Ranipur – Beribara- Dholkhand
Nature Lover’s Paradise in Rajaji National Park
Ranipur ZONES
The southern belt of Rajaji West, stretching from Mohand Range in the west to Ranipur Range near Haridwar in the east, offers a diverse and captivating wildlife experience. Positioned on the warmer, sunnier side of the Shivaliks, this region differs from the cooler, Sal-rich slopes in the north. Historically, the area was heavily exploited for timber from the 1820s to the 1870s, which led to the absence of Sal trees. However, reforestation efforts beginning in the 1880s resulted in a rich mix of flora, including mixed miscellaneous forests and heat-tolerant species. The lower areas of this belt, particularly near the jeep track, are typical semi-arid Bhabhar regions, adding to the diversity of the landscape.
Visitors can explore the area through Ranipur or Mohand Gates, with Ranipur offering a more accessible route for wildlife sightings, including large mammals. The Dholkhand area, historically famous for being a VVIP hunting ground, is an important part of this belt. Rajaji himself famously declined a tiger hunt here. The region is also known for its human-wildlife conflict due to its proximity to fertile Terai farmland, mitigated by a 7-foot high boundary wall.
Diverse Flora and Fauna
Ideal for Leopard Spotting
This southern belt is rich in species diversity. The flora includes Cheer pine, Ber trees, Teak plantations, and beautiful Kusum trees, which turn scarlet in early summer. Saccharum grasslands appear along dry raos and in areas with sparse pine stands closer to the Shivalik ridgeline. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot small herds of elephants, especially during dry spells when they feed on grasses, bark, and wild fruit. The area is also home to solitary tuskers, with Rajaji’s dominant and occasionally aggressive males often seen. The belt also supports prey species like Sambar, Cheetal, Wild Boar, Nilgai, and Kakar, alongside occasional sightings of Leopards and smaller cats like the Jungle Cat and Leopard Cat.
The Ranipur – Beribara – Dholkhand belt is one of the best places in Rajaji to spot Leopards due to the abundant prey and limited tiger presence. Domestic dogs from nearby villages also attract large predators. The area’s water deficit is addressed with artificial waterholes at Andheri, Beribara, and Chillawali, further supporting the wildlife.
For a unique experience, visitors can stay overnight at the historic Beribara Forest Rest House (FRH), built in 1886. While meals need to be self-cooked, the location allows easy access to nearby areas like Chillawali and Dholkhand. Forest safaris are best conducted with a forest guard, especially due to the presence of solitary tuskers in the region.
Birdwatching and Wildlife Tracks
Conservation and Project Elephant
Birdlife in Rajaji West is diverse, with species like the Egyptian Vulture, Eurasian Griffon, Himalayan Griffon, and Steppe Eagle observed during various months. The region is also home to the stunning Indian Roller, known for its vibrant blue and turquoise colors. The area features a trans-Shivalik track that offers an opportunity to witness the changing foliage, especially in spring and early summer, with the possibility of encountering lone tuskers.
A significant feature of this belt is the large all-season bathing pool at Chillawali, which was created as part of a Project Elephant initiative in the late 1990s. This project provides clean water to both the wildlife and nearby villages, contributing to the overall conservation of the area.
In conclusion, the Ranipur – Beribara – Dholkhand belt of Rajaji West offers a remarkable blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and history. Its rich biodiversity, from leopards to tuskers, along with its unique flora and conservation efforts, make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.