Trekking the Rajaji: Rishikesh's Hidden Wildlife Sanctuary

Just 20 kilometres from the busy ghats of Rishikesh, the forest swallows all sound. Here in Rajaji National Park, the Shivalik hills fold one into another, harbouring elephants, leopards, and over 400 bird species.

The Chilla range is the most accessible from Rishikesh, and a morning jeep safari during the winter months — November to March — offers excellent sightings of wild elephants.

For on-foot explorers, the 12-kilometre Chilla loop trail passes through teak and sal forest, crossing seasonal streams and ascending to a ridge with views of both the Ganges valley and the higher Garhwal peaks.

Evara Trips arranges full-day Rajaji safaris led by certified naturalists who have spent years studying the park's wildlife corridors.