Ranthambore

Ranthambore

Ranthambore National Park is situated near the town of Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan. It was a former royal hunting ground and has tigers, leopards and marsh crocodiles on its premises.. The 10th-century Ranthambore Fort is located on a hilltop here as well as Temples. A lake with water lilies called Padam Talao is also situated in the park. Other than taking a Jungle Safari on canters in the park for sighting of tiger, one also has the option to enjoy various other activities i.e. hike to the Ranthambore Fort ; walk around Padam Lake in the park; visit the School of Art or visit a nearby village.

History

It is believed the earliest name of Ranthambore Fort was Ranastambhapura. During Prithviraj Chanuhan’s reign in the 12th century mostly Jains resided here. In 1192 Muhammad Ghori took control of the Fort after defeating Prithviraj Chauhan. However Gori allowed the son of Prithiviraj Chauhan to rule the state as his vassal. The muslims ruled here till 1301 A.D. The Mewars captured the Fort in 1326 and ruled off and on till 1528 A.D. Akbar, the Mughal Emperor captured the Fort in 1568 A.D. The Fort passed on to the Kachwaha dynasty of Jaipur subsequently and the surrounding area around the fort became a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur- till the state merged with Rajasthan, India in 1950. Inside the Fort are three Temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiv and Lord Rama. These were built in the 12th and 13th century.

Ranthambore National Park

A famous wildlife park and good chance for tiger sightings during a drive on canters through the jungle in the Reserve. Adventure and nature lovers may also enjoy nature walks, bird watching, hiking etc.

Padam Talao

The largest lake in the Park has abundant lillies and a green forest in its surrounding. Many species of birds flock around the lake creating a bird watchers paradise. In the morning and evenings one can observe wild animals who visit the lake to drink water.

Kachida Valley

The valley situated at the edge of Ranthambore National Park consists of rocky outcrop and low hills amidst lush green forests. One may see panther, bears here as well as loads of flora and fauna are visible. There are lakes surrounding the valley making it an ideal place for a visit.

National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary

Located in Sawai Madhopur the place has natural beauty all-round. A Chambal River safari on a boat will enable guests to see a diversity of Birds, Crocodiles and Gharials in the swamps.

Ranthambore Fort

From ancient times Royalty stayed in the fort for hunting in the surrounding forest area. The Fort is on the World Heritage list and worth a visit for its history and many battles that have been fought for its acquisition since ancient times.

Trinetra Ganesha Temple

Located within the Ranthambore Fort. The Three-eyed Ganesha Temple was built by King Hameer in ancient times. Legend has it the king was at war and the food situation seemed bleak. One night Lord Ganesha appeared and blessed him saying his problems would soon end. Next day the war ceased and the situation improved for the king, because of which he built a Temple and dedicated the same to Lord Ganesha and the Lord Ganesha’s family. The temple conducts five aartis daily.

Jogi Mahal

The Rajasthani architectural Mahal lies next to Padam Talao and was once a hunting lodge for the royalty of Jaipur and other dignitaries who visited the Park. The lush green scenery around the Mahal is truly eye-catching. A banyan tree here is considered one of the largest in India.

Mansarovar Dam and Lake

Located in Sawai Madhopur the dam and lake are a wonderful place for bird watching, hiking, fishing and for photography. It is also a great place to spot tigers, bears, crocodiles and other animals.

Sawai Madhopur is a good connection between Delhi and Mumbai hence from here one can visit Jaipur (180 Kms); Kota (125 Kms); Bundi (136 Kms) on good highways and rail links.