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Wildlife travel is one of the most exciting and adventurous excursions. One can undertake such a trip to Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan. It is situated in Sawai Madhopur, a major hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur in the pre-independence era.
Ranthambore National Park is known for its tiger population and safaris. The big cats in the park have amazed many travellers and photographers. Ranthambore also serves as a popular weekend getaway from Jaipur (180km) and Delhi (370km).
A view of Ranthambore National Park
Photo Courtesy: http://www.flickr.com/photos/anilr/
History of Ranthambore
Raja Sajraj Veer Singh Nagil was the first ruler of Ranthambore and during his time the province was developed extensively (880-935 AD). During the reign of Maharajas of Jaipur in 17th C, the area around Ranthambore fort was a main hunting ground.
In 1957, the area was proclaimed as a wildlife sanctuary. Subsequently, 'Project Tiger' was introduced in 1974, owing to the protection of tiger population. Later, along with Sawai Man Singh Wildlife Sanctuary, Ranthambore was declared a national park in 1981.
A beautiful peacock in the park
Photo Courtesy: Björn Ognibeni
Best Time to Visit Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park is open for public only from 1st Octobar to 31st June. The forest department organises safaris in canters (20 seater) and jeeps (6 seater).
The safari timings differ in various seasons. In winter, morning trips ( 7 AM - 10.30 AM) and evening trips (2 PM - 6 PM). In summer, morning trips (6 AM - 9.30 AM) and evening trips (3 PM - 7 PM).
However, it is better to check the timings in the official website and book it online before your visit.
Climate
The weather in winter will be extremely cold and it is mandatory to carry sweaters, jackets, mufflers, gloves, etc. Summers are very hot and even thin clothes seem warm. Better to carry hats, sunscreen and goggles in this time.
A tiger at Ranthambore
Photo Courtesy: JULIAN MASON
Wildlife in Ranthambore
Tigers are the kings in Ranthambore National Park and they're also the major attractions. Most of the visitors will get to see the big cats and hear the spine-chilling roars in the park. The area is spread across 500 sq km and it is also a home for leopards, hyena, rhesus macaque and varieties of birds.
Places to Visit in Ranthambore National Park
The area of Ranthambhore National Park was ruled by various kings. Hence, the place has a few remaining historical sites which can be visited.
The picturesque Ranthambore Fort
Photo Courtesy: Gopalsinghal
Ranthambore Fort
Ranthambore Fort is one of the prominent attractions inside the park. It is located on a hill and served as a forest lodge for the Maharajas of Jaipur. Ranthambore Fort along with few other forts, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the hill forts of Rajasthan in 2013. It is advisable to visit the fort with a professional guide as it is more safe.
Tiger with its prey
Photo Courtesy: JULIAN MASON
Raj Bagh Ruins
Raj Bagh Ruins consists of ancient structures, Padam Talao (lake) and Jogi Mahal. You can get some splendid photos of this place with a historical touch. Raj Bagh Talao (lake) is one of the picturesque and largest water sources in the park.
These are some of the prominent places to visit in Ranthambore National Park.
Accommodation in Ranthambore
Ranthambore has many hotels and resorts which cater to all kinds of travellers. People can find expensive options to a few reasonable ones. However, tourists need a good budget to visit Ranthambore because of the safari and stay.
Safari in Ranthambore
Photo Courtesy: JULIAN MASON
Reaching Ranthambore
Sawai Madhopur Railway Station is 13km to the park and one can also take other transports like cabs and buses from the cities like Jaipur, Bharatpur, Delhi, etc. Ranthambore is well connected to the city centers and easy to reach.
A well planned visit to Ranthambore National Park will make your trip memorable. Patience is the key here because animals can be seen only if they come in your way.
