International Observance of Nature Conservation Day 2025: Highlighting the Rajaji Raghati Biosphere Reserve in Uttarakhand
The Rajaji Raghati Biosphere, a 35-acre private forest initiative located within the Rajaji Tiger Reserve, is approximately a 4-hour drive from Delhi. This biosphere project, led by ecologist Vijay Dhasmana and environmentalist Jai Dhar Gupta, focuses on nature conservation integrated with local community welfare and habitat restoration.
The primary objectives of the project include rewilding degraded landscapes by reintroducing indigenous flora to revive natural habitats, promoting human-wildlife coexistence, and conserving regional biodiversity through ecosystem restoration and sustainable practices that support native species.
As part of the rewilding efforts, diverse plant species such as Shorea robusta, Terminalia alata, Anogeissus latifolia, and others will be introduced. The initiative aims to create a native forest and a limited number of sustainable residences, with the objective of restoring the natural habitat and promoting co-existence with the environment.
The Rajaji Raghati Biosphere is closed during the monsoon season (mid-June to mid-November). However, visitors can look forward to a variety of amenities such as a groundwater swimming pool, communal fireplace, Machan, yoga arena, and sustainable tourism experiences at Dhanaulti Eco Park, which is located in the region.
Adventure seekers and nature lovers will find the Rajaji Raghati Biosphere an exciting destination, as it is situated near Rajaji National Park, home to various wildlife including tigers, elephants, leopards, and diverse birds. The spiritual city of Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," offering spiritual retreats, yoga ashrams, and adventure activities, is a short drive away. Haridwar, a revered pilgrimage city with historic temples and ghats, is nearby and serves as a gateway to the Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
The focus of the initiative extends beyond combating climate change to establish a harmonious model of cohabitation. The Rajaji Raghati Biosphere will not be a regular tourist hotspot but will offer nature therapy, conscious living, and a first-hand experience of plant growth and various garden crops. This unique biosphere project represents one of India's emerging efforts in biosphere conservation.
[1] "Rajaji Raghati Biosphere: A New Approach to Conservation in Uttarakhand." Indian Journal of Forestry Research. 2022.
[4] "Sustainable Living Meets Wildlife Conservation: The Rajaji Raghati Biosphere Project." The Times of India. 2022.
- Embracing sustainable living, the Rajaji Raghati Biosphere project adds home-and-garden elements to its eco-conscious residences, creating a harmonious model for conservation and cohabitation.
- In line with the biosphere's focus on nature restoration, the planned sustainable residences will promote a lifestyle centered around the reintroduction of indigenous flora and the preservation of regional biodiversity.
