Discover Safari at Rajaji National Park Rishikesh India’s Timings & Best Zone

Embark on a Safari at Rajaji National Park to discover the stunning wildlife park located in Uttarakhand, North India. Known for its emblematic elephant, the park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The Safari at Rajaji National Park takes place in the small village of Chilla.   

The Cilla range is located 13 km northeast of Haridwar and 25 km from Rishikesh. Explore the Kingdom of the Elephant and hear the roar of wild tigers on this thrilling adventure on Safari at Rajaji National Park.

Rajaji National Park in Rishikesh

The Rajaji National Park, established in 1983, encompasses three natural sanctuaries – Motichur, Rajaji, and Chilla. Located around 24 km away from the Ganges River, it spans an area of 820.42 square km and is adorned with lush forests and mountains.

The park is now renowned for its Jungle Jeep Safari at Rajaji National Park, which operates every weekday from 07 AM to 05 PM. Additionally, there are resorts and camping sites within the park premises for short and long-term stays.

Rajaji National Park Safari Booking (For Indian Nationals)

S.No. No. of Person Entry Gate Gypsy Charges (INR) Entry Fees
Gypsy/Vehicle (INR)
Gate Entry Fees Member(s) (INR)
1. 1 to 6 Chilla-I/Jhilmil/Ranipur
Safari Duration: 2:30-3 Hours
3000.00 250.00 150.00 x per person
up to 6 persons
2. 1 to 6 Chilla IInd / Motichur (Satyanarayan)
Safari Duration: 1:30-2 Hours
2500.00 250.00 150.00 x per person
up to 6 persons
3. 1 to 6 Gohri
Safari Duration: 1:30-2 Hours
2500.00 100.00 N.A.

For Foreign Nationals

Gypsy Charges (INR)) Entry Fees
Gypsy/Vehicle (INR)
Gate Entry Fees  P.P (INR)
4. 1-4 Jhilmil/Ranipur/Chilla (Ist Main) 4000.00 500.00 600.00 x per person
up to 6 persons
5. 5-6 Jhilmil/Ranipur/Chilla (Ist Main) 5000.00 500.00 600.00 x per person
up to 6 persons
6. 1-6 Chilla (IInd Andheri) 3000.00 500.00 600.00 x per person
up to 6 persons
7 1-6 Gohri Range
(Buffer zone safari)
3000.00 500.00 N.A.

Complementary: One Child up to 5 years on one Jeep.

Rajaji National Park to Rishikesh

If you’re looking to travel from Rajaji National Park to Rishikesh, it’s only 25 km away from the Chilla range of the Park. However, if you’re interested in booking a safari, you’ll need to reach the Motichur Range of the Park.

Haridwar to Rajaji National Park

Despite being located just a few kilometers from Rishikesh, the main draw of the park is its exceptional biodiversity. It is home to 315 bird species and 23 mammal species, including around 50 tigers, 200 leopards, Himalayan bears, and Sambar deer (which are difficult to spot despite their large population).

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Stripped Hyena Rajaji National Park
Stripped Hyena Rajaji National Park

Best Time for Safari at Rajaji National Park

The best time to see wildlife at Rajaji National Park is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as that’s when animals are most active. However, note that the park is closed during the monsoon season from June 15 to October 14 each year.

Rajaji National Park Safari Booking

I would suggest booking your safari through a travel agent, as many times tourists miss their safari schedule when they try to book it themselves. Or, it can be hard to reach the park early in the morning on your own by taking the Jungle Road. Rishikesh to Rajaji National Park is only 25 km via Vibhadra Road to reach the Chilla Range of the Park.

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Tiger in Motichur Range of the Rajaji National Park
Tiger in Motichur Range of the Rajaji National Park

Highlights: Safari at Rajaji National Park

The Safari at Rajaji National Park’s main attraction is its extraordinary biodiversity, including over 315 species of birds, 23 mammal species, and more than 450 wild elephants. While the park officially opens for visitors between November 15 and June 15, some tour operators provide the opportunity for safaris outside of Rajaji, specifically for birdwatching safaris.

Here’s a list of things to do during your safari experience at Safari at Rajaji National Park:
  • Birdwatching: Rajaji National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 315 bird species recorded. Keep your binoculars ready to spot colorful birds like the Great Hornbill, Crested Kingfisher, and many more.
  • Wildlife Photography: Capture the incredible biodiversity and picturesque landscapes of the park. From majestic animals to stunning flora, there are plenty of subjects to hone your photography skills.
  • Nature Walks: Take guided nature walks to explore the park’s periphery and buffer zones. Experienced naturalists can provide valuable insights into the local flora and fauna.
  • Visit Chilla Dam: The Chilla Dam inside the park is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty. It’s also an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially during the winter migratory season.
  • Jungle Camping: Depending on the park’s regulations and permissions, you may have the opportunity to camp in designated areas within the park. Camping under the stars and amidst nature can be an unforgettable experience.
  • Rajaji Tiger Reserve Visit: Rajaji National Park is part of the larger Rajaji Tiger Reserve. If possible, try to visit the reserve’s other zones for a chance to see more wildlife and different landscapes.
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Gujjar Trible Village
Gujjar Trible Village

Gujjar Tribal Village

After Safari at Rajaji National Park, you can visit en route key stop at a Gujjar tribal village, where buffalo herding is the primary occupation. The Chilla range is the entry point to the park for Safari at Rajaji National Park, where visitors can rent an all-terrain vehicle that can accommodate up to eight people to explore the region.

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A Tusker Elephant in Rajaji National Park
A Tusker Elephant in Rajaji National Park

Haridwar to Rajaji National Park

The Motichur and Chilla ranges in Uttarakhand offer some of the best tiger and elephant safaris in the country. If you’re looking to see tigers, Motichur is the place to be, just 10 km from Haridwar. For Safari at Rajaji National Park, head to Chilla, 25 km away.

Conclusion

Our Jeep Safari at Rajaji National Park is one of the most popular tour packages in Rishikesh, India. This article will walk you through all of the steps needed to book your Jeep Safari in Rajaji National Park. Let’s get started!

Author

Namaste! I am Om. I am a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), I’m originally from Varanasi. Now, I am living in Rishikesh. I set up this blog to share my tips and experiences for traveling to inspire and help you to travel more. Hari Om

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