Ranthambore National Park is a famous national park located in the Sawai Madhopur district of the state of Rajasthan, in northern India. It was established in 1955 as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary and was declared a national park in 1980. The park covers an area of approximately 392 square kilometers and is known for its rich wildlife and the historic Ranthambore Fort.
Flora: The park is located in the arid zone of Rajasthan and is dominated by dry deciduous forests, thorny scrubs, and grasslands. The forest here is mainly composed of Dhok trees, along with other tree species such as Banyan, Tamarind, Mango, and Acacia.
Fauna: Ranthambore National Park is known for its rich and diverse wildlife, and it is home to a wide range of animals such as the Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Striped Hyena, Indian Wild Dog, Sloth Bear, Sambar Deer, Chital, Nilgai, and many more. The park is also home to over 300 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.
Safari: Visitors to Ranthambore National Park can enjoy a safari tour of the park in open-top jeeps or on the back of an elephant. The park is divided into ten zones, and each zone has its own entry gate. The best time to visit the park is from October to June.
Accommodation: There are several accommodation options available near the park, including government-run rest houses, private lodges, and luxury resorts. Visitors can choose to stay inside the park or outside, depending on their preference.
Conservation: Ranthambore National Park is an important conservation site, and efforts are made to preserve the park’s biodiversity. The park has been successful in reintroducing tigers into the area, and it is now one of the best places in India to spot these majestic creatures in the wild. The park also actively involves local communities in conservation efforts, and the park’s eco-tourism initiatives provide an alternative source of livelihood to the local communities.
In conclusion, Ranthambore National Park is a must-visit destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s rich and diverse flora and fauna, coupled with its historic Ranthambore Fort and successful conservation efforts, make it an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Here are a few possible routes by road to reach Ranthambore National Park from Chandigarh:
- Chandigarh – Jaipur – Ranthambore National Park This is the most direct route to Ranthambore National Park from Chandigarh. It covers a distance of approximately 660 km and takes around 11-12 hours to complete. You can start by taking NH44 from Chandigarh towards Delhi, then continue on NH48 towards Jaipur. From Jaipur, take NH21 towards Sawaimadhopur and then continue on to Ranthambore National Park.
- Chandigarh – Agra – Bharatpur – Ranthambore National Park This route covers a distance of around 720 km and takes around 12-13 hours to complete. You can start by taking NH44 from Chandigarh towards Delhi, then continue on to Agra via Yamuna Expressway. From Agra, take NH21 towards Bharatpur and then continue on to Ranthambore National Park.
- Chandigarh – Delhi – Kota – Ranthambore National Park This route covers a distance of around 700 km and takes around 12-13 hours to complete. You can start by taking NH44 from Chandigarh towards Delhi, then continue on to Kota via NH52. From Kota, take NH552 towards Sawai Madhopur and then continue on to Ranthambore National Park.
It’s important to note that these routes may have different road conditions, traffic, and tolls that could impact travel time and costs. Make sure to plan your journey accordingly and take necessary precautions. Also, make sure to check for any travel restrictions or permits required for entering the national park.