Once a hunting ground of the erstwhile Maharajas of Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park and Tiger Reserve prides itself for being home of the majestic royal Bengal tiger. About 14km from Sawai Madhopur district in Rajasthan, the sanctuary happens to be a popular destination among wildlife enthusiasts.
In 1955, the national park was founded as a Game Sanctuary by the Indian Government and later in 1973, it got listed under “Project Tiger”. Photography enthusiasts from all over the country come here to take the best shots of their life. Apart from tigers, a visitor will also witness a huge variety of flora and fauna.
Bakaula
A thick forest region, Bakaula is the region in the national park which has maximum abundance of wildlife. It is also the coolest area of the forest and has many small pools and water holes where tigers and other animals come to drink water.
Kachida Valley
The valley is full of rocky outcrops and low hill, hence majority of Panther population live here.
Lakarda Anantpura
Located in the North-Western and Northern regions of the park, this is an ideal location to look Sloth Bears. Pugmarks of the Indian striped Hyenas are also seen here.
Ruins of Raj Bagh
Found between the Padam Talao (lake) and the Raj Bagh Talao, these ancient stone arches, domes and steps are where the resident tigers are found wandering.
Padam Talao
One of the largest lakes in the park, it is always adorned with white lilies. On its banks are Jogi Mahal where animals are seen in large numbers.
Ranthambore Fort
The mighty powerful fort inside the Ranthambore National Park has seen an immense number of attacks and conquests. It was built in the mid of 10th century, during the rule of Sapaldaksha. While on a trip to the national park, this fort is a must visit.
Rajbagh and Malik Talao
The most beautiful lake in the park, Rajbagh Talao is the favourite haunt of sambhar deer and birds like egrets. Smallest of the three lakes, Malik Talao is the dwelling place of the Indian Marsh Crocodiles.
Flora and Fauna of Ranthambore
Ranthambore National Park is home to more than 300 species of plants, out of which majority are dry deciduous plants, Banyan and Peepal trees. Among others, one will find Mango, Jamun (blackberry) trees alongwith Babul, Gurjan, Tamarind, Kadam, Chhila, Ber, Khajur, Khair, Mahua, Kulu, Ronj, Salar and Tendu can also be spotted easily.
Fauna to watch out for include Bengal Tiger, Leopard Cat, Fishing Cat, Jungle Cat, Sloth Bear, Striped Hyena, Desert Fox, Indian Gazelle (chinkara), Rat Snakes, Russel’s Vipers, and Cobras. Alongwith the animals, one will find around 300 species of birds, that include Cormorant, Painted Spurfowl, Sarus Crane, Bronzed Winged Jacana, Sandpiper, Nightjar, Painted Sandgrouse, and Great Horned Owl.
The most popular and thrilling activity in the park is Tiger Safari on a jeep and also bird watching tour. Visitors can opt for a 6-seater Gypsy Safari or the 20-seater Canter Safari and enjoy the journey while spotting the tigers and other animals.
Luxury Hotels to Stay
Vivanta by Taj
Once known as the Sawai Madhopur Lodge, this heritage hotel is more than 80 years old. Having served as a rest house to Maharaja of Jaipur, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, the hotel till date is celebrated for its unsurpassed services.
The Oberoi Vanyavilas
Sprawling over an area of 20 acres, this luxury jungle resort is surrounded with breathtaking natural beauty. 25 beautifully crafted air-conditioned Swiss tents are outfitted with contemporary high-end facilities. All tents have teak wood floors and have embroidered canopies, private gardens and deluxe bathrooms.
Hotel Nahargarh Fort
The royal palace of Nahargarh is a heritage hotel with 68 air-conditioned luxury rooms. Nestled in the Aravali hills range, the 16th century fortress offers excellent services and facilities. It has outstanding color scheme, ambience and style. make it a popular luxury hotel offering absolutely comfortable stay.
Other Luxury hotels to stay are Khem Vilas, Dev Vilas, Aman-i-Khas and Sher Bagh.
Luxury trains
Marvel at the splendid beauty of Ranthambore as you enjoy a royal tour on luxury trains like Palace on Wheels, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, Maharaja Express and Deccan Odyssey’s Indian Odyssey and Indian Sojourn. Bathed in luxury and opulence, take a trip to the bygone era of royalty.
Best time to Visit Ranthambore National Park
October to April is the best time to visit Ranthambore National Park, the home of majestic Tigers. This is the time when chances of spotting the tiger is more. Summers (April to June) are hot but game drive is fun during this time. Only during the monsoon season, July to September, the park is closed. This is the mating season of the animals, hence visitors are not allowed.
Timings for Safari:
1st October to 31st October: 6.30 A.M. to 10.00 A.M. (Morning), 2.30 P.M. to 6.00 P.M. (Evening)
1st November to 31st January : 7.00 A.M. to 10.30 A.M. (Morning), 2.00 P.M. to 5.30 P.M.(Evening)
1st February to 31st March:6.30 A.M. to 10.00 A.M. (Morning), 2.30 P.M. to 6.00 P.M.(Evening)
1st April to 15th May: 6.00 A.M. to 9.30 A.M. (Morning), 3.00 P.M. to 6.30 P.M. (Evening)
15th May to 30th June: 6.00 A.M. to 9.30 A.M.(Morning), 3.30 P.M. to 7.00 P.M. (Evening)
By Air
Jaipur airport at 180 km from Ranthambore is the nearest airport. From you can either take a train or hire a taxi to go to Sawai Madhopur.
By Rail
Sawai Madhopur at 10 km from Ranthambore is the nearest railway station.
By Road
State-run and private buses are easily available in Ranthambore. Taxi cabs can also be hired.
