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Situated at the base of the Shivalik hills, Rajaji National Park is one of the many illustrations of Uttarakhand’s rich flora and fauna as well as stunning landscapes. Covering an area of more than 820 sq. kms, this national park in Dehradun is home to an array of wildlife including elephants, tigers, colorful birds and many more earning it the title of the wildlife and nature enthusiasts paradise. Be it thrilling vacations, peaceful excursions, or nature oriented retreats, Rajaji National Park is an alluring exodus that wears out the untouched beauty of Uttarakhand.
Location
Photo: Zdeněk Macháček / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Located in Dehradun, Rajaji National Park provides an exceptional immersion in nature between adventure, calmness and beauty. The park is famous for its striking wildlife comprising elephants, leopards, a wide range of available birds among others. Its beautiful green forests, stunning river valleys and varying topography makes it a perfect place for safaris, trekking, and bird watching.
How To Reach Rajaji National Park
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By Road: Dehradun, situated around 20 kilometers away from the city center, makes the Rajaji National Park easily accessible by road. Going into the park is possible with a self-drive car, taxi or state-operated buses with the added advantage of beautiful drive along the Shivalik range.
By Public Transport: Travelling within the city of Dehradun has its pluses especially when one wishes to go to the Rajaji national park which is some distance away. There are also reliable and cheap bus services that operate from the main bus terminal to the Rajaji national park.
By Air: The nearest airport to Rajaji National Park is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 35 km away. Regular flights connect it to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can reach the park by taxi or bus via Dehradun, Haridwar, or Rishikesh.
Places To Visit In And around Rajaji National Park
Here are some of the best places to visit near this national park in Dehradun for an elevated adventure:
1. Har Ki Pauri
Photo: आशीष_भटनागर / Wikimedia Commons
Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri is an important ghat on the banks of the holy river Ganga situated more than twenty-five kilometers from Rajaji National Park. This place is famous for the Ganga Aarti performed there every evening which is why many people come here for the ceremonial observances and to enjoy the pleasant views along the river. The ghat is crowded with devotees while the calm water has numerous lit diyas floating on it creating magic around.
Timings: Open 24 hours (Aarti timings vary)
Entry Fee: N/A
Major Attractions: Evening Ganga Aarti, sacred riverfront, ritual bathing
2. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Photo: Shakti / Wikimedia Commons
Around 45 km from Rajaji National Park lies Neelkanth Mahadev temple which is an important shrine for Hindus in honor of Lord Shiva. The temple is on the hill in Rishikesh with beautiful gardens overlooking the valleys and forests. Lord Shiva’s temple is particularly visited during the evenings of Shivratri and the month of Shravan, otherwise, it is an ideal place for visitors and pilgrims seeking solace in nature.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
3. Triveni Ghat
Photo: Blue Particle Solutions Narender Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
Venerated for its Triveni Ghat which literally translates to triad riverbank, Triveni Ghat is a historical ghat around Rishikesh located nearly forty-seven kilometers from this national park in Dehradun. Mostly known for the sacred meeting of three rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, the place is associated greatly with psychic press. Many people also come for the ‘Aarti’ (a religious ceremony performed in the evening) or sit on the banks and meditate.
Timings: Open 24 hours (Aarti at sunset)
Entry Fee: N/A
Major Attractions: Evening Aarti, meditation spots, ritual bathing
4. Mansa Devi Temple
Photo: Harshvardhan thakur / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Mansa Devi temple situated atop Bheela Parvat mountain in the town of Haridwar is 30 km from Rajaji National Park and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mansa Devi and is a famous place for pilgrimage. The temple is about a cable ride or a brief walk and is notoriously famous for the breathtaking views of Haridwar city and the Ganges River. The visitors worship there as well as enjoying the beautiful view from the top of the mountain.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: N/A (Cable car charges apply)
Major Attractions: Hilltop views, cable car ride, spiritual setting
5. Patanjali Yogpeeth
Photo: Alokprasad / Wikimedia Commons
Patanjali Yogpeeth is one of the largest yoga institutions in the world. It is situated in the city of Haridwar, which is about 40 km from Rajaji National Park. This holistic center was established by Swami Ramdev and tends to focus on Ayurveda, yoga, and other traditional healing arts. The hospital section, research wing, and yoga halls on its serene premises provide relaxation to health tourism seekers.
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Major Attractions: Yoga sessions, Ayurvedic treatments, health workshops
Where To Stay
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Given that this national park in Dehradun does not have any hotels or lodges within its borders, several budget to mid-range hotels nearby the park are easily off its entrance. Some of the favorites include The Haveli Hari Ganga, and Ganga Lahari in Haridwar, both carrying with them the essence of hospitality, spectacular views of the Ganges. Most of the places to stay arrange safaris, nature walks with guides, thus making sure that there is a perfect balance of fun and relaxation during your visit to Rajaji National Park.
Where To Eat
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When visiting Rajaji National Park, relish in the local dishes of the Uttarakhand state in the various restaurants available. If you wish to try more dishes go to The Sitting Elephant, where you can sample Indian, Chinese, and Continental food. For contemplation of the cuisine in Rishikesh, there is the bistro named Nirvana which serves delicious organic foods, Little Buddha Café is where you can enjoy river views while dining.
Best Time To Visit Rajaji National Park
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The best season to go to this national park in Dehradun is from November to March. At this time, the climate is quite favorable for activities like wildlife safaris, bird watching, trekking among others.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
Usually, a trip which includes transport, accommodation and meals is rather budget-friendly and costs around ₹2000 to ₹4000 per person considering the scope of various activities, and standard of comfort.
Tips For Travellers
- Bring appropriate footwear for walking and hiking on rough terrains as well as for activity.
- Bring refreshments and water on the spot since there are few if any food outlets within the park.
- Awake early in the morning, so as to bask in the serenity of the park, and increase your chances of spotting wildlife before the crowd arrives.
- Be kind to the local wildlife and follow the regulations of the park to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
- A camera is a must to be able to document the stunning scenery and various animal life that you will see along the way.
Spanning across Uttarakhand’s verdant terrains, Rajaji national park is a renowned gem when it comes to ecotourism and adventure. This national park in Dehradun is heartily welc
omed by anyone who wishes to observe animals, take safaris, or take a stroll in a serene jungle. With opportunities for scenic walks, and quiet places to rest, it is well enjoyed by nature lovers seeking an escape. Book your visit with Trip XL!
Cover Photo: Kingshuk Mondal / Wikimedia Commons
