Not far from Jaipur on the outskirts of the jungle, the city of Sawai Madhopur is best known as the gateway to Ranthambore National Park, India’s most famous tiger reserve and a great place for wildlife safaris. Going on game drives through the park is one of the main things to do in Sawai Madhopur, but it’s not the city’s only draw. Within the confines of Ranthambore National Park, the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort is a must-see—it houses a famous temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles.
The best time to visit Sawai Madhopur is from the middle of October until late June, when all of Ranthambore National Park is open (only Zones 6–10 are open year-round). If possible, try to visit between October and March—the weather is relatively cool, and your chances of spotting a tiger are at their highest (the May–June heat can be too much for both humans and big cats). Note that safaris operate on a more limited basis on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Sawai Madhopur is easy to get around. Many of the city’s hotels and restaurants are within walking distance of one another, and there are auto-rickshaws and taxis for when you need to travel longer distances, such as to the railway station. If you’re planning on going on a tiger safari, your best bet is to book a tour that includes transportation from your hotel so that you won’t have to scramble to find your way to the park.
There are two types of safari options available in Ranthambore National Park: Jeep safaris, which are more intimate albeit slightly more expensive, and canter safaris, which take place aboard an open-air, 20-seat minibus. Both types are known to sell out, often well in advance, so it’s crucial that you book your seats ahead of time to avoid disappointment. This is especially vital if you have a particular safari type in mind.
