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The remains of an Indian cathedral at Ranthambore National Park.

Things to do in  Ranthambore National Park

India’s tiger king

With a population of 80-plus tigers, Rajasthan’s Ranthambore Tiger Reserve is India's undisputed capital of tiger safaris. Most people come here to spot tigers, though plenty of other resident creatures are in the park, including deer, leopards, sloth bears, and hundreds of avian species. Wildlife is the main draw here, but there are a few other things to do in Ranthambore National Park, including visiting the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, which houses a temple dedicated to the elephant-headed god Ganesh.

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When to visit

Ranthambore National Park is open daily throughout the year, but many of the main tiger-sighting areas—Zones 1–5—close from July until the end of September (Zones 6–10 are open year-round). The October–March winter season is considered the best time to visit due to relatively pleasant weather and good chances of spotting wildlife, while May and June temperatures can be uncomfortably hot.

Getting around

Encompassing more than 151 square miles (392 square kilometers), Ranthambore National Park is spread out, so don’t expect to arrive and immediately spot a tiger. Instead, you’ll need to join a morning or afternoon safari (or book a tour package that includes both) and head out aboard a canter (open-top minibus) or Jeep. Guides coordinate with one another to track the whereabouts of tigers in the park to help visitors maximize their chances of sighting them.

Traveler tips

For great views, go to Castle Jhoomar Baori, a heritage hotel run by the Rajasthan state tourism board. Located on a hilltop a short drive from the park, the hotel—the former hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Jaipur—is one of the best places outside the park to spot wildlife, especially if you head up to the hotel's rooftop.

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People Also Ask
Q:How do I get to Ranthambore National Park from nearby cities like Jaipur or Delhi?
A:

Ranthambore Tiger Reserve is located just outside of Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan, about a 3- to 4-hour drive from Jaipur (or about two hours by train on the Mannargudi SF Express). Many tours of India’s Golden Triangle (Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra) include a detour to the park.

Q:What is the best time of year to visit Ranthambore National Park for wildlife sightings?
A:

The best time to visit Ranthambore National Park for wildlife sightings is between October and June. Tigers roam the park in the October­–March cool season, while hot temperatures in April and May often draw the elusive beasts to the park’s watering holes in large numbers.

Q:What wildlife can be spotted in Ranthambore National Park, particularly tigers?
A:

Tigers are the main draw at Ranthambore National Park but aren’t the only creatures you might see. Animals who call this area home include leopards, hyenas, jackals, sloth bears, and all sorts of antelope and deer. Around 300 or so bird species are also found in Ranthambore.

Q:What safari options are available in Ranthambore National Park, and how can I book them?
A:

Ranthambore National Park offers both morning and afternoon safaris in two different types of vehicles: Jeeps and canters (open-air minibusses that seat up to 20 passengers). You can book your safari online in advance, and packages that include transportation from area hotels and beyond are available.

Q:Are there any accommodations available inside Ranthambore National Park?
A:

No, there are no accommodations inside Ranthambore National Park. However, plenty of options are very close to the park, which are ideal for guests hoping to head out on early-morning safaris. Most hotels near Ranthambore National Park are located in the adjacent town of Sawai Madhopur.

Q:What safety precautions should I take while visiting Ranthambore National Park?
A:

The most important thing to know before visiting Ranthambore National Park is to follow your guide's instructions. Most importantly, never get out of your safari vehicle, no matter how tempted you may be to jump out for photos.