A small village near the township of Sawai Madhopur, in the state of Rajasthan, Ranthambore gets its name from the two hills, Ran and Thambor, which are in close proximity. Ranthambore is a heritage site because of the picturesque ruins that dot the park. There are lake palaces, 'chhatris', old fortifications and a majestic 1,000-year-old fort overlooking the park. The lovely Jogi Mahal is located at the foot of the fort and gives magnificent view of the Padam Talao, painted white with water lilies. The Ranthambore Park is set between the Aravalli and Vindhya ranges,is a unique juxtaposition of natural and historical richness, standing out conspicuously in a vast arid and denuded tract of eastern Rajasthan, barely 14 kilometer from the town of Sawai Madhopur. It is spread over a highly undulating topography, varying from gentle to steep slopes, from flat-topped hills (Indala, Doodh-Bhat and Chiroli) of the Bindhyas to the conical hillocks (Lahpur, Nalghati, Khachida, Anantpur etc.) to narrow, rocky gorges. An important geological feature, the "Great Boundary Fault" where the Bindhyas were brought against the much ancient Aravalis, passes from here.
The rich flora and fauna of the Ranthambore National Park makes it quite popular with nature lovers. No wonder, the park is also one of the most filmed wildlife reserves in the world today. Ranthambhore/Ranthambore Tiger Reserve in the Indian state of Rajasthan comprises distinct areas with varied conservation and virtually separated geographically, with mere narrow corridors linking them to the core, Ranthambore National Park, Keladeve Sanctuary and Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary.
The tigers of Ranthambore are its most famous attraction followed by many other varieties of interesting animals. Tiger sightings are not very common at the Ranthambore National Park. However, with the help of a good naturalist, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the ever-elusive king of the jungle. One of the best things about a visit to the Ranthambore National Park is its mysterious aura that simply fascinates every visitor. Indeed, the thrill of the wild is something that is simply beyond words. Besides, Ranthambore's fauna is characterized by such a rich variety that every visitor is left amazed.
Ranthambore fauna consists of many other interesting animals like leopards, fishing cats, jungle cats, sloth bears, stripped hyenas, jackals, crocodiles and palm civets. Ranthambore is also home to many exotic breeds like the nilgai (Blue Bull), sambhar, cinkara (Indian Gazelle), chital, Indian flying fox and so on. Besides, many reptiles and different varieties of birds inhabit the Ranthambore National Park.
Overall, a visit to the Ranthambore National Park always adds up to a fantastic experience to remember. Its rich and varied fauna is something you will rarely come across during your travels around the world.
Tourist Places in Ranthambore
- Ranthambore National Park
- Sawai Madhopur
- Tonk
- Karauli
- Mahaveerji
- Ranthambore National Park Monuments
- Ranthambore School of Art
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