Ranthambore, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Rajasthan, is renowned for its Tiger Reserve. The Ranthambore was the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur . In 1955 , it was declared a game sanctuary and in 1980 it became a national park , which is today's known as Ranthambore national park . Located very close to the outer fringes of the Thar Desert, Ranthambore is surrounded by the majestic Vindhya and Aravalli hills. Due to its very location, Ranthambore possesses the treasure of mysterious desert lands and the plain area near the hills. Bounded by the rivers Chambal, in the south, and Banas, in the north, the vegetation of the area mainly comprises of deciduous forests. Ranthambore was also listed among the protected reserves under the Project Tiger which was commissioned here in1972. With the addition of neighbouring keladevi and Mansingh sanctuaries , the total area of the park is 1,1334sq.km. as this park is famous for its inhabiting tigers and due to its successful conservation efforts , the tiger population has stabilized a lot and therefore considered as the best place in the world to photograph the tiger in its natural habitat, Ranthambore offers adventure activities as well. Some of the good adventure options include Jeep safari, a cultural and traditional experience of the Meena tribes and a night out in the hideouts of the park.
Travel Attractions of Ranthambore
- Ranthambore National Park
: The park which provided recognition to Ranthambore, is a haven
for wild animals. The park boasts of tiger, leopard, caracal,
striped hyena, sloth bear, jungle cat, wild boar, crocodile and
over 300 species of birds. One can go for park rides, Jeep
safaris, elephant safaris, camel rides, bird watching excursions
etc. - Ranthambore Fort : Built in 994, the well-preserved
imposing fort is perched atop a steep high creek 200 m above sea
level. Rantambore's royal past manifests itself in ruined walls,
pavilions, chhatris and splendid monuments within the massive
fort. The fort offers breathtaking views of the Lake Padam Talab
and the nearby areas.
- Ganesh Chaturthi
: Perched on the Ranthambore Fort, there is an 8th century
temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Thousands of devotees gather
at the temple in August/ September to commemorate Lord Ganesha's
birthday.
- Sawai Madhopur : Situated 11 kms away from
Ranthambore, Sawai Madhopur village is the entry point to the
national park. Once the major centre of the Rajpur rulers, Sawai
Madhopur is famous for its historical monuments and related
legends.
- Karauli
: Founded in 1348 A.D, Karauli is known for its magnificent
temples and architectural jewels. Karauli houses a famous
historical monument, which has red sandstone walls, bastions,
peripheral wall, six gates and eleven posters. - Bundi : The place renowned for its splendid monuments and massive fort is 66 Kms from Ranthambore. Major attractions of Bundi include the Taragarh fort (built in 1354), Bundi Palace, the Bhim Burj and a huge water reservoir.
