Tracing the roots of its origins
Long before the boundaries of the Rajaji National Park were etched upon maps, its primordial forests stood as silent witnesses to the ebb and flow of time itself. In the autumn of 1948, fate intervened in the form of a fateful encounter between C. Rajagopalachari, the Indian Governor General of that time, and the untamed wildlife of Dehradun's Shooting Block, which sowed the seeds of its creation.
As the governor-general ventured into the verdant depths, his soul was moved by the unbridled majesty that unfolded before him. At that very moment, a huntsman's rifle was replaced by a vision of preservation. Rajaji's impassioned plea echoed through the canopy, urging that this Eden be safeguarded for future generations. His call did not go unheeded and thus began a metamorphosis that would enshrine these lush grounds as a sanctuary for nature's most precious treasures.
On August 12, 1983, the Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary was given the status of a National Park, spanning 820.42 square kilometres and embracing the adjoining Chilla and Motichoor Wildlife Sanctuaries. This resplendent expanse continued to evolve, culminating in its designation as a Tiger Reserve in 2015, now encompassing a staggering 1075.17 square kilometres. The mighty Ganges River, a lifeline for the region, flows through the heart of the reserve for 25 kilometres, dividing it into two distinct halves, each brimming with its unique wonders.
Get ready for a wild expedition
For those seeking a thrilling encounter with nature's untamed rhythms, the jungle safari at Rajaji National Park beckons with an irresistible call. Venturing along designated tracks that wind through the park's verdant heart, you'll embark on a journey, offering you a vantage point where chances of spotting an elusive fauna in its element increase.
Each open-air jeep that traverses these hallowed grounds is an extension of the wilderness itself, and you get a mobile point to see the animal kingdom of Rajaji National Park. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides whose expertise in tracking and interpreting the subtle signs of the forest is unparalleled, you'll unravel the secrets of the wild world.
To behold the untamed wonders of Rajaji National Park through a camera lens is to embark on a quest that transcends mere sightseeing. As you venture into the park's verdant depths, you may spot a majestic tiger emerging from the dappled shadows. With the guidance of seasoned trackers and safari guides, you'll navigate through the jungle, their knowledge and intuition leading you to the most elusive subjects. From capturing the graceful arc of a bird in flight to framing the piercing gaze of a leopard amidst the foliage, every click becomes a fond memory of your visit.
