A Foreigner Nature tour at Rajaji National Park
A group of 22 travelers from Estonia embarked on a nature tour to experience the natural wonders of the Rajaji National Park and its surrounding areas.
On the first day, October 9th, at 10 AM, the group was picked up from Rishikesh by taxis and brought to a designated spot near a resort within the Rajaji National Park. At this location, four safari jeeps and a luggage loader were already prepared for the guests, with everyone comfortably accommodated in these vehicles.
The group was joined by four experienced guides, and then the jeeps set off for the safari adventure, starting at the entry gate of Rajaji National Park, known as the Gauri Range gate. From there, the guests had the opportunity to enjoy the safari and explore the beautiful natural surroundings.
This journey was a chance for our Estonian visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of Rajaji National Park and the natural beauty that this region has to offer.
During This Journey
During this journey, we had the pleasure of encountering various species of birds, deer, and wild boars, and even heard the distant calls of elephants in the wilderness. The path we followed meandered along the tranquil Sukhi Binj River, where small streams flowed at different points, enhancing the picturesque landscape.
This route was nestled between towering mountains on both sides, with the Binj River flowing through its center. Our safari adventure spanned a delightful two hours, and by 1 PM, we had ventured deep into the heart of Rajaji National Park, reaching a secluded wild nature camp. At this camp, a warm welcome awaited us, accompanied by refreshing drinks like tea, coffee, and lemon water.
Subsequently, all guests were assigned to their respective camps according to designated camp numbers. Our journey through Rajaji National Park was a remarkable experience, offering us glimpses of diverse wildlife and the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.
At 2 PM, all the guests had the pleasure of savoring delicious Indian cuisine, and there was an arrangement for massage therapy amidst the natural surroundings. Nearly half of the group opted to enjoy this in the lap of nature.
In the evening, at 4:30 PM, as per the plan, we set off for a trek in the Thamanda region, which covered a distance of approximately 8 kilometers (4 kilometers each way). During this trek, we had the opportunity to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of Rajaji National Park from a considerable elevation, with views of the entire river bend of the Binj River. The landscape was a sight to behold, with an evening sunset, mild and cool winds, and more experiences, such as birdwatching where we spotted woodpeckers, oriental turtle doves, and minivet birds, to name a few.
As darkness fell, we returned to the camp, where a well-prepared evening snack of tea, coffee, and pakoras awaited the guests, rejuvenating them after the trek. To enhance the guests’ enjoyment of nature, a bonfire and music were arranged.
Amidst the serene ambiance, guests engaged in bhajan (devotional songs), kirtan, and even danced to some Bollywood tunes. Everyone was in high spirits, enjoying the festivities. Dinner was served at 9:30 PM, and as per their preferred schedules, guests retired to their respective camps to rest.
The following day, at 7 AM, all guests were served a hearty breakfast. Subsequently, amidst the natural surroundings, all guests practiced yoga and meditation, embracing the pleasant weather and the possibility of rainfall, which made the atmosphere incredibly refreshing. After breakfast at 8:30 AM, as per the plan, all guests embarked on another trek to experience nature.
The journey led us to the nearby Gujaradi village, and the route was exceptionally beautiful, requiring us to cross streams at various points. All the guests thoroughly enjoyed this experience. Upon reaching the village, a shortcut trail was taken, which was a 900-meter hiking trail.
Upon entering the village of Gujaradi, all guests were introduced to the unique culture of this hillside village. The local residents’ way of life, their traditional hill-style architecture, farming techniques, and more, were explained by our guides. At the final stage of the trek, foreign guests were shown a water mill (gharāṭ) and provided with information about its operation. This ancient method of grinding coarse grains into flour continues to be practiced today.
Everyone returned to the camp by 11 AM. During this trek, we experienced light rainfall at a couple of places, which added to the adventure. Upon reaching the camp, all guests were offered refreshing lemon water.
After the trek, all guests prepared to visit the Vindhyavasini Temple, which was located 4 kilometers from the camp. This temple is of great mythological significance. Near the temple, there was another water mill (gharāṭ), where all the guests enjoyed some refreshments. Afterward, a unique river crossing experience was arranged, where guests formed a human chain to cross the river, demonstrating the rich tradition and culture of the area.
The temple is located at an elevation of approximately 100 meters, and there was a hiking route of about 400 meters. So after crossing the river, guest started hiking and reach at the temple in 15 minutes. At the temple, guests offered their prayers, received blessings, and enjoyed the serene atmosphere. They meditated and sang devotional songs, including a hymn to Goddess Durga, followed by a 5-minute meditation. As a gesture of respect, guests made donations to the temple.
Descending from the temple, everyone boarded the jeeps and embarked on a safari back to the same resort where our journey had begun the previous day. It was around 2:30 PM, and lunch was ready. Guests relished the delicious meal, with a special treat of rasgulla. Some guests couldn’t resist taking a dip in the swimming pool due to the warm weather.
At 5 PM, the guests, who had previously arranged for taxis, departed for Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar to witness the evening Ganga Aarti. They actively participated in the Aarti and returned to their resort in Rishikesh by 8 PM.
And so, this tour came to a fulfilling conclusion.