Somewhere hidden in the heart of Rajasthan is the small district of Sawai Madhopur where lies the gorgeous and mystical forest of Ranthambhore. Perched between Aravalli and Vindhya hill ranges, Ranthambhore is spread across 500 kms and offers great sighting of wildlife. The forest takes you on a tour of the magical landscape that changes in every few kms. From dense, green foliage to the barren open spaces, from sun kissed long grasses to the mystical remains of the majestic fort. Ranthambhore is a paradise for wildlife lovers.
As soon as you step into the forest, you get transported to a world of bygone eras where the forest used to be the hunting ground of Maharajas of Jaipur. Every stone, every rock, every structure tells you stories of these royalties. But what’s even more exciting is exploring the wildlife that is ruling the jungle now. And if you are a photographer or a wildlife enthusiastic, then just pack your bags and head to Ranthambhore like we did. Because there’s nothing like waking up to the fresh air around you or coming face-to-face with the animals.
Looking at these amazing creatures in their natural environment often evoke reactions from us, but have you ever thought how would these animals react looking at us humans in their territory? That’s why, I thought of presenting these animals reaction through “Ranthambhore Tales.” It’s my way of showcasing what might be going in the minds of these animals. So, Happy Reading!
Glimpses of the Jungle
Welcome to Ranthambhore, join us on this exciting safari in exploring the beautiful jungle and it’s enticing wildlife.
And we are all set. Tigers, here we come!
The entrance of the jungle under the protection of the massive Banyan Tree.
Did you know the famous and the majestic Ranthambhore Fort is a part of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Site? It was allegedly built during the 10th Century.
Padam Talao in Zone 3. Crocodiles and Tigers’ hot spot to loiter around, quench their thirst, hunt and have a gala time.
Once upon a time, Jogi Mahal or The Hunting Palace was the hunting lodge of the Royals. Later, it got converted to a forest rest house and opened up for tourists. Now, it has been closed for people.
Tree canopy welcoming you.
Would we or wouldn’t we see a Tiger is the question?
Hope you enjoyed the jungle! Now, it’s time to meet the wildlife and see what they have to say to us.
Welcome to my jungle guys, I am “Rufous Treepie.” I love when visitors flock my forest. They bring so much yummy food for me. And, yeah good luck with sighting.
Hey listen Dude, I don’t want to be clicked. I am hungry. Can you give me some food instead?
Hello, Hello, we are sun bathing, hoping to get some tan. Want to join us? (Evil laugh)
Should I or shouldn’t I get into the water is the question? It’s so damn cold. I think, I shall avoid bathing.
No, I don’t want to show my face to you. I don’t like meeting strangers. Back off!
Mom, I think we have visitors. Can I please go and meet them? Puhleeezzz….
Oh my Gawd! Was that a leopard call?
Naaaaa, it was just a false alarm. I should rather say it was a false “Call” hahahaahaha.
What are you looking at? I’m telling you for the last time. These are not chicken legs! Don’t you get it? I am not a chicken, I am a Red-wattled Lapwing.
Congratulations! You have spotted a “Spotted Owl”. Bad joke, we know, but can’t help it. Happy Sighting by the way.
Food, Food everywhere. Yayyyyyy! (Grey Francolin)
Ahhhhhh, it’s such a lazy day. I am so sleepy.
If you are done clicking me, can I sleep now?
Hey there! Did you find Mr. Tiger?
Stop staring and embarrassing me. Haven’t you ever seen any Cormorant drying his wings? By the way, it’s bad manners to look at somebody while their bathing.
It’s my swim and hunt time now, see you guys later!
I am trying to camouflage with the nature. Shhhhh!
Look at my stunt. Can you do this?
So, you have spotted me? Huh? Lucky you! Let me tell you, it’s very difficult to spot me and my pack.
Now, that you are happy spotting me, let me go. I am in a hurry. Byeeeeeeee.
One, two, three… JUMMMPPPP.
Mama, look! They are staring at us. Who are these people and what’s that black thing in their hand?
They are harmless tourists and that black thing is called a camera. Don’t worry, they will just click some photos and move ahead.
No, No, Angry Birds wasn’t based on me. I am not angry, I just have an angry face.
I am taking a quick nap till the time you have rounds in the jungle. Take a round and come back, you shall still find me here.
