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Some time back, the current official count of tigers at Ranthambhore National Park was uninspiring 26. Given the size of the park, which spread over 392.5 sq km, it seems like a remote possibility to come across the tiger, which of late has become elusive. But there is hope and trends suggest that Ranthambore is best known for its almost assured tiger sightings, as the tigers here are reputed to have become fearless of human company and are often sighted during the daytime. Tigers in the Ranthambore can be spotted easily in their natural habitat during daytime particularly at the confluence of three lakes- Padam Talab, Raj Bagh Talab and Milak Talab. The park also has a large number of panthers seen in plenty after the tigers at Kachida Valley and commonly seen at the outskirts of the park.

Though tigers enjoy their hegemony in the Ranthambore National Park, there are other animals as well that make a wildlife tour to Ranthambore an experience to cherish. The park is home to rich and diverse variety of flora and fauna, which includes more than 50 aquatic plants, 300 trees, 12 reptiles and 30 mammals. Apart from the tiger, the other common animals in the park are sloth bear, wild boar, leopard, chinkara, porcupines, jackals, sambhar, chital, nilgai, gazzelle, boars, mongoose, Indian hare, monitor lizards and a large number of birds. Most of these wild animals can be spotted near the lakes and water bodies during the evening.

Ranthambhore Fort: Situated at the meeting point of the Vindhya and the Aravalli hill ranges, the fort, after which the National Park is named, is believed to have been built in 944 AD and is considered one of the strongest forts in the country. The fort was occupied by Raja Hamir for many years until the siege by Allaudin Khilji’s army in 1301 AD forced the Rajput king to surrender. The walk up to the fort’s ramparts is tiring but the view of the park and its three lakes from the top is worth the effort.

Ganesh Temple: The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is located inside the Ranthambhore Fort, within the precincts of the park, about 15 km from Sawai Madhopur. The temple is centre of activity during the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, when tourists and locals flock at the temple.

Jogi Mahal: Jogi Mahal is located at the foot of the fort and is home to the country’s second largest banyan tree. The Forest Rest House (stay not permitted) at Jogi Mahal offers stunning views of the Padam Talao, which is awash with water lilies.

The Ranthambhore School of Art: Situated on the road that leads up to the park, the Ranthambore School of Art consists of painters from local villages. The main subjects of their paintings of course are the majestic tigers of Ranthambore. The paintings depict the king of the jungle in its full glory. Stalking their prey, emerging from the undergrowth, playing with their cubs and resting on the ruins in the park - the tigers of Ranthambore can be seen in different moods and backgrounds here.

Safari fee Rs. 1,350
Vehicle Entry fee Rs. 125
Guide fee Rs 150
Safari timings 6.30-10 am, 1.30-5.30 pm.
Bookings can be done at RTDC Hotel Vinayak,
Tel: 07462-221333.

Places to stay in Ranthambore National Park
There are a number of good accommodation options in Ranthambore, most of them scattered on Ranthambore Road. Hotels in Ranthambore range from budget to luxury hotels. There are lodges and wildlife resorts as well, where you can stay. Check hotels in Rantahmbore

By Air: The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is the nearest airport to Ranthambore. Ranthambore National Park is about 140 Km from Jaipur. You can fly to Jaipur and proceed to Sawai Madhopur by road or rail.

By Rail: Sawai Madhopur which is just 11 Km from Ranthambore National Park is easily accessible by rail and is on the main route from Delhi to Mumbai. You can arrive at Sawai Madhopur by rail and take a car or bus to Ranthambore National Park.

By Road: Ranthambore is easily accessible by road from all destinations across Rajasthan. There are many options from luxury air-conditioned coaches to private taxis and local buses of the Rajasthan Transport Corporation, in which you can reach Ranthambore National Park.

Check Driving Directions from Jaipur to Ranthambore National Park