Ranthambhore

General Information

Ranthmabhore surrounded by the Vindhya and Aravali hill ranges and located very near to the outer fringes of the Thar Desert, Ranthambore offers you the best of the desert land as well as plain area near the hills. It used to be the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Later it was declared as a game sanctuary in 1955. The Ranthambore National Park is regarded as the most suitable place for wildlife photography in the world. Here you can capture the tiger in its various moods and moments. Besides the Ranthambore Park, there are places like the Ranthambore Fort (one of its kind in the entire state of Rajasthan), Jogi Mahal (the wonderful forest guesthouse) and the various species of flora and fauna, which are also worth a look. While in Ranthambore you can also get the feel of local customs and traditions of the region. A Jeep safari followed by the dinner consisting of the region's delicacies is an experience not to be missed.

Sightseeing Places

The National Park

The park is one of the finest tiger reserve in the coutry under the Project Tiger. The majestic predators, assured of protection, roam freely during the day time and can be seen at close quarters. Ranthambhor sanctuary has a large number of sambhar, chital. Nilgai, chinkara, langur , wild boar and peafowl. A system of three pretty artificial lakes-Padam Talab, Rajbagh and Milak Talab, alongwith a number of anicuts are part of the biosphere. Besides enhancing the scenic beauty of the Park, they are an important source of water for the inhabitants of the park. While deer congregate here to drink water,fresh water crocodiles can be seen basking in the winter sun to regulate their body temperature. The lake also attracts a large number of migratory and local birds. The local fauna of the park includes leopard, hyena, jackal, jungle cat, sloth bear and a little population of pythons. The lovely Jogi Mahal overlooking the pretty Padam Talab at the foot of the fort has a Forest Rest House. Other accommodation outside the fort also ensures a comfortable stay.

The Fort

The most fascinating and most popular excursion taken from the national park is to the Ranthambore Fort. This fort was built by the Chauhans in the 10th century. The fort is located at a very strategic position between north and central India and hence it was always coveted by many rulers. This fort is famous for the 'Johar' (suicide by immolation to escape humilitaion) by Rajput women in 1301AD during the siege by Ala-ud-din Khilji. The temples and tanks add to the beauty of the fort. The seven gates and massive curtain walls, crowning a fall-topped hill presents a majestic view.

Sultanpur ki Kui One of the most scenic drives in the Park.

Kachida Spot a concentration of Spotted Deer.

Phutakot Colorado of this area.

Bakaula Sea running streams.

Highest Point Gives a virtual 'aerial' view of the Park.

Semli & Berda Breathtaking landscapes that seem to stretch till infinity.

Rajbagh Lake Carpeted with Lotus flowers and filled with Lotus eaters.

Khemsa Kund An ancient water tank.

Lahpur Valley Large flat grassland very good for viewing Deer, Antipole and Tigers.

Kukraj Ghati See the grand view of the National Park from the peak of Kukraj.