 Beautifully nestled between the Aravali and Vindhya mountain ranges and located very near to the outer fringes of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, the Ranthambore National Park is rated among the finest wildlife sanctuaries of India. The former hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur, it was declared as a tiger sanctuary under Project Tiger in 1973 and attained the status of a national park in 1980.
Spread over an area of 150 sq. miles, the Park is beautifully nestled between the Chambal and the Banas River and six artificial lakes providing a scenic look to it. The presence of many water streams along with verdant vegetation provides an ideal condition for survival and growth of a varied wildlife. The park is a haven for tigers and its pray. The park houses a wide variety of wildlife but the greatest attractions of the park are Royal Bengal Tigers.
Wildlife in Ranthambore National Park
The Sanctuary is home to a very rich flora and fauna. It houses about 30 mammals species, 275 bird species, 12 reptile species and 350 plant species including 50 aquatic plants. The major wildlife here include Royal Bengal Tigers, Panthers, Chital, Sambar, Blackbuck, Chinkara, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Hyena, Jackal, Wild Boars, Mongoose, Nilgai, Gazelle, Bears, Indian Hare, Monitor Lizards and a large number of exotic and colorful birds.
The presence of a significant number of famous Royal Bengal tigers has made Ranthambore one of the most sought after wildlife destinations in India. Presently, the estimated Tiger population in the Park is between 35-40. Tigers here can be seen in prowling in the forest looking for their prey or drinking on the banks of the lakes and watering holes in the evening. Spotting and observing the activities of Tigers provide an unforgettable lifetime experience to you.
The picturesque Ranthambore National Park offers many scenic spots and sceneries ideal for taking the snapshots.
Major Attractions
Ranthambore Fort: Situated in the heart of the Park, the 10th century Ranthambore Fort is probably the oldest fort in Rajasthan.
Jogi Mahal: Jogi Mahal is a beautiful forest guesthouse and famous for sheltering the second-largest Banyan tree in India. From Jogi Mahal one can take pleasant drives to Nal Ghati and Lahpur through the Dhok Avenue, to Bakaula and Anantpur via Lakarda or to Kachida valley and Anantpura.
Raj Bagh: Raj Bagh is a quadrangle with the sitting area. It is a mixture of architectural styles with ruins of fountain systems and apartments, situated between the Padam Talao and Raj Bagh Talao. Tigers have often been seen roaming about freely in these ruins.
Three Lakes: Padam Talao, Raj Bagh Talao and Malik Talao are the 3 lakes in the park that attract a large number of wilds, which in turn attract tigers. These lakes are so beautiful and picturesque that they are said to be a wildlife photographer's ultimate dream
The best way to explore the Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary is through the jeep safari. One can take pleasant drives to places like Nal Ghanti, Lahpur, Bakula, Anantpur and Kachida valley in the park, where the wild animals can be found.
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