There are approximately 21 tigers in this extensive area and a bigger population of leopard in the upper regions of the park.  It is generally easier to sight the elusive leopard in certain areas like Chilla.  Tigers are difficult to spot on account of the dense cover, which lies in the core areas of the Park, which are not open to tourists.

Chilla, which is the region open to tourists, is probably the best for game viewing.  It is also very scenic as it affords views of the mighty Ganga, as well as the Himalayas to the North, together with a large reservoir for water birds.  It is located close to the religious center of Haridwar and is just about 20 km away from Rishikesh.  At Chilla proper, where the residential complex is located, in a large opening in thick Sal forests, there are two domesticated elephants, which can be used for game viewing rounds.  These Elephant back safaris take one through bamboo thickets and elephant grass.  There are watchtowers located over water holes and jeepable tracks taking one to areas around the park where wildlife can be spotted as one drives along.  Herds of the Spotted Deer are fairly common to spot.  The other animals that can be spotted in the Chilla wildlife sanctuary are the wild boar, Sambhar Deer, the Grey Langur, the Red Rhesus Macaque, the Barking Deer, the Peacock, Quails, Hornbills, Hawks, Falcons, Vultures and many other birds of prey.

FULL DAY ITINERARY

0530 hrs - Leave Ananda driving via Rishikesh - Kumaon (along the Canal), via Bindvasni (on Bindvasni nala) - Chilla.  Arrive at Chilla entrance gate at 0630 hrs.

0630 hrs - Commence game viewing drive of approx. 15 kms. on jungle tracks on the Chilla - Mundhal - Mithawali - Khara circuit and back to Chilla.  Enroute stop over at Gujjar settlement to see the way they live.  Return to the Forest Rest House Complex by 0830 hrs.

Breakfast at Forest Rest House (FRH) at Chilla.  After breakfast, visit the Elephant stables and look around the complex.

Drive to the Beach of the Ganga at the edge of the forest - relax and swim in the water.  Hot lunch served here with beer.

1530 hrs - Return to FRH Complex for elephant ride of approx. 1.5 hrs. into forest.  Finish ride latest by 1715/1730 hrs.

Drive to Haridwar (15 minutes) to walk around the - Har ki Pauri bathing ghats and observe the evening Aarti Ceremony.

Return to Narendranagar on the highway Haridwar - Rishikesh - Narendaranagar in the dark - in time for Dinner - 1.25 hrs. drive from Haridwar.

(Rajaji National Park closure till 15th November)