Rajaji Tiger Reserve, situated in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, is a prominent wildlife sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Spanning over 820 square kilometers, the reserve encompasses parts of Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal districts. Established as a tiger reserve in 2015, Rajaji combines three important conservation areas: Rajaji National Park, Motichur Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary.

The reserve lies in the Shivalik range of the Himalayas, featuring diverse terrains that include dense forests, riverine ecosystems, and grasslands. This variety in habitats supports a wide array of flora and fauna. Rajaji Tiger Reserve is home to the Bengal tiger, which is the primary focus of conservation efforts. The tiger population here is crucial for maintaining the genetic diversity and ecological balance within the region.

In addition to tigers, Rajaji hosts a significant population of Asian elephants, making it one of the best places in India to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Other notable wildlife includes leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, sambar deer, chital (spotted deer), barking deer, and the Himalayan black bear. The reserve is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 bird species, including the great hornbill, pied kingfisher, and various species of woodpeckers and raptors.

The Ganges River, flowing through the reserve, adds to its scenic beauty and provides essential water resources for the wildlife. The riverine habitats along the Ganges support diverse aquatic life and attract numerous bird species, especially during the migratory season.

Conservation efforts in Rajaji Tiger Reserve focus on habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement. The reserve management works closely with local communities to promote eco-tourism and sustainable livelihoods, thereby reducing human-wildlife conflicts and fostering a conservation ethic among residents.

Rajaji Tiger Reserve is not only a critical sanctuary for wildlife preservation but also a significant destination for nature enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of ecological richness and natural beauty.

Flora

Flora in Rajaji Tiger Reserve is snuggled between the Indo-Gangetic plains and the Shivalik ranges and Riverine vegetation, broadleaved deciduous forests, grasslands, scrub land and pine forests make the array of flora at these parks. Verdant jungles are home to vibrant wildlife in this park/reserve. Some popular floras found in this park include: Amaltas (Cassia fistula), Rohini (Mallotus philippensis), Palash (Butea monosperma), Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo), Sal (Shorea robusta), Sandan (Ougeinia oojeinensis), Khair (Acacia catechu), Arjun (Terminalia arjuna), Baans (Dendrocalamus strictus), Semul (Bombax ceiba), Chamaror (Ehretia laevis), Amla (Emblica officinalis), Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana), Chilla (Casearia tomentosa), Bel (Aegle marmelos), Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata) etc.

Fauna

Fauna in Rajaji Tiger Reserve has the bigger population of elephants and tigers. Other species of wild animals include: Jungle Cat, Leopard, Goral, Striped Hyena, Himalayan Black Bear, Sloth Bear, Jackal, Barking Deer, Sambhar, Wild boar, In addition, there are also some primates that include the Hanuman Langur, Indian Langur and the Rhesus Macaque. Small mammals that are mostly found in park are the Indian Hare and the Indian Porcupine. Reptiles in Rajaji include (Indian) Cobra, King Cobra, Pythons, Common Krait and the Monitor Lizard.

There are approx. 315 bird species that give a big visual treat to visitors. National bird Peacock is found in abundance. Large number of butterflies and small birds are also observed that simply add beauty to this region. Some species of birds include Babbler, Rusty cheeked Scimitar, Chestnut-tailed Starling, Golden-spectacled Warbler, Drago Cuckoo, Brown Hawk-Owl, Great Hornbill, Salty Headed Parakeets, Red Jungle Fowl, Crested Kingfishers, Lineated Barbet, Black Hooded Oriole, Finches, Khaleej Pheasant, Thrushes and many more. To thrill and experience the wilderness and the richness of species, one has to visit this place and explore the Shivalik and Himalayan Ranges in Rajaji Tiger Reserve.

Air : Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun, 35km. Jolly Grant Airport which is only a few kilometers away from the Northern Boundary of the Park has a daily 55 minutes flight from Delhi.

Rail : Nearest railhead is at Haridwar ( 24Km.), Dehradun (56Km.) and Rishikesh (18 Km).

Road : The National Park is 220 kms. from Delhi & from Lucknow it is at a distance of 510km.Chilla is 8 Km. from Haridwar Railway Station which is well connected to major cities and 24 Km. from Rishikesh.