Rajaji Tiger Reserve’s Chilla Range will reopen for tourists this November, bringing back elephant-back jungle safaris after several years. The major attraction this season will be the 27-year-old tusker ‘Raja’, once feared as a killer elephant but now known for his calm and disciplined nature.
In 2019, Raja created panic in Haridwar’s BHEL area after killing three people. Following the incident, he was captured and rehabilitated in the Chilla Range. Over time, his behaviour changed completely, and he is now considered the most obedient elephant in the reserve.
Currently, the elephant enclosure at Chilla houses seven elephants—three males, three females, and one calf. Tourists will be able to enjoy safaris on elephants including Radha (37), Rangili (38), Raja (27), Rani (12), Johnny (9), and Kamal (3).
Kanchan Nautiyal, in charge of the elephant enclosure, said Raja now follows every command and has become the most gentle elephant in the range. “After years of hard work, Raja is now living a peaceful and happy life,” she said.
Ranger Bijendra Datt Tiwari stated that elephant safaris will resume after the park gates open in November. The safari charges will be announced soon after approval from the authorities.
