Tourist Places To Visit In Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore is one of the most visited places in Rajasthan and it is so because of its rich heritage, its pristine environment and the mystical aura that engulfs it. Known mostly for its Tiger Reserve and the magnificent beasts, the Royal Bengal Tigers, Ranthambore is as unique as they come. Ranthambore is known for its tiger sightings, and unlike other sanctuaries and reserves across the country, the tigers here can be seen during the day roaming the jungles. Ranthambore is also known for its heritage. It was once a hunting ground for royalty and there are numerous reminders of that history like the Ranthambore Fort. With its diverse landscape, forts, lakes and the many creatures that inhabit it, you have so many tourist places to visit when in Ranthambore.

The Ranthambore National Park, one of the primary attractions here, is really the highlight of your trip. Nestled amongst the ancient Aravali ranges and the Vindhya ranges, Ranthambore National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Rajasthan. Expanding over 350 km, the park is one of the biggest tiger sanctuaries in India. It is one of the many areas set up to protect the tiger population in India. The park has an array of different landscapes, from lakes to hills and houses. Numerous other species that are equally special (eg. the Rusty-spotted Cat, i.e. the tiniest cat in the world which is only found in parts of India, Nepal and Sri Lanka) inhabit this forest. Animals like the Indian leopard, the sloth bear, the stripped hyena, caracals, chital, and the Sambar deer are also common here.

The park is a haven for wildlife-enthusiasts world over and tourists from all around visit the park. The park sees a huge number of visitors during the months from October to May, a popular time for tiger sightings. The tigers here can be spotted during the day unlike in other sanctuaries in India. The park also offers safari rides that are quite long and become all shades of thrilling with tigers walking across your paths. 

The Ranthambore Fort is one among the many attractions here. Located in the Ranthambore National Park, the fort is a reminder of the rich heritage of this region. Standing tall atop a hill, the Ranthambore Fort is said to have been built by the Chauhans. The fort has since endured ravage through the ages and is recognised by UNESCO as a heritage site under the ‘Heritage Forts of Rajasthan’. The walk up to the fort is is very rewarding. With each step towards the top, the view becomes more magical. Once in the fort, visitors get a glimpse of the vast expanse of the park and the breathtaking view.

The architecture of the fort itself is quite splendid, packed with history of the many rulers that inhabited this region. Once in the fort, visitors can also catch a glimpse of the numerous birds that inhabit the park. Birds like the Serpent Eagle and Vultures can be seen on the horizon. 

Located inside the Ranthambore Fort, the Trinethra Ganesh temple is among the many historical and ancient temples of Rajasthan. Legend has it that this temple was built by King Hammer after Lord Ganesh appeared to him and miraculously ended the war that was plaguing the region. The locals still believe that the temple is the source of their well-being. The temple is quite unique as it houses the whole family of Lord Ganesh as deities. The Trinethra Ganesh Temple is also quite popular among tourists who come to offer their prayers here.

Located inside the Ranthambore National Park, the Padam Talao or Lake is the largest lake in the region. Named after the lilies that are found here in season, the lake serves as an important water source for the animals that live here. The lake is quite famous among visitors because it also serves as a hot-spot for wildlife spotting. On visiting the lake in the mornings, one can catch a glimpse of the many tigers, deer and chital that inhabit the park. On rare occasions lucky visitors get a chance to catch the tigers in action as they also use shallow waters of the lake to hunt.

Also located in the national park, the beautiful Malik Lake is yet another place to add to your list. Amidst the pristine environment of the park, the lake is rather scenic. While its natural splendour is breath-taking, the lake is also a hot-spot for bird-watching. Many migratory birds from across come to this lake during season. This makes for a wonderful opportunity to catch a glimpse of these beautiful creatures. The lake is also a good spot to catch the resident birds and animals going about their business. Birds like the Graylag Goose, Indian Grey Hornbill, owls, and treepies can be found here.

Set amidst the backdrop of Padam Lake and Raj Bagh Lake, the Raj Bagh ruins are sure to remind anyone who visits it of some long lost film set. The place is spread with structures from the past; domes, arches, outhouses, and palaces. With the blessing of Mother Nature, the ruins are surrounded by numerous shrubs, trees and bushes, giving the place a picturesque aura. The ruins are sure to remind visitors of all the splendour and beauty of historic past that this place witnessed. With the golden rays of the evening sun, the place really becomes magical and is quite a sight to behold. On rare occasions, visitors have also spotted some resident tigers.

