Forest Rest Houses of Rajaji National Park – Rajaji National Park, nestled amidst the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, offers a thrilling escape into the wild. To enhance this experience, the forest department manages a network of charming Forest Rest Houses (FRHs) scattered across the park. These heritage buildings, steeped in colonial history, provide a unique opportunity to stay immersed in the heart of the wilderness. Rajaji National Park also offers Resorts and a range of accommodation options for visitors, for a perfect stay in Rajaji. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the FRHs in Rajaji National Park:
1. Chilla FRH:
- Location: Chilla Tourism Zone, easily accessible from Haridwar
- Accommodation: Double-story building with 2 rooms on the ground floor (drawing-cum-dining) and 2 rooms on the first floor. An annex with additional rooms and a kitchen is also available.
- Amenities: Electricity, water, jeep safaris
- Specialties: Historical significance (built in 1883), proximity to wildlife viewing areas
2. Beribara FRH:
- Location: Beribara Zone, accessible from Ranipur Entry Gate
- Accommodation: Well-maintained rooms with basic amenities
- Amenities: Solar-powered lamps, jungle safaris
- Specialties: Off-the-beaten-path location, excellent leopard sightings
3. Motichur FRH:
- Location: Haridwar-Dehradun Highway, Motichur Tourism Zone
- Accommodation: 2 spacious suites with a drawing-dining room, sprawling lawns
- Amenities: Electricity, running water, self-cooking allowed
- Specialties: Bungalow-style architecture, nearby waterhole attracts elephants and herbivores
4. Meethawali FRH:
- Location: Chilla Tourism Zone, near Chilla FRH
- Accommodation: Basic rooms with limited amenities
- Amenities: Electricity, water
- Specialties: Historical significance (colonial hunting lodge), good base for exploring Chilla Range
Additional Information:
- Booking an FRH requires advanced planning, especially during peak season. Bookings can be made through the Uttarakhand Forest Department website.
- FRHs offer a basic, rustic experience. Don’t expect luxurious amenities like in-room bathrooms or air conditioning.
- Activities like nature walks, birdwatching, and jungle safaris can be arranged through the forest department.
- Some FRHs allow self-cooking, while others have catering facilities.
Here’s a table summarizing the key features of each FRH:
| FRH | Location | Accommodation | Amenities | Specialties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chilla | Chilla Tourism Zone | Double-story building, 4 rooms, annexe | Electricity, water, jeep safaris | Historical significance, wildlife viewing |
| Beribara | Beribara Zone | Well-maintained rooms | Solar-powered lamps, jungle safaris | Off-the-beaten-path, leopard sightings |
| Motichur | Motichur Tourism Zone | 2 suites, drawing-dining room, lawns | Electricity, running water, self-cooking | Bungalow-style, waterhole attracts wildlife |
| Meethawali | Chilla Tourism Zone | Basic rooms | Electricity, water | Historical significance, Chilla Range Exploration |
Bonus Tip: Pack warm clothes for cooler nights and a sense of adventure for an unforgettable wilderness experience!
Conclusion
By staying in a Forest Rest House, you become part of the Rajaji National Park experience. You’ll wake up to the sounds of birdsong, fall asleep under a blanket of stars, and have the chance to encounter the park’s diverse wildlife on your doorstep. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in the wilderness, consider booking an FRH for your next trip to Rajaji National Park.
FAQs on the Forest Rest Houses of Rajaji National Park:
1. How many FRHs are there in Rajaji National Park?
There are four main FRHs: Chilla, Beribara, Motichur, and Meethawali. Each offers a unique experience in different zones of the park.
2. What kind of amenities do the FRHs provide?
Amenities vary but typically include electricity, water, and jeep safari arrangements. Some have additional features like self-cooking facilities or solar-powered lamps. Don’t expect air conditioning or luxurious bathrooms.
3. How do I book an FRH stay?
Bookings must be made well in advance through the Uttarakhand Forest Department website. Peak season requires even earlier planning.
4. What activities can I do near the FRHs?
Enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and thrilling jungle safaris to spot wildlife. Some zones offer elephant interaction programs.
5. Are the FRHs suitable for families?
Some FRHs, like Chilla and Motichur, offer larger suites and more amenities suitable for families. Consider age and comfort preferences when choosing your stay.