Ranthambhore in India Where Tigers Rule

The Rajput Ruler Hammir Dev began the construction of Ranthambore Fort in the tenth century AD. Constant conquests brought in rulers one after the other adding layers of new construction to create a magnificent citadel one among many that decorate the edifice map of Rajasthan.  

The fort lies within the National Park and can be seen during the safaris.  Though well preserved and intact, only tigers rule the monument in contemporary times. On a visit, many structures that created the citadel can be explored. Temples, massive halls, Royal chambers, grand entrances, and fine rock art bedazzle.

A large number of lakes and ponds dot the landscape. These are the unique hunting grounds for the tigers. They ambush from the nearby grasslands into the water to catch and kill the deer that feast on water plants. This is an event people come from far and wide to witness.   

More than twenty-five tigers survive in the reserve which is more than one thousand square kilometers. Many tigers frequently seen are given names and can be recognized by their stripes and marking on their heads. Some of the famous big cats are Noor, Machli, Changez,  Surjan, Laila, Fateh, Star Male, and so on. These are some of the legendary predators who ruled over the wilderness for years and made a name for themselves.  

Some of these tigers have been frequently filmed by producers from all over the World. Numerous instances of breeding have been recorded at Ranthambhore. Since these are excellent breeding grounds for the felines.

A large number of tourists arrive here every year to witness the family life of the tigers.   Being close to New Dehli, Agra and Jaipur it is included in the Golden Triangle Circuit as an extension for wildlife watching. The stay is usually of one or two days with a couple of safaris organized for the visitors. For a good experience, one must partake in at least four safaris. 

Wild animals and birds abound in this tiger reserve. The most sought-after animals besides the tiger are the leopard, sloth bear, and large deer-like sambar and Nilgai. Spotted deer, Indian gazelle, wild boar, langur, and peacock are the common sight. The rarest predator in this reserve is the Caracal and few sightings have occurred near the park in scrub and open confines.    

A large number of birds make Ranthambore their home. Most targeted are the raptors like the hawk and serpent eagles, orange-headed ground thrush, paradise flycatchers, black-naped and verditor flycatchers. Indian pitta, dusky eagle owl, short-eared owl, flamingo, quails, warblers, passerine, grass birds, and wetland species abound.

The park is home to numerous reptiles, mugger crocodiles, numerous species of butterflies, and innumerable insects.  

The striking biodiversity gives rise to various habitats suitable for tigers and other mammals. The niche ecosystems thrive on a large number of floral species which are found in wild abundance throughout the park.    

The tiger reserve is situated within the Golden Quadrilateral which is the most popular circuit among overseas tourists. Hence besides enjoying the wildlife the visitors can see the Taj Mahal and go sightseeing at Jaipur the Capital City of Rajasthan State.  

The popular Ranthambore Tiger Reserve is situated near the township of Sawai Madhopur.  The township is easily accessible for New Delhi as well as Jaipur. A drive from the capital takes six hours and one can also fly down to Jaipur.

Some of the tourism zones are closed from 1st July to 31st September. A permit is required for jeep excursions in the reserve. A large number of hotels and resorts are available near the park ranging from budget to high-end.  The excursions are conducted on open jeeps and twenty-seater canters.