Hi there, I am the famous ARROWHEAD Tiger of Ranthambhore. I heard some people are looking for me. Hence, I thought, I shouldn’t disappoint them. Huhmm, wait a minute, I can hear a jeep approaching. Looks like they are coming this side. Let me give my entry pose!
Ahhh, this is a nice pose. I am ready. Let me surprise them.
Now, that you are happy spotting me, let me take a nap. I am very sleepy.
Ahhhhhhhhh (Yawn) That nap was quite refreshing.
Hey, see my canines! They are beautiful, aren’t they?
Enough of sleeping. Time for my stroll. Bye, I am heading inside the forest.
Bye for now. It was good spotting you guys. And always remember, “Don’t be sad if you haven’t seen me, be happy that I have seen you.”
We hate paparazzi!!! We don’t want to be clicked, go away.
Well, I know I am pretty and dance well! See my Peacock dance.
I am Nilgai. Actually, the tall, dark, not dark, blue, handsome muscular dude of this jungle.
Shhhhh, don’t make noise. I am hiding here to hunt on fishes. (White Throated Kingfisher)
Kids, spot me? Because, I have definitely spotted you.
Ahh, finally you have spotted me! My eyes are on you kids. You better behave good with the environment. (Brown Fish-Owl)
Let’s play one more game. Spot us now. We are the Spotted Owlet
Ain’t I looking handsome in my trendy Mohawk.
Ahhhhhh, mud rush is happening and I am loving it.
It’s getting dark now. We are heading home.
Hope you enjoyed our forest as mush as we do (Red Vented Bulbul)
Bye guys, visit us again. See you soon! Till then enjoy the beautiful sunset of our forest.
Reaching Ranthambore
Ranthambore National Park is well-connected with all the major cities in India, however the easiest way to reach this park is to take a train to Sawai Madhopur Railway Station. And, If you want a more convenient and faster mode of transport then you can choose traveling by air.
By Air: The nearest airport is Sanganer in Jaipur. There are many flights flying to this airport from major cities. At the airport, you can hire a car to reach Ranthambhore or check with your resort if they offer a drop and pick up facility. The distance between Jaipur and Ranthambore is about 180 km.
By Rail: The nearest station to reach Ranthambhore is Sawai Madhopur. The distance between the station and the park is around 10 kms. From the station you can easily avail cab, taxi and buses.
Stay In Ranthambore
There are many stay options available near the park that offer from a simple to a luxurious stay. We choose to stay at The Machli, A Wilderness Home, named after the famous tigress Machli of Ranthambhore who once upon a time used to rule the jungle and the hearts of people.
If you are looking at a nice and quiet stay then The Machli is an ideal stay. We had a great time at this place. The staff goes out of their way to make you feel at home and are always on their toes to give you an excellent service. The rooms are quite spacious and is well equipped with all the amenities and necessities. The food is yummy and on request they also prepare local Rajasthani cuisine. So, next time you head to Ranthambhore, do give this place a dekko.
For details: http://www.themachli.com/
Best Time To Visit:
Summers and Winters are the best time to visit the jungle. Park remains open from 1st October to the 30th June and closes during the monsoon from July to September.
Checklist:
Rajasthan experiences extreme weather, hence summers mean hot, dry days and winters mean cold, chilly days. You have to be prepared equally for both type of weather. Also, remember when in jungle do not be dressed in bright colors, it makes you more visible to animals and birds, thus reduces your chances of seeing them.
Summer Time:
Temperature soars high during the summer season hence remember to dress up in comfortable and breathable clothes. Things to carry are:
- Hat.
- Scarf to protect from the dust.
- Full sleeves light color cotton or bamboo fabric clothes to protect from sun.
- Sunscreen.
- Lip Balm.
Winter Time:
Do not forget to carry winter clothing. Once inside the jungle, the temperature drops even further. Things to carry are:
- Hat.
- Woolen Caps.
- Scarf.
- Gloves.
- Jackets and Sweaters.
- Sunscreen.
- Moisturizing cream.
- Lip Balm.
Hope, now you are kicked about visiting the jungle soon! But, do remember respect the forest, follow the guidelines and the most important thing “DO NOT LITTER.” Happy Exploring.