Ranthambore National Park is situated in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan. It is one of the largest and famous National Park in India. Once known as the hunting base for Maharajas of Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park today is a major tourist destination.
Ranthambore National Park is situated in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan. It is one of the largest and famous National Park in India. Once known as the hunting base for Maharajas of Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park today is a major tourist destination. It is recognized as one of the best places in the country to spot tigers. Sprawling across a little more than 1300 square kilometers including core and buffer area, the Ranthambore National Park is every wildlife enthusiast, photographer and a spirited traveler’s heaven.
It was a complete surprise trip that made all of a sudden, we were gathered at the dinner table to have the dinner and a thought came to my mind to visit a wildlife national park. I am a nature lover myself and never misses an opportunity to visit nature, away from the concrete jungles of metro cities. So, I searched for the wildlife national parks that are easily reachable and where the experience of watching the animals and birds in their natural habitat could be simply amazing. Ranthambore National Park became the first and best choice for me and my family. Therefore, in September, right after the monsoons, we decided to make the trip happen in the coming weekend. And that is how the very next to next day we left early in the morning with our personal car. In between we made the booking for stay and safari.
We reached our resort in Ranthambore in the noon. We were welcomed at the resort with the refreshing soft drinks. Soon after that, we just got freshen up and went for lunch. Meanwhile, the hotel manager informed that we have to leave for safari ride into the jungles of Ranthambore National Park after the lunch is served.
Best Tiger Spotting Zone in Ranthambore: In total there are 10 Zones specially marked for spotting the tigers and other species. Zone 1 to Zone 5, is nestled in the core area and Zone 5-10 are in the surrounding buffer zone. If you are planning to start your Ranthambore Tours with watching the wild cats, then you should go for Zone 1 to Zone 5, where you have a higher chance for tiger sightseeing.
We left for the safari right after relaxing for some time, post lunch. As we reached in the dense forest of Ranthambore, we saw a flash of orange and black stripes which turned out to be a tiger, locally named as Machli. She followed our jeep for a short distance and then rushed into the bushes. Suddenly a peacock distracts our mind that landed from somewhere on our jeep. This is for sure is a Ranthambore safari in all its glory.
After finishing the amazing wildlife safari in a little more than 2 hours, we came back to the Resort. The resort has planned a campfire dinner for us. We all enjoyed the amazing food with the campfire and we danced to the hell and the night turned to be just superb.
Next Day - we left for the early morning safari to Ranthambore National Park. The weather was pleasant and breezy despite the hot desert sun. A skilled guide accompanied us who used to be well aware of the whereabouts of the park. In the wait of seeing the great striped animal, my enthusiasm had built beyond expectations. Then we began to spot numerous animals, ranging from spotted and Sambar deer, birds and then the much awaited moment arrived. We finally saw a Tiger, and then one more. The beautiful majestic striped animals were basking in the sun as they were seen taking a dip in the nearby ponds.
It was a great safari experience and hiring a guide is the best part, he makes sure that we do not leave the park with a sorrowful heart, rather, have the camera hard disc memory full of magnificent pictures. We returned to the hotel at 10:30 AM. Then we went to have breakfast as all were feeling very hungry.
At 2:00 PM, after taking some rest we left the hotel to look out the Ranthambore Fort. The majestic enigma of Ranthambore didn't end with the sighting of a tiger. The view of the surrounding becomes better and better as we go up but the view from the fort itself can only be described as breathtaking. The soaring serpent eagles, vultures and other birds we can see now at eye level. The fort itself offers many interesting architectural and historical sights worth viewing and photographing. A trip to the fort is a must if you are a first time visitor to the park.
The Ganesha Temple is a major attraction of the fort, Thousands of people come here from every corner of the country, and seek blessings from the Lord for happiness and prosperity. One interesting aspect is the mail that is sent to Lord Ganesha consisting mainly of wedding invitations. These letters are delivered daily by the local postman. The Fort is a good place for bird watching too.
Now we left to the resort and since it was all tiring day we fell asleep soon after dinner.
In all, it was a mesmerizing trip. One needs to take at least two safaris, less than two would not be a justice to the national park. And when you will return, you will be happy with looking after the memories you have in your camera.
