Geo details -
Location : Sawai Madhopur District, Rajasthan
Area : 400 sq km

Introduction -
The only dry and deciduous Tiger reserve habitat in the world, Ranthambore lies in the Sawai Madhopur district of eastern Rajasthan. It is the only abode for wild bengal tigers in the entire Arravli hill ranges. The national park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1957 and in 1974 it gained the protection of "Project Tiger".

The meandering Banas river and still water bodies at Ranthambore makes a picture perfect wildlife park. It is a wildlife enthusiast and photographers dream. This park is located in the area, where the Aravali and the Vindhya hill ranges meet and this confluence is perhaps the reason for the rich bio-diversity. The unique climatic and vegetational features have given rise to forests that are dry and open with stunted ground cover. This makes wildlife viewing much easier on the safari.

With its unique topography, rich flora and fauna, Ranthambore offers the perfect setting to experience the wilds in there purest form.

Flora -
The landscape of Ranthambore is dotted with ancient Banyan Trees, Dhok & Pipal trees, mango trees and crisscrossed with evergreen belts. The terrain comprises of massive rock formations, steep scarps, perennial lakes and streams. The open bush land of the forest suddenly opens up into large areas of Savannah. However, the large area of the forest cover is typically dry deciduous type, with Dhok, being the most prominent tree.

Fauna -
There are over 320 species of birds, both resident and migratory, over 40 species of mammals and over 35 species of reptiles. The tiger reserve is not only the haunt of wild bengal tiger but many other wild cats which include Leopards, Caracals, Jungle cats, Rusty Spotted cats. The ungulates in the reserve include Sambhar, Spotted deer (Chital), Blue bull (Nilgai), Chinkara (Indian gazelle) and Wild boar.

Large mammals that roam around the reigon are the Sloth bear, Indian fox, Jackal, the extremely occasional Wolf, very few Indian wild dogs (Dhole), Small Indian Civet, Palm civet, Common Indian and Ruddy mongoose and Striped Hyena.

The avifauna at Ranthambore is represented by Seed eating birds, Larks, Francolins, Quails, Sand grouse and Thicknees etc.

Nearby Tourist Destinations -
Bakaula :
This area near the tiger reserve dotted with little water holes and thick foliage.

Ranthambore Fort :
This fort stands majestically atop a hill overlooking the entire park.

Kachida Valley :
Located in the outskirts of the park, the valley consists of many rocky outcrops and low hills.

Best Time to Visit -
Best time to visit Ranthambore is between the month of October and March.

How to Reach -
Air : Nearest Airport: Jaipur (145 km.)

Rail : Ranthambore National Park is around 11-kms from Sawai Madhopur railway station. The station lies on the Delhi to Bombay trunk route.

Road : A network of buses connect Sawai Madhopur, the nearest town from Ranthambore to all the major cities within the state of Rajasthan.