Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan is spread over 392 sq km and is one of the most popular tourist destinations of the state where wildlife, history and nature come together. At the center of the park is the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort and scattered nearby are ancient temples and mosques, crocodile-filled lakes and chhatris (cenotaphs). The ruins of past give Ranthambore a unique and refreshing appeal.
Ranthambore National Park has done rather well in conservation of tigers, who are accustomed to human presence making it one of the best places to photograph tigers. The park also boasts of more than 300 species of birds. In 1955, Ranthambore National Park was declared a wildlife sanctuary. In 1980 it got the status of a National Park and in 1984, the north-east and southern forests were declared as Keladevi and Sawai Man Singh sanctuaries.
You can go for nature walks or go bird-watching or simply take a hike or go on a safari. If none of this interest you, pay a visit to the villages around to experience rural Rajasthan culture first hand. Alternatively, you can pack a mini lunch and relax at some nice spots on the outskirts of the park.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK
Affordable and suitable accommodation facilities are available near the park with excellent transportation. Ranthambore is usually crowded during the peak season (October to June) so book your rooms are booked in advance.
Budget rooms are available from Rs 1,000 onward and provide comfortable accommodation. Deluxe rooms cost around Rs 3,000 and offer air-conditioning which is necessary during the humid summers. Suites in luxury hotels and wildlife resorts are available for prices ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000. These hotels offer state of the art facilities like a pool, a bar, currency exchange and health club, and a multi-cuisine restaurant along with royal treatment to their guests. The rooms here offer an aesthetic view of the jungle and dramatic watercourse.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK
Ranthambore city has quite a few restaurants and hotels and these are spread across a vast area. Though the town of Sawai Madhopur has a few good eating joints, it is advisable to carry some snacks before you leave your hotel. Most of the restaurants in Sawai Madhopur are in-house restaurants of hotels and resorts and offer diverse dining options. There are also many dhabas around this small town serving delicious local food.
BEST TIME TO VISIT RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Ranthambore National park is as given below. The best time to visit Ranthambore National park is also specified.
