Ranthambhore National Park
Ranthambore National Park
Nestled in the arid beauty of Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is a sanctuary of majestic landscapes, historical richness, and incredible wildlife diversity. Spanning across 1,334 square kilometres, it is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers alike. Famous for its thriving population of Bengal tigers, Ranthambore offers visitors a rare chance to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Many choose the popular Ranthambore wildlife safari tour from Delhi to embark on an unforgettable journey through this renowned reserve.
Ranthambore’s rugged terrain is characterised by rocky hills, vast grasslands, and ancient ruins, with the scenic Ranthambore Fort standing as a testament to the region’s historical importance. Dotted with lakes and rivers, the park boasts a variety of ecosystems that support a wide range of flora and fauna. Ancient banyan trees, tropical forests, and vibrant aquatic plants create an environment that attracts not only tigers but also leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 300 bird species.
Ranthambore National Park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, striped hyenas, and crocodiles. Herbivores like sambar deer, chital, nilgai, wild boars, and Indian gazelles are commonly spotted across its grasslands and forests. The park also boasts over 300 bird species, such as crested serpent eagles, kingfishers, and parakeets, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
History of Ranthambore National Park
The history of Ranthambore is intertwined with Rajasthan’s royal heritage. Originally a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, it was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and later gained national park status in 1980. Ranthambore Fort, which dates back to the 10th century, adds a unique historical layer to the park, offering visitors a glimpse into Rajasthan’s past as they explore this fort perched high above the park’s lush landscape.
Connectivity Options
By Air: Jaipur International Airport is the nearest airport, located around 180 kilometers from Ranthambore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park in about 3.5 to 4 hours.
By Train: Sawai Madhopur Railway Station, just 10 kilometres from the park, is well-connected with major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur, making it the most convenient way to reach Ranthambore by train.
By Road: Ranthambore is accessible by road from major cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states. The drive from Jaipur takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, with options for both private cabs and public buses.
Best Time to Visit Ranthambore National Park
The best time to explore Ranthambore is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant, and animal sightings are more frequent due to favorable conditions around water bodies. The park is closed from July to September due to the monsoon season, which brings heavy rains and makes the terrain difficult to navigate.
Top Tourist Places to Visit Near Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic fort offers breathtaking views of the park and is home to temples, palaces, and ancient ruins that tell the tales of Rajasthan’s glorious past.
Surwal Lake: A serene lake just outside the park, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying a tranquil escape amid nature.
Padam Talao: The largest lake within the park, Padam Talao is a popular spot for spotting wildlife, especially tigers and crocodiles, which often come to the lake to drink.b
Accommodation Options
Ranthambore Safari Tours offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets. From luxury resorts that offer spa services and gourmet dining to budget-friendly lodges and guesthouses, there are many ways to experience the park comfortably. Some resorts even provide special safari packages for an immersive wildlife experience. For peak seasons, advanced bookings are highly recommended.
Popular Attractions in Ranthambore
Trinetra Ganesh Temple
Situated inside the Ranthambore Fort, it is one of the oldest temples in Rajasthan. The statues of Lord Ganesha here consists of 3 eyes.
Kachida Valley
Located in close proximity to Ranthambore, Kachida Valley is home to a large population of panthers & sloths.
Raj Bagh Ruins
These are ancient stone ruins of palace outhouses, arches & domes. Surrounded by thick jungles, they are inhabited by tigers & can only be seen from a distance.
Bakaula
Dotted with several water holes, Bakaula offers a great opportunity of spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger & other wildlife.
Lakarda and Anantpura
Located in the northern & northwestern regions of Ranthambore, these regions are inhabited by a large number of sloths & a few striped hyenas.
Padam Talao
Princess Padmavati is believed to have bathed & committed sati here. You can spot a variety of animals, from Chinkara to the crocodiles.
