Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park is surrounded by the Vindhya and Aravali hill ranges and is very near to the outer fringes of the Thar Desert. Tracts of the desert and semi-desert vegetation cover the entire park. Ranthambore was originally a hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur and was declared a game sanctuary in 1955. In 1980, it became a national park and was listed among the reserves protected under Project Tiger (1973). Presently the Kaila Devi Sanctuary, also famous for its tigers, and Mansingh Sanctuary are included in the Ranthambore Reserve.

Ranthambhore forest is dry deciduous in character with dhok (Anogeissus pendula) trees as the main vegetation which is the fodder tree for animals. Kulu (Sterculia urens), ronj (Acacia leucophloea), ber (Zizyphus maudrentiana), khimi (Manilkara hexandra), tendu (Diospyrous melanoxylon), polas (Butea monosperma), peepal, mango and banyan comprise other important trees in Ranthambhore. Flame of the forest, which blooms in April is the most beautiful tree and envelopes the forest in a spectacular fiery red aura. The four lakes in Ranthambhore are enclosed by various species of trees like salar (Boswellia serrata), gurjan (Lannea coromandelica) and gum (Sterculia urens).

The Park also has a large number of wild species like tigers, leopards, the highly endangered caracal, jungle cat, hyena, jackal, sloth bear, wild boar, marsh crocodile, porcupine, common langur, spotted deer, Indian gazelle, sambar (Asiatic stag) and nilgai (bluebull). The nocturnal species like the leopard and the caracal are difficult to locate and thus sightings could be rare.

Ranthambhore is famous for its migratory, water, and woodland birds where there are nearly 270 species of birds in the Park including a large number of migratory birds. The great Indian horned owl, various species of eagles such as Bonellis eagle and the crested serpent, spoonbills, partridge, quail, parakeets, kingfishers, owls and storks, geese and ducks are the various species of birds found here. Peacock, the national bird of India, is the most seen and the most alluring bird found here.

The safari into the jungles and chance of coming across the unexpected is the most thrilling experience. Safaris into the Ranthambore National Park are conducted by the Forest Department in open truck style canters and supposed to be booked in advance.

The nearest airport from Ranthambore is Jaipur which is 180 km away. Ranthambore is well connected by rail to Delhi, Jaipur, Bharatpur and Mumbai. The Park is well connected by road to Agra (275 kms), Bharatpur (210 kms) and Jaipur (180 kms) via a good network of roads.

Ranthambore fort, built by the Chauhans in the 10th century, is the most popular excursion taken from the national park. The position of the fort is very strategic between north and central India and hence many rulers tried to invade it. It is also famous for the johars (suicide by immolation to escape humiliation) by Rajput women in 1301 during the siege by Ala-ud-din Khalji. The seven gates and massive curtain walls, crowning a fall-topped hill presents a majestic view.
There are beautiful temples and tanks in the vicinity of the fort and add to its charm and grace.