Wildlife Sanctuary Near Delhi: Rajaji National Park & Corbett National Park

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Wildlife Sanctuary Near Delhi: Rajaji National Park & Corbett National Park

For international travelers visiting North India, discovering a wildlife sanctuary near Delhi is one of the most exciting ways to experience India beyond cities, temples, and monuments. Just a few hours from the capital lie two of India’s most iconic natural reserves — Rajaji National Park and Jim Corbett National Park.

Both parks offer unforgettable safaris, rich biodiversity, and easy access from Delhi, making them perfect for a short wildlife journey or an extended nature-focused holiday.


Wildlife Sanctuary Near Rishikesh – Rajaji National Park

If you are staying in Rishikesh and want to explore the wild side of the Himalayas, Rajaji National Park is the best wildlife sanctuary near Rishikesh. Located just 15–25 km from the city, Rajaji spreads across the Shivalik ranges and the banks of the holy Ganges.

This protected area is ideal for travelers who want a soft jungle experience without long travel times.


Rajaji Tiger Reserve
Rajaji Tiger Reserve

Wildlife Sanctuary Rishikesh: Nature Meets Spirituality

Often called the hidden gem of Uttarakhand, Rajaji is the true wildlife sanctuary Rishikesh travelers talk about. The forest begins almost where the spiritual town ends.

Here, you’ll experience:

  • Dense sal forests

  • Grasslands and riverine forests

  • Natural corridors for elephants and leopards

It’s one of the few places in India where spiritual travel and wildlife exploration coexist seamlessly.


Wildlife Rishikesh: Forests, Rivers & Rare Species

When people think of wildlife Rishikesh, they are often surprised. Beyond yoga and ashrams, the region supports a diverse ecosystem including:

  • Asian elephants

  • Leopards

  • Sloth bears

  • Spotted deer & sambar

  • Over 300 bird species

The forest near Rishikesh also plays a crucial role in protecting the Himalayan foothills and the Ganges ecosystem.


Rajaji National Park Safari Rishikesh
Rajaji National Park Safari Rishikesh

Wildlife Safari Rishikesh – What to Expect in Rajaji

A wildlife safari Rishikesh usually means a guided jeep safari inside Rajaji National Park. Safaris are conducted in buffer and core zones with trained naturalists.

Safari highlights:

  • High chances of elephant sightings

  • Scenic drives through untouched forests

  • Birdwatching along riverbeds

  • Less crowded compared to Corbett

For international visitors, Rajaji offers a more peaceful, intimate wildlife journey.


Wildlife Sanctuary Near Haridwar & Wildlife in the River Ganges

Rajaji National Park is also a prominent wildlife sanctuary near Haridwar. One of its most unique features is the presence of wildlife in the River Ganges.

Along the Ganges inside Rajaji, you may spot:

  • Gharials and mugger crocodiles

  • Otters

  • Freshwater turtles

  • Migratory water birds

This makes Rajaji one of the rare parks in India where river wildlife plays a major role.


Wildlife Sanctuary Near Dehradun – Easy Access for Travelers

Rajaji is also the most accessible wildlife sanctuary near Dehradun, located roughly 20–30 km from the city and Dehradun Airport. This makes it perfect for travelers arriving by air and wanting a quick jungle escape.


Stripped Hyena Rajaji National Park
Stripped Hyena Rajaji National Park

Rishikesh Wild Animals – What You Might See

Many travelers ask about Rishikesh wild animals, especially if they plan to hike or explore outskirts. While sightings inside the town are rare, surrounding forests are home to:

  • Elephants (deep forest zones)

  • Leopards (shy and nocturnal)

  • Wild boars

  • Langurs and macaques

Always explore forested areas with local guidance.


Nearest Wildlife Sanctuary from Delhi – Why Rajaji & Corbett Top the List

If you’re searching for the nearest wildlife sanctuary from Delhi, Rajaji and Corbett are the top two choices.

  • Delhi to Rajaji National Park: ~5–6 hours

  • Delhi to Corbett National Park: ~5–6 hours

Both offer very different wildlife experiences, making them ideal to combine in one trip.


Jim Corbett National Park India
Jim Corbett National Park India

Corbett National Park from Delhi – India’s Iconic Tiger Reserve

A trip to Corbett National Park from Delhi is a dream for wildlife lovers. Known as India’s first national park, Corbett is globally famous for its Bengal tigers.

Located in the foothills of Uttarakhand, Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand offers a classic jungle safari experience with diverse landscapes — rivers, forests, grasslands, and hills.


Wildlife Journey in Corbett National Park

Your wildlife journey in Corbett is more intense and thrilling compared to Rajaji.

You may encounter:

  • Bengal tigers

  • Asian elephants

  • Leopards

  • Wild elephants herds

  • Crocodiles along Ramganga River

Corbett is ideal for travelers seeking iconic Indian wildlife and photography opportunities.


Rajaji vs Corbett – Which Wildlife Sanctuary Should You Choose?

Feature Rajaji National Park Corbett National Park
Distance from Delhi Moderate Moderate
Crowds Low High
Famous for Elephants & river wildlife Tigers
Best for Peaceful wildlife journey Iconic safari experience
Near Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun Nainital, Ramnagar

Final Thoughts: Best Wildlife Sanctuary Near Delhi for International Travelers

For international visitors, combining Rajaji National Park and Corbett National Park offers the perfect introduction to Indian wildlife. Rajaji provides serenity, river ecosystems, and proximity to Rishikesh, while Corbett delivers the thrill of tiger safaris.

Whether you are seeking a calm wildlife sanctuary near Rishikesh or planning an adventurous Corbett National Park from Delhi safari, Uttarakhand offers some of the best wildlife experiences in India — all within easy reach of the capital. 🌿🐘🐅

Wildlife Sanctuary Near Delhi Wildlife Sanctuary Near Delhi Wildlife Sanctuary Near Delhi Wildlife Sanctuary Near Delhi Wildlife Sanctuary Near Delhi Wildlife Sanctuary Near Delhi 

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About me

I am Om. I am a Travel Consultant and a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), 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 Himalayas & Spiritual Places in India.

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