Alok Prakash 
A trip to Rajasthan, commands a definite visit to Ranthambore National Park, stretching over an area of 400 sq. km, near Sawai Madhopur. Located at the foot of Vindhya and Aravali Ranges, the Ranthambore National Park and Sanctuary which was an open hunting sight of Rathore rulers is now a part of conservation plan, ‘Project Tiger’. The National Park houses dense forest of Dhok trees, 6 water bodies including Padam Talab near Jogi Mahal and several ruined monuments.
The Ranthambore Fort built on a high and vast hill range, houses a Ganesha Temple. Tremendous conservation plans by State Government and Archeological Survey of India has improved the survivability of animals like tigers. This park gives the opportunity to spot and photograph tigers during daylight apart from animals like panthers, chital, sambhar, hyenas, etc. India’s largest population of sambhars is seen in Ranthambore National Park. The 600 year old Banyan tree near Jogi Mahal, is the second largest of its kind in India.
Ranthambore National Park and Safari Booking
The animals of Ranthambore National Park are native to the dry deciduous forest environment. The Ranthambore Tiger Reserve was declared a wildlife sanctuary in year 1957 and in year 1974 it gained the protection of “Project Tiger”. It received it’s status of a National Park in year 1981. It is dotted with ancient Banyan Trees, Dhok & Pipal trees, clusters of mango trees and crisscrossed with evergreen patches. The forest is the typically dry deciduous type, with Dhok, being the most obvious tree found throughout the region.
Ranthambore National Park is one of the most eminent wild life parks. It is consider as one of the best places in the country to see the Bengal Tiger. It also has deserted castle and lakes. It supports a varied series of flora and fauna which makes it a wonderful destination to visit. Ranthambore is commonly known for its large tiger population and it is the prime example of project tiger’s conservation efforts.
The Jeep Safari in Ranthambhore takes tourists during the release plain, covering of wilds and added wooded regions inside Ranthambhore National park. The visitors can spot wild animals close to these areas. The tourist can also relish the glance of a superb Royal Bengal Tiger in this wildlife sanctuary. The best time to visit Ranthambore national park is during the months of October – March and April to June. One can also visit Malik Talao, the Ranthambore Fort, Rajbagh Talao, and Padam Talao and in Jhalra area are some of the most visited places in Ranthambhore. This park is good for birding some of the best birding areas are on the outskirts too.
Also See: Best Tiger Reserves in India
FAQ’s of Ranthambore National Park
Q. Which of the two is a better mode of wildlife safari – Gypsy or Canters?
Answer. Both Gypsy and Canters are an amazing experience in their own way. The fact about Gypsy’s is that they are private, costly and not very noisy. Also, Gipsy and Canters trade the same tracks into the wilderness. If you have a smaller group like 4 to 6 people it is feasible that you opt for a Gypsy Safari and in the case of a large group like 10 to 20 go for a Canter Safari.
Q. What are preferable morning safaris or evening safaris?
Answer. It is advisable that you take an early morning or a late evening safaris, to avoid the scorching heat of the sun.
Q. Which amongst all zones is the best zone?
Answer. Every zone provides an exclusive experience. One should trade through every zone and enjoy the blissful wilderness.
Q. What is the probability of witnessing a tiger?
Answer. Ranthambhore is one of the best places across the World, to witness the tigers. But, tigers are basically introvert and mysterious animals and hence sighting a tiger is very unpredictable.
Q. As per the information provided, the entry fee to the National Park is excluded from the package price. Can you help us with that?
Answer. This depends on the clauses of the organization; you have booked your package with. Most probably they would help you to buy the entry permits or book it on your behalf and charge you for the same.
Q. Is a permit required for the personal camera or video camera? What is the procedure of obtaining this permit? Can you help?
Answer. One can bring along a still camera for free. In case you are carrying a video camera, then you have to pay Rs 200 per. You can pay this amount at the gate and get the permit. Feel free to take help from the driver, for the same.
Q. What are the documents required, in order to book the safaris?
Answer. If you are an Indian national then you are required to provide an identity proof and address proof. If you are a foreign national then you have to provide an identity proof and nationality proof along with the passport number, for booking.
Q. Do I need to make any advanced payment for prior booking?
Answer. The complete payment has to be made in advance. This payment is not refundable, in the case of cancellation or change.
Q. What are the hiking options in Ranthambhore area?
Answer. Ranthambhore proffers three hiking options; the Ranthambhore fort, the Chandmari and Jhoomar Baori area and the Balas and Kala Pathar area of Man Singh Sanctuary. Explore the National Park on foot and admire the varied bird life and the local vegetation in that area.
Also See: Most Popular Zoological Parks In India
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