One of the most popular parks which houses the majestic Indian tiger is Ranthambhore National Park, located on the rugged and rocky terrain of Aravalli and Vindhya ranges. Ranthambhore, hailed as one of India's finest wildlife locations, has got its name from the two hills, Ran and Thambor, which are in close proximity.

It was established as a sanctuary in 1959 and included in the very first phase of Project Tiger in 1972. In 1981 Ranthambor was awarded National Park status.

The park is famous for tigers and due to conservation efforts, the tiger population has stabilized if not increased here. The tigers can be spotted quite often even during the day, roaming leisurely, hunting and taking care of their young ones.
Ranthambhore is a heritage site because of the picturesque ruins that dot the park. There are lake palaces, 'chhatris', old fortifications and a majestic 1,000 year old fort overlooking the park. The lovely Jogi Mahal is located at the foot of the fort and gives magnificent view of the Padam Talao, painted white with water lilies.

Tiger
The tiger reigns supreme in Ranthambore. Here one can watch the super-predator, symbol of power, strength and magnificence, the Indian tiger from a close quarter. There are about 25 tigers and 40 leopards in the reserve. These are supported by a large population of healthy herbivores. The park also has sizable number of panthers, though they have been spotted generally at the outskirts of the park perhaps due to the inevitable conflict with the tiger population, that command 'superior' position amidst the predatory cats. For spotting panthers, Kachida Valley is regarded as an ideal place.

Water Bodies and Birds
Jacanas, painted stork, black stork, and white necked stork are seen along the water bodies. Peafowl are found in abundance and other birds include Bonelli's eagle, crested serpent eagle, the great Indian horned owl, quail, partridge, spur fowl and the paradise flycatcher.

The Fort:
Steep crags embraces a network of lakes and rivers, guides you to the impressive Ranthambhore Fort built in the 10th located atop one of the hills. the fort is considered to be one of the oldest forts in the state. Strategically built on the border of Rajasthan and Malwa, the fort houses some splendid monuments, within its precincts. The terrain fluctuates between impregnable forests and open bush land. The forest is the typically dry deciduous type, with Dhok, being the most prominent tree.

The Badal Mahal:
The "palace of the clouds", situated in the fort has a very interesting location and seems as if hanging out in space. The famous 84-column 'chhatri' of King Hammir stands out magnificently where he used to hold an audience. The Padam Talab, the Raj Bagh Talab and the Milak Talab are some of the lakes in the area worth seeing.

How to get there
By Air:
Jaipur (165 km) is the nearest airport.

By Rail:
The Park is around 12 km away from Sawai Madhopur railway station, that lies on the Delhi to Bombay trunk route.

By Road:
A good network of buses connect Sawai Madhopur with quite a few areas around.