The Ranthambore National Park(India) offers a unique blend of history and forest. The rich forest around the fort is littered with ruins that date back to the 10th century. Parts of the fort that lie inside the Park have been reclaimed by nature. Where else would you find a tiger strolling regally through the forts… it is truly a unique sight.

The areas in and around the Park offers beautiful lakes frequented by a wide range of wildlife. On the outside you can enjoy the rolling grasslands, rushing streams, open scrubs, heavily wooded valleys and through deep ravines walled on either side with steep cliffs.

The deciduous forests of Ranthambore were once part of the magnificent jungles of Central India. The terrain is rugged and there are rocky ridges, hills and open valleys with lakes and pools.

Today, the picturesque ruins dot the wildlife park as a reminder of the regal past. There are lake palaces, 'chhatris', old fortifications and a majestic 1,000-year-old fort, overlooking the park. The lovely Jogi Mahal is located at the foot of the fort and gives magnificent view of the Padam Talao, painted white with water lilies.

Set between the Aravalli and Vindhya ranges, the total area of the national park stands at 1,334 sq km. The Ranthambhore park, famous for tigers and due to conservation efforts, is a great place for adventurous jungle safaris. The tigers can be spotted even during the day going about their daily routine.

Other inmates of the park are the Antelopes, Nilgai, Sambhar and Chital, which are easy to spot. Those who are lucky enough get to see the Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, Chinkara, Porcupines and Jackals, Leopard, Jungle Cat and Marsh Crocodile. The lakes and water holes in the Ranthambore national park are the best places to sight the animals.

Nearby Attractions of Ranthambore

The fascinating Ranthambore Fort, built by the Chauhans in the 10th century, is located at a very strategic position between north and central India and hence it was always coveted by many rulers. This fort is famous for the 'Johar' (suicide by immolation to escape humiliation) by Rajput women in 1301AD during the siege by Ala-ud-din Khilji. The temples and tanks add to the beauty of the fort. The seven gates and massive curtain walls, crowning a fall-topped hill presents a majestic view.

The best visiting season of Ranthambore national park is during the months of October - March and April to June.