Safari at Rajaji National Park, Rishikesh: Timings, Best Zone, Price & Guide

A Safari at Rajaji National Park is one of the best wildlife experiences near Rishikesh and Haridwar. Famous for its large elephant population, rich birdlife, and growing tiger sightings, Rajaji National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers exploring North India.

Most safaris operate from the Chilla Range, a small forest village that serves as the main safari entry point for visitors coming from Rishikesh.

Rajaji National Park in Rishikesh – Overview

Established in 1983, Rajaji National Park was formed by merging three wildlife sanctuaries:

• Chilla Range

• Motichur Range

• Rajaji Sanctuary

• Total Area: 820.42 sq km

• Landscape: Shivalik forests, rivers, grasslands, hills

• Distance from Rishikesh: ~25 km

• Distance from Haridwar: ~13 km

Safari Timings at Rajaji National Park

🕖 Safari Timings:

• Morning: 07:00 AM – 10:00 AM

• Afternoon: 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM

⛔ Park Closed:

• Monsoon season: 15 June to 14 October every year

Wildlife sightings are best early morning or late afternoon, when animals are most active.

Best Safari Zone in Rajaji National Park

🐘 Chilla Range (Best for Rishikesh Travelers)

• Closest zone to Rishikesh (25 km)

• Famous for elephants, deer, birds

• Scenic forests and river views

• Ideal for first-time safari visitors

🐅 Motichur Range (Best for Tigers)

• Closest to Haridwar (10 km)

• Higher chances of tiger and leopard sightings

• Dense forest terrain

🌿 Jhilmil & Gohri Ranges

• Buffer zones

• Best for birdwatching and peaceful safaris

• Fewer crowds

👉 Verdict:

• From Rishikesh → Chilla Range

• From Haridwar → Motichur Range

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Suggested Read – JUNGLE SAFARI IN CORBETT NATIONAL PARK

Rajaji National Park Safari Price (Updated Guide)

Safari Charges – Indian Nationals

👶 One child (up to 5 years) – Complimentary per jeep

Safari Charges – Foreign Nationals

Rajaji National Park Safari Booking

While online booking exists, booking through a local travel agent in Rishikesh is recommended, because:

• Early-morning access is easier

• Avoids missing time slots

• Jungle roads are confusing for first-time visitors

🚗 Rishikesh to Rajaji National Park distance: ~25 km via Virbhadra Road (to Chilla Gate)

Suggested Read – How Much Time in Rishikesh is Enough?

Wildlife Highlights of Rajaji National Park

• 🐘 450+ Wild Elephants

• 🐅 ~50 Tigers

• 🐆 Leopards

• 🦌 Sambar & Chital Deer

• 🐻 Himalayan Black Bear

• 🦅 315+ Bird Species

Despite large populations, sightings depend on luck, timing, and season.

Things to Do During Safari at Rajaji National Park

• Birdwatching – Great Hornbill, Crested Kingfisher, Eagles

• Wildlife Photography – Forests, rivers, animals

• Visit Chilla Dam – Scenic & calm

• Nature Walks – Buffer zones with forest guides

• Jungle Camping – With permissions

• Rajaji Tiger Reserve Zones – Explore varied landscapes

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Gujjar Tribal Village Visit

Rajaji National Park vs Jim Corbett (Quick Comparison)

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FAQs – Safari at Rajaji National Park

Where is Rajaji National Park located?

Rajaji National Park is located in Uttarakhand, between Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.

Is Rajaji National Park open?

Yes, it is open from 15 October to 15 June.

Is safari possible from Rishikesh?

Yes, Chilla Range is the main safari gate from Rishikesh.

Is Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary same as Rajaji National Park?

Yes, Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary is now officially known as Rajaji National Park / Tiger Reserve.

Is Rajaji safari worth it?

Absolutely—especially for elephants, birds, and peaceful jungle experiences close to Rishikesh.

Conclusion

A Safari at Rajaji National Park is the perfect wildlife escape if you’re visiting Rishikesh or Haridwar. With easy access, rich biodiversity, fewer crowds, and scenic forest landscapes, it offers one of the best jungle safaris near Rishikesh.

Whether you’re a wildlife photographer, birdwatcher, or casual traveler, Rajaji delivers a memorable jungle adventure.

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