🐘 Rajaji National Park Safaris: A Wild Escape Near Haridwar You Shouldn’t Miss in 2025
When you think of jungle safaris in India, Jim Corbett and Ranthambore often steal the spotlight. But tucked away in the foothills of the Shivaliks, just a short drive from Haridwar and Rishikesh, lies a wildlife haven often missed by the mainstream crowd—Rajaji National Park.
If you’re looking for a raw, less-commercialized jungle experience where you might spot Asian elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and even tigers, Rajaji is your hidden gem.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Rajaji National Park Safaris in 2025—from safari zones, timings, ticket prices, to how to book it the right way.
📍 Where is Rajaji National Park?
Rajaji National Park spreads across three districts of Uttarakhand—Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal. It covers over 820 square kilometers and is named after C. Rajagopalachari, India’s last Governor-General.
The park merges Chilla, Motichur, and Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuaries, offering diverse terrains—from dense sal forests to grasslands, rivers, and hills.
🌐 Official Website: rajajinationalpark.co.in
🚙 Safari Zones in Rajaji National Park
Rajaji has 6 main safari zones, but the most popular and tourist-friendly are:
1. Chilla Range (Near Haridwar)
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Best zone for spotting elephants, deer, peacocks, and occasionally leopards.
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Very scenic; runs along the Ganga River.
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Closest zone from Haridwar city.
2. Motichur Range (Near Haridwar-Rishikesh road)
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Known for dense forest and quiet trails.
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Wildlife sightings are unpredictable but rewarding.
3. Ranipur Range
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Close to Haridwar, less crowded.
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Rich in birdlife; good for bird watchers and peaceful safaris.
4. Asarori and Mohand Zones (Near Dehradun)
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Farther out but rich in leopard and bear sightings.
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Great for offbeat travelers.
🕰️ Safari Timings in Rajaji National Park
The park is open from 15th November to 15th June every year. Safaris run in two slots daily:
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Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM
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Evening Safari: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
🛑 Note: Entry is not allowed during monsoons (mid-June to mid-November) due to safety and road conditions.
💰 Safari Charges & Booking Details (2025 Update)
Here’s the updated fee structure (may vary slightly by zone):
| Ticket Type | Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Entry Fee (Indians) | ₹250 per person |
| Entry Fee (Foreigners) | ₹950 per person |
| Jeep Safari (Max 6) | ₹2400 – ₹3000 |
| Guide Charges | ₹300 – ₹500 |
📝 How to Book:
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✅ Official booking portal: rajajinationalpark.co.in
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✅ Or on-ground counters near Chilla Gate
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✅ You can also book through registered local tour operators
🎒 Tip: Book early for weekends and holidays, especially from December to March.
🐅 What Wildlife Can You Spot?
Rajaji is home to over 50 species of mammals and 300+ species of birds. While sightings depend on your luck and the season, here’s what’s commonly seen:
Common Sightings:
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🐘 Asian Elephants
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🐆 Leopards
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🦌 Spotted & Sambar Deer
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🐗 Wild Boars
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🐻 Sloth Bears
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🐒 Langurs & Macaques
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🦚 Peacocks & Indian Rollers
Rare but Possible:
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🐯 Tigers
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🐍 King Cobras
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🦅 Crested Serpent Eagles
📸 Best times for wildlife spotting are early morning safaris.
🌿 Eco-Friendly Tips for Rajaji Visitors
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Don’t feed or tease animals
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Stay silent and alert during safari
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Use binoculars, not zoom flashes
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Carry refillable bottles, avoid plastic
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Respect local guides—they know best
🗺️ How to Reach Rajaji National Park?
From Haridwar:
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🚗 Chilla Gate is just 10–12 km from Haridwar railway station.
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Local taxis, autos, and Ola/Uber are available.
From Rishikesh:
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About 17–20 km to Chilla Range
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Private cabs or shared autos are the best option
From Dehradun:
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50–60 km to Mohand/Asarori gates
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Best reached by self-drive or hired cab
✈️ Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 40 km)
🙋 FAQs – Rajaji National Park Safaris
✅ What’s the best time to visit Rajaji National Park?
November to March is ideal due to pleasant weather and increased wildlife activity.
✅ Is Rajaji National Park better than Jim Corbett?
Rajaji is less crowded and more peaceful, but Corbett has a better chance of spotting tigers. If you prefer a quiet safari with elephants and birds, Rajaji is perfect.
✅ Can I do a same-day safari from Haridwar?
Yes! Chilla Gate is just 20–30 minutes away. You can do a morning or evening safari easily on the same day.
✅ Is online booking mandatory?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
✅ Are there accommodations inside the park?
Some forest rest houses are available through Uttarakhand Forest Department, and many budget and luxury stays are available near Chilla and Motichur gates.
Final Note & Source Transparency
All content provided above is carefully curated using verified and publicly available government and tourism resources. The blog is intended to inform and assist travelers in planning an ethical, enriching, and safe wildlife experience.
We do not claim any authority over the names or data mentioned. If any concerned entity or individual has a suggestion or correction request, we humbly welcome it and will update accordingly.
Rajaji National Park Official Site
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