Nestled in the foothills of the Shivalik range in northern India, Rajaji National Park is a pristine wilderness that offers a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Spanning across three districts - Dehradun, Haridwar, and Pauri Garhwal - in the state of Uttarakhand, the park covers an expansive area of approximately 820.42 sq. km. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems, Rajaji National Park is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, making it a key destination for wildlife tourism. The park is home to an impressive array of flora and fauna, including Asian elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and over 300 species of birds.
Rajaji National Park is divided into several safari zones - Chilla, Motichur, and Jhilmil, which are known for their dense forests and wildlife sightings. The Mohand zone, on the other hand, is perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts. Jeep safaris provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the park’s vibrant wildlife up close.
Here’s Why One Should Choose the Mohand Range of Rajaji National Park
Mohand Range is located in Dehradun, just 24 km from the Dehradun Railway Station. The Mohand Forest area of Rajaji National Park has gained immense popularity among tourists for its frequent leopard sightings. Located conveniently near the Dehradun-Delhi highway, it offers easy accessibility, making it a favoured destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Tourists flock to this region, particularly in the winter season, to witness leopards and their cubs basking in the sunshine. The allure of these sightings has led to a remarkable 40% increase in tourist arrivals during the 2024 season. In response to this surge, the park authorities have increased the number of safari vehicles to accommodate the growing interest in exploring this picturesque range.
The rise in leopard sightings can be attributed to several factors. The Mohand Forest, with its limited hiding spots, offers an open view of these elusive creatures, making it an ideal location for wildlife enthusiasts. Additionally, leopards captured from human-inhabited areas are often relocated to Mohand, further boosting their population in the region. According to estimates, the wildlife sanctuary is home to approximately 200 leopards. The translocation of tigers from Corbett Tiger Reserve to the western part of Rajaji National Park has also influenced the movement of leopards, with many finding a safe haven in Mohand. With consistent opportunities for sightings, visitors to Mohand Forest rarely leave disappointed.
Safari Booking and Reaching the Mohand Forest Range
During the peak tourist season from October to March, Rajaji National Park receives heavy footfall. Popular zones like Chilla and Motichoor, and recently the Mohand Zone are the primary highlights and are preferred by most tourists. You must opt for Rajaji online safari booking so that you can reserve your jeep safari in advance. Securing your safari tickets early is a crucial part of the planning process for the Rajaji trip.
While planning for a visit to Rajaji National Park, the nearest railway stations to Chilla and Motichoor Range are in Haridwar and Rishikesh. The train transport is the most convenient option to commute, followed by the road transport. As already mentioned, Dehradun Railway Station is in close proximity, as well as the Jolly Grant Aiport in Dehraun is also about 47 km away. This is an added benefit for tourists coming to Mohand Range, as they can choose any mode of commute among road, rail and air.
