Sightseeing Highlights:
The formidable and majestic Ranthambore Fort, after which the park was named, is located atop a steep hill within the reserve. This imposing structure offers spectacular views of the surrounding terrain, and is home to three historic Hindu temples, honouring Ganesh, Shiva and Ramlalji. The beautiful Jogi Mahal, famous for being home to the country's second largest Banyan tree, is situated on the banks of Padam Talao, the park's largest lake.
The area's most scenic lake, however, is the Rajabagh Talao. This popular watering hole is probably one of the best places to see a tiger. Adding to the charm are the Raj Bagh Ruins with ancient pavilions, domes, arches, steps and other stone structures. The smallest lake, Malik Talao, is a great place to see migratory birds and crocodiles, while areas such as Lakarda and Anantpura, in the north and north-western sections of the park, are good for seeing sloth bears. The heavily forested Bakuala area features many small water bodies, and is one of the coldest areas of the park.
Other Activities:
The national park offers safaris by jeep and canter, along fixed trails set by the Forest Department. Since the area is relatively small, it is said that sightings of tigers are almost guaranteed. With close to 300 species of birds visiting the park, Ranthambore is also ideal for bird-watching expeditions. The wide assortment of flora and fauna also provides excellent opportunities for wildlife photographers.
Tourism info:
Tourist Information Centre,
RTDC Hotel Vinayak,
Sawai Madhopur.
Tel: 07462-220808
One of the country's most renowned national parks and tiger reserves, Ranthambore is located at the junction of the Vindhya and Aravalli Hills, and bound by the rivers Banas in the north and Chambal in the south. Spread over an area of nearly 392 sq km, the park is marked by dense jungles, rocky ridges, meandering streams and lakes, and deep gorges, all providing a fertile habitat to an extensive variety of flora and fauna.
Home to several animals, including leopards, jackals, sloth bears, panthers, wild pigs and deer, a large selection of reptiles and migratory birds, as well as its most famous and sought-after resident, the tiger, Ranthambore was originally a hunting ground for the monarchs of Jaipur. However, in 1955, the area was set up as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary, and in 1973, it was declared a Project Tiger Reserve.
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