About Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park, located in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan, is one of the most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries in India. Spread over an area of approximately 1,334 square kilometers, this iconic national park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and thrilling wildlife encounters—making it a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and adventure seekers.
Ranthambore was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and became a part of Project Tiger in 1973. Later, in 1980, it was declared a national park. The park is named after the historic Ranthambore Fort , which lies within its boundaries and adds a royal charm to the lush wilderness. This park is one of the best places in India to spot Royal Bengal Tigers in their natural habitat. Due to its relatively small size and open terrain, the chances of tiger sightings here are higher compared to many other reserves.
Flora and Fauna
Ranthambore's landscape is a mix of dry deciduous forests, open grassy meadows, and ancient ruins. This unique terrain supports a rich variety of flora and fauna:
Flora: The forest is primarily composed of Dhok trees , which cover most of the park. You'll also find banyan, pipal, neem, mango, and tamarind trees. During the monsoon, the park blooms with vibrant greenery and wildflowers.
Fauna : Apart from tigers, the park is home to: Leopards, Sloth bears, Jackals, Hyenas, Nilgai (blue bull), Sambar and chital deer, Langurs and macaques. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers , with over 300 species of birds, including: Peacocks, Serpent eagles, Parakeets, Hornbills, Migratory birds like flamingos and pelicans in winter.
The Tigers of Ranthambore
Ranthambore is most famous for its tigers, particularly those that have become legends—like Machhli , the most photographed tigress in the world, and her descendants. Thanks to the efforts of conservationists and the park authorities, the tiger population here has seen a steady increase. Tigers in Ranthambore are often seen walking on trails, resting in the ruins of old structures, or even near the lakes, offering exceptional photo opportunities.
Ranthambore Fort – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Within the park lies the Ranthambore Fort , a majestic structure built in the 10th century. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the “Hill Forts of Rajasthan,” it offers panoramic views of the park and a chance to witness the coexistence of history and wildlife.
Visitors can climb up to the fort and explore ancient temples, step-wells, and palaces. The Ganesh Temple inside the fort is a major attraction for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Safari Experience
Ranthambore offers two types of safaris :
- Jeep Safari (6-seater)
- Canter Safari (20-seater)
Safaris are conducted in two shifts per day – morning and evening – and are led by experienced guides and naturalists. The park is divided into 10 safari zones , each offering unique landscapes and wildlife sightings. Zones 1 to 5 are considered core zones with a higher chance of tiger sightings, while zones 6 to 10 are buffer areas but equally rich in biodiversity.
Tip: Book your safari well in advance, especially during peak seasons (October to March), as slots fill up quickly.
Best Time to Visit
Ranthambore is open for tourism from October to June .
- October to March : Pleasant weather, perfect for wildlife safaris and photography.
- April to June : Hot but excellent for tiger sightings near water bodies.
- Monsoon (July to September) : Park remains closed for safaris, but Ranthambore Fort stays accessible.
How to Reach Ranthambore
- By Air : Nearest airport is Jaipur (approx. 160 km). From there, hire a taxi or take a train.
- By Train : Sawai Madhopur Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
- By Road : Well connected by roads; buses and taxis are available from Jaipur, Kota, and Delhi.
Travel Tips
- Book safaris early, otherwise the slots will be sold out..
- Carry binoculars and cameras with extra batteries.
- Wear neutral-colored clothing and follow forest etiquette.
- Avoid loud noises and do not litter inside the park.
- Always follow your guide's instructions during the safari.
