Ranthambore

Ranthambore, established as a sanctuary in 1959, was secured in the very first phase of Project Tiger in 1972. In 1981, Ranthambhore was given the status of a National Park. The park got its name from the fort of Ranthambhore, which perches on a rocky prominence in the forest. The fort was an important fortification for the control of central India. Though swamped by vegetation, remains of the summer palaces, temples and guard stones within the fort still remain.

By Air - The nearest airport is Jaipur (180 km away) which is well connected by air from Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Jodhpur and Udaipur.

By Rail - Ranthambore is well connected by rail to Delhi, Jaipur, Bharatpur and Mumbai.

By Road - Ranthambore is well connected by road to Agra (275 kms), Bharatpur (210 kms) and Jaipur (180 kms) and fits in very well into any North India itinerary.

Plant Species - 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).

Animal Species - Ranthambhore National Park occupies an area of around 400 sq km with a tiger population of about 32. The tigers can be located easily in Ranthambhore as compared to any other National Parks. The Park also has a large number of other wild species like 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.

Birds Species - Ranthambhore is famous for its migratory, water, and woodland birds. There are nearly 270 species of birds in the Park including a large number of migratory birds. Different birds found here are 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. But the most seen and the most beautiful bird here is the peacock, the national bird of India. Every evening the peacocks of Ranthambhore line up on the walls of the fort which is situated on a cliff above the Park and, after much calling, climb down to specific roosting trees for the night.

Ranthambore Fort - The most splendid and sought after excursion from the national park is to the Ranthambore Fort. This magnificent fort was constructed by the Chauhans in the 10th century. The location of the fort is strategic just between north and central India because of which it was aspired for by many rulers. This fort is famous for the 'Johar' (suicide by immolation to escape humiliation) by Rajput women in 1301 AD during the siege by Ala-ud-din Khilji. The temples and tanks here enhance the beauty of the fort. The seven gates and massive curtain walls, crowning a fall-topped hill presents a majestic view.

Safaris - 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.