Located on the outskirts of the national park, the Kachida Valley is yet another important landmark here. Adorned with low hills and rocks, the valley is known for its Panthers and bears. Given the domination of the dense forests by the tigers, the panthers choose not to venture deep and instead are found in the area around the valley. The valley also has a good bear population and spotting one is not too hard here.

The Akaula Region of Ranthambore Park is best known for its private resorts, viewing areas and the lush thick forest that only a few can penetrate without a map. There are also many little glittering pools that serve as watering holes for the animals. Thus, this region is coveted to sight wild animals enjoying some basking-time by the pond. October to June is the best time to explore this area.

Another dense region in Ranthambore Forest is the Bakula Region. This area is known for its high probability of tiger sightings. The royal Bengal Tiger is often found lounging in by small little water pools, drinking from it, cuddling with the tigresses, cubs playing around. The presence of water bodies cools the temperature of Bakula as well, making it conducive for animals to come and relax.

Jogi Mahal is a famous palace in the middle of Ranthambore park. It sits on the bank of Lake Padam, and is a converted hunting lodge of the Maharajas of Jaipur. Now it serves as a hotel and palace-guest house for dignitaries and tourists. The Banyan tree nearby here is one of the largest in India and a site to behold. Do also take note of the beautiful Rajasthani architecture of the palace itself.

Raj Bagh Talao, one of the 3 lakes in the park, lies in the heart of all the lush greenery. There are ruins on one side of the lake, while the other is mostly reserved by wild animals for an open all-day bar! You will find that the sambhar deer are regulars at this lake, spotted drinking from its cool edges. Tigers are also spotted from time to time, while lots of birds flock too.

This museum in Sawai Madhopur is home to some very rare species of animals, plants and shrubs preserved from the western region of the country. This natural history museum preserves facsimiles of lion, leopard, chinkara and tiger along with some artefacts and collections from Bishnois of Rajasthan. The museum is open all days except Mondays, from 10 to 6.

Photographers adore this lake. Its picturesque landscape, the variety of bird species flocking in, the big birds swooping down to prey on the fish, small animals scuttling around. For wildlife as well as nature lovers, this little lake is as serene as it gets. The sunrises and sunsets are beautiful here, orange like a candy during some winter months. In summer the lake dries up, so the other seasons are better for a visit.

Wild Dragon Adventure Park is for those who want to take a break from all the nature and wildlife and plunge into thrilling rides! Some of the best activities at Wild Dragon include a trip to the Horror House, some Zorbing and a drive in an all terrain vehicle. Kids, especially, enjoy this place.

Lakarda and Anantpura are located in Northern Ranthambore National Park, known best for their honeycombs. The honeycombs ensure a greater population of sloth bears in this region, hence making a spotting pretty simple. Where the honey is, the bear is — as proven by Winnie the Pooh! The thick, lush jungles of Lakarda and Anantpura are also home to hyenas. So you will be in for a treat, following the pug marks of these animals with your magnifying glass in hand.

The National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary is a great place to get a crocodile safari. As the name suggests, this is the habitat of gharials or crocodiles, along with a few other reptiles and birds. There are swamps as well as boat rides in lakes, safaris as well as photography and viewing decks. A fun-filled thrilling exploration, all-in-all. It is 48 km from Ranthambore National Park.

Interested in the arts and crafts of the region around Sawai Madhopur and Ranthambore? Visit the Ranthambore School of Art, where everything from paintings of local wildlife to traditional textured art pieces are found displayed with pride. Most of these paintings are nature and wildlife driven, inspired by the tigers and bears and gazelles of Ranthambore forest. Making people aware about conservation of wildlife and nature is one of the foremost aims of this school, with artists that are local villagers as well as some renowned names. The students trained here are proficient in watercolour, canvas, posters, charcoal and a whole host of techniques.

A handicraft small scale industry, where you find everything from colourful handmade cloth bags to eco-friendly totes, Dastkar Ranthambore is a shopping destination! Their aim is simple — to replace plastic with cloth and reduce the waste in the world. Well, it works pretty well with their cute animals and birds and jungle inspired designed bags that come in many patterns, textures and sizes. A must-visit to take back souvenirs from Ranthambore.

Village of Woman Craft is a place in Sawai Madhopur where the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan is displayed in the form of handmade craft pieces by the local rural women. From amazing dresses and fabrics to beautiful intricate jewellery, the place is a large exhibition of artsy pieces that are perfect to pick up for your wardrobe.