Looking for places to visit in Ranthambore? Here is a list of the top places to visit during your holiday.
Ranthambore National Park
Starting off with the most popular and defining landmark in Ranthambore, the Ranthambore National Park is a true haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Sprawling across 1334 sq. km., it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The most sought-after experience here is the sighting of the majestic Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat. According to the latest data (2019), the national park houses more than 70 of these fearsome predators. Bakula Region in Ranthambore is said to present its visitors with the highest chance of a tiger sighting. Similarly, the national park is also segregated into other regions like Kachida Valley - a calm valley primarily occupied by panthers and bears, owing to its optimal climate; The beautiful forests of Lakarda and Anantpura are overrun by sloth bears and marked by huge beehives. Rare animals like the Indian Hyena and many others can be found here as well.
Padam Talao
Padam Talao is the largest lake in Ranthambore National Park and is, therefore the drinking grounds for a majority of the animals that call this national park home. The word ‘Padam’ translates to flowers and ‘Talao’ means lake. It is called so because of the water lilies that bloom during the month of June to September, covering the surface of the lake, making for a beautiful spectacle. The most ideal time to witness the animals that come here to quench their thirst and click their picture is during the early mornings and evenings.
Jogi Mahal
Jogi Mahal is a distinctive monument in Ranthambore National Park that is situated on the banks of the serene Padam lake. Used in the olden days as a lodging for the royal family of Jaipur during their wildlife hunts and then later converted as a guest house for visitors coming to the national park, this iconic structure overflowing with the architectural beauty of Rajasthan is now restricted to the public.
Malik Talao
Malik Talao is the smallest lake in Ranthambore National Park but is also the favourite spot for bird watchers and wildlife photographers to catch a glimpse of rare birds and snap a stunning picture. Kingfishers, storks and cranes can be frequently seen hunting for fish in this lake. The lake also hosts marsh crocodiles, which can be seen resting on the calm waters taking a respite from the sun.
Ranthambhore Fort
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under ‘Hill Forts of Rajasthan’ in the year 2013, the Ranthambore Fort is an iconic structure situated atop a 700 feet high hill that overlooks the Ranthambore National Park. Promising its visitors stunning panoramic frames of the national park, this fort is open to all visitors free of cost. As a marvel of Rajasthani architecture that portrays the history and culture of this glorious state, this site is a must-visit if you are in Ranthambore. Watch one of the most beautiful sunsets you can witness in India from this fort. The presence of the age-old Trinetra Ganesh Temple inside the fort premises is an added bonus!
Surwal Lake
Surwal Lake on the premises of the Ranthambore National Park is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in the area. Producing the optimal conditions for an array of birds, especially in the winter season, to hunt for food, this lake with its calm waters provides a tranquil space for the visitors to catch up and become one with nature.
Raj Bagh Talao
The ideal place to try out your luck in case you were hoping to see the Sambhar deer in its natural habitat, the Raj Bagh Talao is considered to be the most graceful among all the lakes in the Ranthambore National Park. Adding to this is the rustic beauty of the Raj Bagh ruins on the edge of the lake. With its walls and pillars that have witnessed the untold stories of the Jaipur royal family, the old-world charm of the entire area is truly captivating.
National Chambal Sanctuary
Go on eventful boat safaris on the Chambal River at National Chambal Sanctuary and observe the abundant diversity of wildlife that thrives in the 5400 sq. km. of the protected area. If you are fortunate enough, on top of the beautiful bird sightings, you might even be able to witness rare animals like the critically endangered gharial, red-crowned roof turtle and Ganges river dolphin while you are here.
So what are you waiting for? Head on over to the lively Ranthambore National Park and stand testament to the amalgamation of natural beauty, human marvel and sporadic charm of this utopia. A single day is not enough to witness the length and breadth of this national park, so choose your stay at one of the best resorts in Ranthambore, The Baagh Ananta Elite and be assured of a stay as memorable as your journey through this Eden.