Main Info
Ranthambore Tourism
Situated in the lower hills of Aravali and Vindhya Hills, Ranthambore is one of the most popular tiger reserves in the world. The region of Ranthambore is rich in both cultural and natural heritage. In addition to Ranthambore National Park, there is also a majestic Ranthambore Fort that encircles the nearby hills. The jungle of these hills is home to myriad species of flora and fauna and hence, is a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Spread over an area of about 392 km square, this national park is an ideal place for bird gazing and to observe animals in their natural dwellings.
This tiger reserve inhabits the friendliest tigers and hence, the chance of spotting a tiger here is higher in comparison to other tiger reserves in the country. You will be thrilled by the safari rides which will, in turn, provide you with an opportunity to explore the wildlife of this conservation park.
A majestic fort named the Ranthambore Fort is also situated adjacent to the national park. This fort was constructed by the rulers of the Chauhan Dynasty in the 10th century. It has recently been nominated as one of the world heritage sites by UNESCO. There are many Hindu and Jain temples located within the premise of the fort. Trinetra Ganesha Temple is the most popular shrine in the region which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and receives a huge surge of devotees throughout the year. The other two temples are devoted to Ramlalaji and Lord Shiva. You can also find two Jain temples within the fort that are dedicated to Lord Sambhavnath and Lord Sumantinath.
There are also two beautiful lakes within the fort’s premises. In addition to the peaceful ambience, the surroundings around Padam Lake and the Surwal Lake provide the perfect location for bird gazing. A splendid mansion made of red sandstones named Jogi Mahal is positioned right next to Padam Lake. The view of the lake from the palace with lush greenery in the backdrop is definitely a treat to the sore eyes. There are other famous nearby attractions such as Kachida valley where you can spot bears and panthers.
More on Ranthambore
Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park is one of the most visited tiger reserves in the country and the friendly nature of tigers here makes is easier for the travelers to spot them. The safaris are well prepared and you can choose the safaris slot and type that suits you the best. The tigers here are camera-friendly and hence, you can capture their awesome pictures. At times they are outside the main reserve and it is possible for you to sight one without a ticket! The safari is operational during the months of October till May and it remains shut throughout the monsoon season.
There are two timing slots for safaris and the reserve closes for the general public usually during sunset. The entry tickets are to be purchased at the entrance and you will have to pay an extra fee if you want to carry video cameras inside. The trails of jungle safari are rough, dusty, and bumpy thereby, adding to the rawness of the place. Moreover, it is advisable to avoid heavy meals before going on a safari.
Spread over an area of about 392 sq. km, this conservation area is also home to other animals such as chital, leopard, sloth bear, nilgai, wild boar, hyena, and sambar. It is also home to a wide variety of trees, plants, birds, and reptiles.
Safari in Ranthambore
If you crave an adventurous trip in the wild then Ranthambore is a perfect getaway for you. You ought to explore the wildlife by going on a safari ride and there are various options for the same. You can book either a two-seater Cantera bus service or a 6-seater Gypsy SUV. A gypsy safari is better as there are fewer people and it can take you through the deepest parts of the jungle, whereas, the navigation is inefficient and problematic with Canter bus service. You need not worry about safety during the trip as you will be accompanied by a guide with each type of safari.
The ideal time to visit the national park is during the autumn and spring months as the weather during this time of the year is pleasant. However, tiger sightings are more in the summer season. There are two safari slots, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. The month-wise safari timing slot is listed below:
1st October to 31st October: 7.00 a.m. to 10.30 a.m.; 2.30 p.m. to 6.00 p.m.
1st November to 31st January: 7.00 a.m. to 10.30 a.m.; 2.00 p.m. to 5.30 p.m.
1st February to 31st March: 6.30 a.m. to 10.00 a.m.; 2.30 p.m. to 6.00 p.m.
1st April to 15th May: 6.00 a.m. to 9.30 a.m.; 3.00 p.m. to 6.30 p.m.
15th May to 30th June: 6.00 a.m. to 9.30 a.m.; 3.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m.
Note:
The safari timing slots is different for winter and summer months.
The safari remains closed for three months from July to September due to the rains.
Safari Charges:
Canter (Diesel): INR 334 (Indians); INR 313 (Indian student); INR 513 (Foreigners)
Canter (Petrol): INR 364 (Indians); INR 344 (Indian student); INR 544 (Foreigners)
Gypsy: INR 429 (Indians); INR 408 (Indian students); INR 608 (non-Indians)
To avoid the hassle, you can select a safari slot and book it online. Or, you can walk down to the local booking office an hour or two before to book a seat. You can also contact your hotel employees to book safaris for you.
Wildlife In Ranthambore
Ranthambore is rich in diverse species of flora and fauna. The tiger reserve is famous for Diurnal species of tiger and various other animals, birds, and reptiles. The park has a total of 320 varieties of birds, 40 varieties of mammals, and 35 varieties of reptiles, and, migratory as well as domestic.
This place is a paradise for bird watchers and attracts tourists worldwide. You can also spot other species of wild cats such as Fishing Cats, Leopards, Jungle Cats, Caracals, Rusty Spot Cats, etc.
What to wear while traveling to Ranthambore?
During the summer months which lasts from April to June, the weather is extremely hot. It is highly recommended to wear light cotton clothes of the coolest colors. Don’t forget to carry a cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your eyes and skin from sunburns.
The weather during the winter months of November to February is cool and pleasant. It might get very cold during December and January, so it is advisable to carry woolen clothes. It is also desirable to wear clothes of sober- khaki colors, which can blend with the surroundings. The animals might get scared if you wear too bright or neon colors and stand out from the scenery.
Restaurants and Local Food in Ranthambore
Ranthambore does not have fancy restaurants or cuisine, however, the hotel here will provide you with a myriad Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine. While commuting, it’s preferable to stick to local dhabas and eateries.
Itinerary
Once you reach Ranthambore, check-in to your hotel and freshen up. After lunch, you can head to the national park and undertake afternoon safari rides. Make sure you carry caps in summers and heavy woolens in winters. Wear comfortable shoes and carry enough water bottles along. The ride is completed in three hours and after that, you can take a walk alongside the lake or head back to your hotel. You can visit the souvenir shop to buy a few handicrafts and artifacts that are made by local people.
Wake up early and after a light breakfast, head for the morning safari ride. Later, you can head towards Kachida Valley to spot a few animals like panthers and bears. Once you are done with exploring places around, head towards the majestic Ranthambore Fort to get a mesmerizing view of the surroundings and the fort. In the later part of the day, you can spend the time exploring the temples and a dargah situated within the fort premise.
You can extend your visit to Ranthambore for a day and visit the famous Ranthambore School of Art. Also, if you happen to visit the place in January, you can attend the Sawai Madhopur Utsav which is held on the 19th of January every year.