Lying
between Aravalli and Vindhya ranges, Ranthambore National Park is
characeterised by rocky ridges, hills, pools, lakes and open valleys. The
hunting ground of erstwhile Maharajas of Jaipur, Ranthambore was declared a
game sanctuary in 1955. After some years in 1980, it became a national park.
There are lake palaces, 'chhatris', old fortifications and a majestic
1,000-year-old fort, overlooking the park. The park stands as a model of
conservation for tigers. It is an ideal place to watch the hide and seek
played by various wild animals. One can easily spot tigers, Antelopes,
Nilgai, Sambhar, chital, Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, Chinkara, Porcupines and
Jackals, Leopard, Jungle Cat and Marsh Crocodile. The water bodies of the
park blooming with water lillies and lotuses are an added attraction of
Ranthambore.
Wildlife Attractions
in Ranthambore National Park
The tigers of Ranthambore are one of the most photographed in India. But of
course there's a lot more to Ranthambore Park than the Bengal tiger.
Wildlife lovers have the opportunity to study and explore around 300 species
of trees, 50 species of aquatic plants, 30 species of mammals, 272 species
of birds along with 12 reptilian species. Apart from tigers in Ranthambore,
you can also watch major animal species including chital, sambar, nilgai,
wild boar, gazelle, monitor lizards etc.
Talking of floral attractions, visitors can find tree species like banyan,
dhok, mango and peepal trees among others. The forest type in Ranthambore is
specifically dry deciduous type and the dhok trees predominate the jungle
area. The floral growth in the jungles of Ranthambore fluctuates between
thick forests and open bushy area.
Other Attractions in Ranthambore Park
Ranthambore Fort
The name of the Ranthambore Park has been taken from the fort called the
Ranthambore Fort, a major attractions for visitors to Ranthambore. Dating
back to the 10th century, the Ranthambore Fort occupies a position on a rock
outcrop.
Rajbagh Lake
It is the place where you can watch at close quarters sambar deer and marsh
crocodile. If you visit in October-November, you can see scores of young
crocodiles here in the pool. Bird species like crested serpent eagle, gray
headed fish eagle, crested hawk eagle and brown fish owl can also be seen at
Rajbagh in Ranthambore.
Khemsa Kund
During your trip to Ranthambore Park, you can also visit an ancient water
tank, known as Khemsa Kund. Legend has it that there once existed an
underground tunnel starting from the fort and ending at the water tank.
Kukraj Ghati
Climbing up the Ghazal Hill, you arrive at Kukraj. From upon Kukrak, you
can have wonderful views of the Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary. A jeep drive
through the plateaus here is good to watch bear in the park.
Wildlife Safari in Ranthambore National Park
One can tour the park by a jeep or a lorry. It is advisable to stick to the
allocated route The tour is accompanied by a guide. One can shoot the wild
animals by camera and it will be really a thrilling experience. Jeep safaris
in Ranthambore are the best option to study and explore the animal and bird
species in Ranthambore.
How to reach Ranthambore
The nearest city to the park is Sawai Madhopur. This place also provides
the nearest railhead for the national park. It is 11 km from Ranthambore.
Make sure about the trains if you are planning to reach the place by rail.
The nearest airport is that of Jaipur, which is about 145 km away. There are
regular flights of various airlines to this place. From Jaipur one has to
take the road to access the national park.
Wildlife Resorts in Ranthambore
Wildlife visitors can find a number of wildlife resorts in Ranthambore,
aside from hotels in Ranthambore. The resorts in Ranthambore are tastefully
built and are in keeping with the rules of nature. During your stay at these
jungle lodges in Ranthambore, you can keep a close watch at the animals in
Ranthambore. Some of the most preferred options of accommodation in
Ranthambore are as follows.
» Tiger Den Resort
» Sawai Madhopur Lodge
» Tiger Moon Resort
» Sher Bagh
» Pugmark Resort
» Ranthambore Forest Resort
