Rajaji National Park was formed by consolidating three sanctuaries namely Chilla,
Motichur and Rajaji and covers an area of 820 sq. km. The area lies towards the east
of the Dehradun-Roorkee highway.
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 viewing
wild life. 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.
These Elephant back safaris take one through bamboo thickets and elephant grass.
There are watchtowers located over water holes and motorable tracks taking one to
areas around the park where wildlife can be spotted as one drives along. Herds of
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.
