Rajaji National Park, nestled in the Shivalik ranges near the foothills of the Himalayas, offers a captivating escape from the hustle and bustle of Delhi. Just a few hours' drive from the nation’s capital, this pristine wildlife sanctuary is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Rajaji is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including majestic elephants, elusive tigers, and a myriad of bird species. The national park's lush forests, picturesque landscapes, and serene rivers create a perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating getaway. Whether you're an avid wildlife photographer, a trekking enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquillity in nature's embrace, Rajaji National Park promises an unforgettable experience. Join us as we explore the wonders of this natural gem, just a short trip away from Delhi, and discover the magic that awaits in the heart of Uttarakhand's wilderness.
Reaching Rajaji National Park from Delhi is both convenient and scenic. The journey, which spans approximately 244 km, can be undertaken by car, bus, or train, taking around 5-6 hours. If you prefer a road trip, the route via NH334 offers a pleasant drive with opportunities to stop at various attractions along the way. En route, you can visit Haridwar, which beckons with its spiritual charm, where you can witness the mesmerising Har Ki Pauri Ganga Ghat or the Chandi Ghat and Chandi Devi Mandir. These stops not only break the journey but also enrich your travel experience, setting the stage for an immersive visit to Rajaji National Park.
Tailor your Weekend Plan for Rajaji
In order to enjoy the road trip it is necessary to start early from Delhi, so that you can reach Rajaji National Park by 1:30 pm. The afternoon safari slot commences from 2:30 pm and you need to be present near the safari at least half an hour prior to the safari schedule. ReachingRajaji, have lunch and check into a hotel to secure your belongings and straightway head towards the safari gate. The safari mostly operated for around 2 hours in the afternoon. Before planning a weekend tour to Rajaji National Park, it is crucial to book Rajaji online safari tickets in advance to secure jeep safari during the peak season. Completing the first round of safari, return to your lodge and get proper rest to shrug off the day’s exhaustion. The evening in the serene surroundings of Rajaji National Park offers a peaceful aura and you can sit back and relax inside your booked room or outside, within the open area of the hotel premises, sitting beside a campfire.
The next day, head out for the morning safari at Rajaji. An advance booking facilitates choosing a different safari zone for different safari slots. The Chilla and Motichoor ranges are the most popular ones for safari in Rajaji National Park. Therefore, you can opt for both these safari zones, based on the availability of the jeeps. The morning safari is conducted from 6:30 am to 8:30 am. Embarking on a jeep, traverse the unpaved pathways and enter deep inside the forest. Although wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but adhering to the instructions of the guide and the jeep driver escalates the chances to wildlife spotting and might end up witnessing and admiring the vibrant fauna and flora of Rajaji National Park.
Coming back from the morning safari of the second day, have your breakfast and complete the checkout procedures of the hotel to head back to Delhi. A short visit to Rishikesh can be an optional incorporation to the trip if you can afford to have one more day with the weekend. Else, reach Delhi by Sunday evening to get back to your designated place of work from Monday onwards.