Explore Rajaji Tiger Reserve in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Located in the heart of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, the Rajaji Tiger Reserve is one of North India’s most important wildlife sanctuaries. Established in 1983, the reserve spans over 820 sq km and is named after C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji), a prominent leader of India’s independence movement and the country’s second Governor-General.
Spread across the Shivalik Hills and the Indo-Gangetic Plains, Rajaji offers a rare combination of dense forests, river ecosystems, and rich wildlife—all just minutes away from Rishikesh and Haridwar.
Wildlife of Rajaji Tiger Reserve
Rajaji Tiger Reserve is known for its impressive biodiversity and is often called the “Elephant Kingdom of Uttarakhand.”
Mammals You May Spot
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Royal Bengal Tiger
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Asian Elephant (over 350 individuals)
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Leopard
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Sloth Bear & Himalayan Black Bear
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Goral (mountain goat of the Shivaliks)
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Sambar, Chital (Spotted Deer), Barking Deer
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Wild Boar, Nilgai, Jackal, Hyena, Civet, Jungle Cat
The varied terrain makes Rajaji a perfect habitat for both plains and hill species.
Chilla Range Rajaji Tiger Reserve
Chilla Range – The Most Popular Safari Zone
The Chilla Range is the most visited zone of Rajaji Tiger Reserve and is closest to Rishikesh. It is known for:
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High chances of elephant sightings
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Open grasslands and riverbeds
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Scenic forest drives and birding opportunities
Jeep safaris here offer a raw and less crowded jungle experience compared to larger tiger reserves.
Birdwatching in Rajaji Tiger Reserve
Rajaji is a paradise for bird lovers, with 300+ bird species recorded.
Highlights Include:
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Migratory birds like Pochards, Mallards, Teals, Gulls, and Shellducks
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Resident birds such as Peafowl, Jungle Fowl, Kingfishers, Woodpeckers, Parakeets, Barbets, and Warblers
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The majestic Great Pied Hornbill, one of the park’s most prized sightings
Birding hotspots include wetlands near Bhimgora and Virbhadra Barrage and the banks of the Ganga River.
Activities in Rajaji Tiger Reserve
Visitors can enjoy a range of nature-based experiences:
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Jeep Safaris in designated zones
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Guided nature walks
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Birdwatching tours
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Forest trekking routes, including the scenic Chilla–Motichur–Kunao trek with Himalayan views
Forest Rest Houses & Resorts Near Rajaji
Accommodation options include both forest stays and nearby resorts:
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GMVN Guest House, Chilla Gate
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Satyanarayan Forest Rest House (FRH)
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Wild Brook Retreat near Gohari Range
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Palm Resort (Haridwar–Rishikesh Road)
Forest rest houses must be booked in advance and offer a true jungle stay experience.
How to Reach Rajaji Tiger Reserve
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From Delhi: approx. 265 km via NH-58
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Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (30 km from Motichur Gate)
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Nearest Cities: Rishikesh & Haridwar (well connected by road and rail)
Rajaji is one of the easiest tiger reserves to reach in North India.
Timings, Entry & Safari Zones
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Open Season: Mid-November to Mid-June
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Closed: July to October (monsoon & breeding season)
Tourism Zones:
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Chilla
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Motichur
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Ranipur
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Asarori
Overnight stays are allowed in selected forest rest houses with prior booking.
Best Time to Visit Rajaji Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit Rajaji Tiger Reserve is from November to June.
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December to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for safaris and birding
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April to June: Higher chances of wildlife sightings near water sources
Final Thoughts
The Rajaji Tiger Reserve in Rishikesh offers a rare chance to experience rich wildlife, elephants, birds, and forest landscapes without traveling far from the city. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or traveler seeking an offbeat jungle escape, Rajaji delivers an authentic and peaceful wildlife experience in Uttarakhand.
