Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary

Ranthambore National Park Is The Home Of Tigers And A Project Tiger Reserve. Situated In Sawai Madhopur District Of Rajasthan, Ranthambore Is A Former Hunting Ground Of The Maharajas Of Jaipur.

Location: Ranthambore Naional Park

Attractions: Tigers in the wild!, and leopard, nilgai, wild pig, sambar and reptiles

When to visit: Open from 1^st October till 30^th June

Ranthambore National Park, the site of Project Tiger, is the only dry deciduous tiger habitat in the world. A hunting ground of the erstwhile Maharajas of Jaipur, now tigers can be observed here in the wild. Located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, it is 130 km from Jaipur, about two hours in travel time.

About the park

Spread over 392 sq km, it is located bounded by Banas River, the Chambal River, hills of Aravali range and a plateau on its four sides. It was declared a Project Tiger reserve in 1973. The other animals found in Ranthambore are leopard, dhole, wild pig, sambar, nilgai, chital and gaur. Black Buck and crocodiles are also found here. Black Bucks are revered by a local community residing here.

Staying there and getting about

Upper and mid range hotels are available in Ranthambore. Organized canter and jeep safaris are conducted twice daily, at dawn and early afternoon. Each safari lasts for three hours.

Other sightseeing

Ancient Banyan Trees, Dhok and Pipal trees, mango trees and a large green belt are the pride of Ranthambore, apart from its tigers. Also present within the National Park is Ranthambore Fort, dating from tenth century. This is probably the oldest fort in Rajasthan. Jogi Mahal houses the second-largest Banyan tree in India. Close to Ranthambore National Park are Sawai Madhopur Village, known for its historical monuments, Karauli, Bundi and Kota, other tourist places famous for temples and architectural marvels.

Ranthambore National Park has limited entry and permits have to be obtained. Foreigners have to pay an entrance fee of Rs 200, Indians Rs 25 and Indian students Rs 5 only. Additional charges have to be paid for electronic equipments like cameras.