About Rajaji Wildlife National Park
The
Rajaji National Park is located in the Shivalik ranges of the Himalayas in
the state of Uttaranchal in northern India. The national park came into
being when three wildlife sanctuaries namely Rajaji, Motichur and Chilla
were combined into one large protected area in the year 1983. The park was
named Rajaji after the famous freedom fighter late Sri C. Rajgopalachari,
popularly known as 'Rajaji'. Covering an area of around 820.42 sq km, the
Rajaji National Park represents a fabulous ecosystem nestled in the Shivalik
ranges and acquiring the beginning part of the vast Indo-Gangetic plain. The
scenic wonders and the wealth of its bio-diversity attract hordes of nature
lovers and wildlife enthusiasts from all over. Exploring the rich wildlife
of the Rajaji National Park is truly an adventure of a lifetime!
Flora, Fauna & Avi-fauna
Sprawling over an area of 820.42 sq km, the Rajaji National Park represents
a fabulous ecosystem nestled in the Shivalik ranges and the beginning of the
Indo-Gangetic plain. Distinct vegetation and forest types of various zones
can be observed here. There are forest types like riverine, broad-leaf mixed
forests, Chirpine forests, scrubland and grassy pasturelands. There are
around 23 species of mammals and 315 species of avi-fauna.
The animal inmates of the park include tiger, elephant, leopard, Jungle
cat, Sambar, Cheetal, barking deer, wild boar, sloth bear, Langoor, Ghoral,
monitor lizard, Himalayan yellow throated marten, python, civet, king cobra
etc.
The avi-fauna population includes pea fowl, jungle fowl, Kaleej peasant,
hornbill, woodpecker, thrushes, kingfisher, parakeets, warbler, barbet,
finch, Indian roller and Oriola among others. India's national bird Peacock
is found here in abundance.
Attractions Around Rajaji National Park
»
Haridwar - Haridwar is counted among the country's seven holiest places
according to the Hindu mythology. Chief attractions of the city include Har
Ki Pauri, Chandi Devi, Bilwa Parvat, Vaishno Devi Temple, Bharat Mata
Temple, Maya Devi Temple, Bhimgoda etc.
» Rishikesh - Rishikesh is considered to be the
birthplace of Yoga. Devotees, worshippers, travellers and tourists from all
around crowd the place to seek blessings from the gods. There are such
famous attractions as Triveni Ghat, Bharat Mandir, Chandreshwar Temple,
Lakshman Jhula, Swarg Ashram, Kailashananda Ashram and the Jaisamand Lake.
» Dehradun - The beautiful city of Dehradun is the
capital of the newly formed state of Uttaranchal. Major tourist attractions
here are Tapkeshwar, Robber's Cave, Tapovan, Malsi Deer Park, Forest
Research Institute and Kalsi.
Accessibiltiy
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant at Dehradun. Delhi's Palam Airport
operates regular flights to the Jolly Grant Airport. Haridwar and Dehradun
are the closest railway stations. There are regular trains available from
New Delhi's railway station. There are bus services available as well. Delhi
lies at a distance of 231 km from here. The park can easily be accessed from
Haridwar, Dehradun, Rishikesh and Mussoorie. The headquarters of the park is
located at Dehradun.
Ideal Time
The Rajaji National Park remains open for visitors from 15th November till
15th June. Entry after sunset is not permitted.
