The famed tiger reserve of Ranthambore has found quite the fan in Reuben Fernandes.
The famed tiger reserve of Ranthambore has found quite the fan in Reuben Fernandes who has managed to find time to nurture his love of wildlife amid his packed, hectic corporate schedule. Read on as he narrates how.
Thinking of a mid-week break? If you are an adventure junkie, or a wildlife buff, Ranthambore will guarantee you that all-important adrenaline rush. Tucked away in Rajasthan and surrounded by mountains, is this beautiful destination where tigers rule.
With a great mix of ruins – abandoned forts and beautiful lakes, this tiger reserve never fails to surprise tourists.
My trip to the Ranthambore National Park will be one I will cherish for a long, long time to come, thanks to the endless vivid memories with the majestic Tigress we encountered called Arrow Head T-84. The sprawling park has several different zones, with each zone having a different topography that is quite enthralling.
Things to do:
#1 Going On The Tiger’s Trail
Accompanied by a guide and a driver, safaris start quite early in the morning to look out for the magnificent tiger. You have to get out of bed at 5am to make it to the 6am Gypsy Safari at the Ranthambore National Park.
#2 Hiking Up To The Ranthambore Fort
It’s a real pity that many tend to ignore the stunning Ranthambore Fort situated in the heart of the Ranthambore National Park. You can go in your own car but make sure you keep your Pollution Clearance Certificate handy, as you cannot enter the premises without showing it. Wear comfortable shoes and expect to see animals like grey langurs, deer, sambhar, peacocks and many, many birds crossing your way.
The fort offers brilliant views of the entire park. Try sitting at one of the jharokhas and you will be smitten for life.
#3 Shop for some cool souvenirs
Ranthambore offers unique handicraft to take home. You can also pick up some lovely wildlife paintings found at most stores here.
When to visit:
October to February is the best time to visit the park if you love the winter chill. If you want to have a sure shot tiger encounter and if the heat doesn’t bother you, then March to May would be ideal.
How to get there:
By Flight: The nearest airport is Jaipur followed by a lovely picturesque drive to Ranthambore of about 4 hours
By Rail: The nearest station is Sawai Madhopur which is hardly a distance of 15 mins from the Park.
Places to Stay:
Oberoi Vanyavilas – Luxury in the heart of the wilderness is just about right for that perfect holiday. If you think you want to give your holiday a rustic feel, you must stay at one of the oldest resorts in Ranthambore, right at the edge of the park called The Tiger Moon Resort. Fortunately for us, we got a great deal at Ranthambore through an amazing, tourist friendly company called Beyond Wild.
Approximate cost:
A relaxed accommodation offering safaris will cost you Rs 8000 per night.
If you are one of those who wouldn’t want to compromise on luxury, there are tailor-made tours ranging from Rs 35000 to Rs 50000 per night.
