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. Some of the popular accommodation options include:

Forest Rest Houses

The forest department operates several rest houses within the park, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to stay in the midst of nature.

Luxury Resorts

There are several luxury resorts located near Rajaji National Park, providing visitors with a comfortable and luxurious stay.

Budget-Friendly Options

There are several budget-friendly accommodation options available near the national park, including guesthouses and homestays.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Visit

Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Rajaji National Park:

• Follow the park rules and regulations.
• Do not disturb the animals or their habitat.
• Do not litter and help keep the park clean.
• Wear comfortable and appropriate clothing and footwear.
• Carry sufficient water and food supplies.
• Carry insect repellent and sunscreen.

Conservation Efforts at Rajaji National Park

The forest department and several NGOs are working towards conserving the wildlife and their habitat at Rajaji National Park. The park has several conservation programs and projects in place to protect the flora and fauna within the park.

One such initiative is the anti-poaching drive, where forest officials patrol the park regularly to prevent poaching of wildlife. They also monitor the park's boundaries to prevent any illegal activities, such as cutting of trees or encroachment. The forest department has set up several check-posts and watchtowers to monitor the park's activities and protect the wildlife.

Another conservation program at Rajaji National Park is the habitat improvement project. The forest department has been working on restoring degraded forests and grasslands, creating water sources, and developing salt licks to provide animals with adequate nutrition. The park also has several plantation drives to increase the forest cover and provide habitat for wildlife.

Additionally, the forest department has set up several eco-development committees (EDCs) in the buffer zones of the park to promote sustainable development and provide livelihood opportunities to the local communities. The EDCs provide training programs to the locals in ecotourism, handicrafts, and agriculture, which helps in reducing the dependence on the forest and conserves the park's natural resources.

The park also conducts several awareness programs and workshops to educate visitors, locals, and students about the importance of conservation and the park's ecological significance. They organize nature walks, bird watching, and eco-tours, which provide visitors with a unique opportunity to witness the park's biodiversity.

Overall, the conservation efforts at Rajaji National Park have been successful in protecting the park's wildlife and their habitats. However, there is still a long way to go, and it is essential to continue these efforts to ensure the park's sustainability and preserve its ecological significance for generations to come.

Interesting Facts about Rajaji National Park

• Rajaji National Park was named after C. Rajagopalachari, who was the first governor-general of independent India.
• The park is spread over an area of 820 square kilometers and is home to several endangered species such as Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, and leopards.
• The park is a popular destination for bird watching and is home to over 315 bird species, including the great hornbill, pheasants, and kingfishers.
• Rajaji National Park is also home to several reptile species, including the Indian python, king cobra, and monitor lizard.
• The park has several scenic locations, including the Shivalik ranges, the Ganges river, and the Haridwar-Rishikesh forests.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time to visit Rajaji National Park? The best time to visit Rajaji National Park is from November to June when the weather is pleasant and the park is open to visitors.
2. What is the entry fee for Rajaji National Park? The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 150 per person, and for foreign nationals, it is INR 600 per person.
3. What is the duration of a safari at Rajaji National Park? The duration of a safari at Rajaji National Park is usually 3-4 hours.
4. Are accommodation facilities available inside the park? Yes, there are several forest rest houses and campsites available inside the park for visitors.
5. What are the major attractions near Rajaji National Park? The major attractions near Rajaji National Park include Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Mussoorie, and the Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary.

Conclusion

Rajaji National Park in Uttarakhand is a nature lover's paradise and a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The park offers a unique opportunity to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the Shivalik ranges and the Ganges river. The park's conservation efforts have been successful in protecting the wildlife and their habitats, and it is essential to continue these efforts to preserve the park's ecological significance for future generations. A visit to Rajaji National Park is an unforgettable experience and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to reconnect with nature.