One of the Largest National Parks in India
Located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, the Ranthambore National Park is one of the most rustic and renowned sanctuaries in India. It lies at the meeting point of the Aravalli Ranges and the Vindhya Plateaus. The Government of India initially established the Ranthambore National Park as a game sanctuary in 1955.
Later, in 1973, in order to preserve the dwindling number of tigers, it was brought under the Project Tiger Reserve. It became a national park in 1980. Subsequently, the adjacent forests near the park were declared as the Kela Devi Sanctuary and the Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary. In 1991, the tiger reserve was expanded to include both these sanctuaries, leading to the complete establishment of the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve.
Following are the main tourist attractions in Ranthambore Park
Flora
Generally, dry and deciduous trees make up most of the vegetation in Ranthambore Park. The major trees found in this national park are Banyan, Mango, Babul, Khair, Khajur, Dhok, Jamun, Ber and Imli. The largest Banyan tree in Ranthambore is one of the largest in India. Almost 80% of the vegetation is covered with Dhok. Along with it, around 300 different species of plants grow in this park.
Deer, antelope and Nilgai feed on the leaves of the Dhok tree. The leaves from the Tendu plant are used to make beedis (rolled cigarettes) in India. The world-renowned Vetiveria oil is obtained from Khus grass, which grows near the lake edges. This oil is known for its calming and healing properties.
The medium-sized Flame of the Forest tree is also found in this park, colouring the forest in orange and vermillion shades when in bloom. The bark of the Khair tree is used to make paste for paans, and porcupines are known to feed on it. The park receives scanty rainfall due to its proximity to the Thar Desert. Lotus and water lilies grow abundantly in the lakes, forming the main aquatic flora of Ranthambore.
Fauna
Ranthambore National Park is known for its rich fauna, mainly comprising tigers, which form the apex of the food chain. Apart from tigers, the park also has leopards, striped hyenas, jungle cats, blackbucks, rhesus macaques, chinkara and other species.
Among reptiles, the park includes Desert Monitor Lizards, Common Kraits, Cobras, Indian Pythons and Rat Snakes.
A total of 272 different bird species have been reported in the park, making Ranthambore a paradise for bird lovers. Many of these are migratory species. India's national bird, the peacock, is easily spotted throughout the park.
Several fish species are also found in the water bodies of the park, such as Catla, Mrigal, Grey Mullet, Bital, Sevan, Singhari and Lanchi.
Excursions from Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore Fort: This formidable fort is located within the periphery of the national park. It is perched on a 700-ft Thambhore hill and is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites (under the Hill Forts of Rajasthan). Established in 944 AD, the fort derives its name from the two hills—Rann and Thambhore. It is recommended to visit the fort on Wednesdays when Lord Ganesh is worshipped, attracting a large number of devotees.
Padam Talao: This is the largest lake in Ranthambore Park. It derives its name from the abundance of lotus flowers that bloom in its waters. The famous Jogi Mahal is situated beside this lake. The large banyan tree near Jogi Mahal is a well-known landmark.
Bakaula Forest: This densely forested region within Ranthambore National Park is known as the Bakaula region. It is filled with trees and small water bodies, attracting a large number of wildlife species. Many bird species can also be spotted here.
When to go
The Ranthambore National Park is open for visitors from October to June. The best time to spot tigers is from April to June.
How to go
By Air: Jaipur is the nearest airport to Ranthambore and is about 4 hours away. Tourists can use the regular bus service from Jaipur to Ranthambore and vice versa.
By Rail: Sawai Madhopur is the nearest railway station to Ranthambore. It is well-connected to Jaipur, Agra and Delhi.
By Road: The nearest town to Ranthambore is Sawai Madhopur, which is 11 km away.
