Ranthambore National Park, located in the center of North India, is one of the largest and most popular wildlife parks in Rajasthan. Not only for its superb scenery. There is something about the story of these noble creatures that has made even tigers in captivity deep with romance. Located only 180 km from Jaipur, the closest air terminal being the newly opened international airport there, and 110 km from Kota, it is a wonderful habitat for wild animals and nature enthusiasts alike.
An Intro to Ranthambore’s Prolific Historical Past
The road to Ranthambore as a wildlife sanctuary started in 1955 when the Indian government declared it a Sawai Madhopur Gaming Sanctuary. As time progressed, it became a Project Tiger Reserve in 1973, and then the national park itself in 1980. In 1984, the surrounding forests were declared the Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary and Keladevi Sanctuary. In 1991, the tiger reserve was once again enlarged to incorporate the neighboring Sawai Mansingh and Kaladevi Sanctuaries, cementing Ranthambore’s position as a wildlife conservation bastion.
Tales and Triumphs of the Tigers in Ranthambore
Ranthambore is closely associated with tiger conservation, and it has a flourishing population of protected beasts. The park has ten zones, and the best for tiger viewing are surely those of 1-5. The land here is good for the tiger, and this dense foliage seems to offer the predatory creatures an excellent place in which to stalk prey. Ranthambore is a special case as it is the only Indian national park where tiger groups (mother and cub) can be seen in large numbers.
But over the years, the struggle to preserve Ranthambore’s tigers has indeed achieved splendid success. The number of tigers sighted in the park rose from 26 in 2005 to 34 adult beasts plus over ten cubs last year. But this success is a testament to the diligent conservation efforts and wildlife management authorities working around Ranthambore for tiger welfare.
Individual tigers have become local celebrities, recognized by their markings and turf. The famous tigers Machali (T-16), Dollar (T-25), Sitara (T-28), Bina One, Bina Two, and many others are all known by name to wildlife experts, photographic enthusiasts, and their masters in the jungle. In particular, with the tiger population flourishing there again, some have recently been moved to nearby reserves such as the Sariska Tiger Reserve.
Diverse Wildlife Beyond Tigers
Besides the tigers, Ranthambore has a diverse array of wildlife on offer. Among the more prominent residents are leopards, nilgai, wild boar, sambar, hyena, sloth bear, and chital. For birdwatchers, the reserve’s ecologically rich diversity also makes it a paradise for over 270 species of birds. The park’s conservationist ethic does not stop with the charismatic megafauna but also includes a total of 40 mammal species, 320 bird species, 40 reptile species two amphibians, and 50 butterfly species.
Safari Adventures in Ranthambore
Going on a safari in Ranthambore with India Wildlife Tour Package is an exhilarating activity, allowing us to glimpse the various zones of the park. The times of the safaris change depending on the seasons so that visitors have opportunities to see the changing wildlife at different hours of the day. The morning and evening safaris operate from October to March, each a different window through which one can look at Ranthambore’s flourishing ecology.
Luxurious Stays Amidst Nature’s Beauty
With its reputation as one of India’s top wildlife destinations, Ranthambore offers something for everyone–from high-end travelers to those on a budget. From 5-star hotels to low-cost lodges and camping out, Ranthambore has it all when it comes to accommodations. Each hotel and resort in Ranthambore offers comfortable facilities, making it an unforgettable stay amidst the wonders of nature.
The Right Time of Year to Go Ape Seeing in Ranthambore
The best time to visit Ranthambore is from November through March, the main tourist season, when all of the gates to safaris are open. During the monsoon season (July to mid-October), adventurous travelers can always stay on course and open up a few gates by exploring out of the park. Summer is the season for seeing tigers, and so wildlife photographers come with their cameras to capture that elusive picture.
Journeying to Ranthambore: Your Path to Wilderness
Reaching Ranthambore is a seamless experience, with multiple options available:
- By Air: The nearest airport is at Jaipur, only 180 km from the reserve area.
- By Rail: Located on the trunk line between Delhi and Mumbai, Sawai Madhopur railway station is 11 km from Ranthambore National Park.
- By Road: Ranthambore also has an excellent network of roads, and a car or taxi can be hired to take one on to Sawai Madhopur. Only 1.5 km away is the Kota-Ranthambore mega highway, which makes it convenient to get around.
Exploring Beyond the Wilderness: Places of Interest in Ranthambore
While Ranthambore’s main attraction is its wildlife, the region offers additional places of interest for a well-rounded experience:
- Trinetra Ganesh Temple: Located inside the Ranthambore Fort, this ancient temple is the oldest Ganesh In Rajasthan. Constructed by King Hammer, it enshrines an idol of three-eyed Lord Ganesha.
- Ranthambore Fort: situated 13 km from the Sawai Madhopur Railway Station, has an ancient fort built in 944 AD as background setting to the wildlife sanctuary. The renowned Ranthambore tigress Machali–the Queen of Ranthambore.
- Kachida Valley: The Kachida Valley, which lies on the periphery of the reserve, is dotted with outcrops and small hills. The shy Panther of Ranthambore has found its only remaining habitat there, at a distance from the main jungle area.
- Jogi Mahal: Jogi Mahal, which is known as a fort, has been listed within Ranthambore National Park.
Nearby Gems: Jaipur, Agra, and Bharatpur
While in Ranthambore, consider exploring the nearby attractions to enrich your travel experience:
- Jaipur: Just 180 km away, the Pink City of Jaipur with such marvels as City Palace, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, and Amber Fort, beckons. Explore the life and customs of this incredible metropolis.
- Agra: Agra, 247 km from Ranthambore, is the Taj Mahal. Admire the pinnacle of Mughal architecture and discover the romantic atmosphere that envelopes this classic symbol of love.
- Bharatpur: Bird lovers will find a paradise only 237 km away from Bharatpur. Being home to so many species of birds, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a haven for ornithologists at any time, and even more so in the winter migratory season.
Visit Ranthambore National Park, where the wilderness is flourishing and nature’s stories unfold with each turn. Whether it be the majestic tiger or the myriad varieties of plants and animals at Ranthambore, Discovery Prime Tour’s Ranthambhore Package truly offers a memorable journey to those wishing for the extraordinary in Rajasthan.