A paradise for wildlife enthusiasts

Settled within the embrace of the ancient Shivalik range lies a realm of untamed splendour – the Rajaji National Park (or Rajaji Tiger Reserve). This verdant sanctuary is a combination of the Chilla, Motichur, and Rajaji sanctuaries, spread across Uttarakhand's Pauri Garhwal, Dehradun, and Saharanpur districts.

If you're a wildlife enthusiast, you are in for an exciting time, for this fantastic park is known for its significant population of wild elephants and tigers. The elusive leopard may no longer be elusive here. There may be an encounter with a jungle cat or the majestic Himalayan black bear. Don't be surprised if you come face to face with the agile goral, striped hyena, or the playful sloth bear. The primate population includes the Hanuman langur, Indian langur, and the rhesus macaque. Reptile enthusiasts will delight in spotting the Indian cobra, king cobra, pythons, common krait, and monitor lizard.

And if you're a birdwatcher, this is your paradise, with more than 400 species of birds. The iconic national bird, the peacock, and various other avian species can be seen in abundance. From the melodious babbler to the colourful chestnut-tailed starling and the majestic great hornbill, the park offers a visual feast for bird enthusiasts.

Rajaji National Park honours the legacy of C. Rajagopalachari (fondly known as Rajaji), a renowned freedom fighter and India's first Governor-General. The park covers an area of 820.42 sq km and serves as the lungs of Uttarakhand's three major cities—Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh—providing fresh, clean air to millions of residents.