How to Reach Rajaji National Park – Your Gateway to the Wilderness of Uttarakhand

Rajaji National Park, located in the foothills of the Shivalik ranges in Uttarakhand, is a pristine paradise for nature lovers. Spread across Dehradun, Haridwar, and Pauri Garhwal districts, this park is famous for its Asian elephants, leopards, tigers, and more than 300 species of birds.

Whether you're visiting for a wildlife safari, birdwatching, or a quiet escape into nature, here's a comprehensive guide on how to reach Rajaji National Park by air, train, and road.

✈️ By Air: Nearest Airport to Rajaji National Park

The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED) — only about 35 km from the park’s main entry gates.

✅ Airport Code: DED✔ Distance to Chilla Gate (Haridwar side): ~35 km✔ Distance to Motichur and Asharodi Gates (Dehradun side): 20–30 km📌 Taxis and cabs are easily available at the airport for direct travel to park gates or nearby towns

🚆 By Train: Best Railway Stations for Rajaji National Park

Rajaji is well-connected by rail, with Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun being the primary stations.

1. Haridwar Railway Station (HW)✅ Ideal if you're visiting the Chilla or Motichur zones✔ Frequent trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Varanasi📌 From Haridwar, the Chilla gate is just 10 km away

2. Rishikesh Railway Station (RKSH)✅ Nearest station to the Chilla and Kunao zones✔ Well connected via short-distance trains📌 Just 8–10 km from major park gates

3. Dehradun Railway Station (DDN)✅ Best for visiting Asharodi and Mohand gates✔ Major trains from Delhi, Lucknow, Amritsar, and more📌 15–25 km from park entry points on the Dehradun side

🚗 By Road: Drive or Taxi to Rajaji National Park

Rajaji is very well connected by road to nearby cities and even metro hubs like Delhi.

✅ From Haridwar: ~10 km

✅ From Rishikesh: ~10 km

✅ From Dehradun: ~25 km

✅ From Delhi: ~220 km (5–6 hours via NH334)

📌 State-run buses, private taxis, and self-drive cars are all viable. Roads are in good condition throughout the year.

🚪 Entry Gates & Zones

Rajaji has multiple entry gates, spread across different towns:

Zone	Entry Gate	Nearest Town
Chilla Zone	Chilla Gate	Haridwar / Rishikesh
Motichur Zone	Motichur Gate	Haridwar
Kunao Zone	Kunao Gate	Rishikesh
Asharodi Zone	Asharodi Gate	Dehradun
Mohand Zone	Mohand Gate	Dehradun

✅ Jeep safaris and eco-cottages are available at most gates📌 Safari booking can be done online via the UK Forest Department or through local operators

🧭 Travel Tips

• 📅 Best time to visit: November to June (park closed during monsoon)

• 🕐 Safari Timings: Morning and evening (book at least a day in advance)

• 🧳 Essentials: ID proof, warm clothes in winter, binoculars, camera, sunscreen

• ⚠ Avoid weekends and public holidays for a quieter experience

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🌿 Rajaji – A Blend of Wilderness, Spirituality, and Serenity

Few national parks in India offer the perfect combination of wildlife, rivers, forests, and spiritual towns like Rajaji does. Whether you're visiting for a day trip or planning a longer stay in Rishikesh or Haridwar, Rajaji National Park is a must-explore for every nature lover.