4 Places To Visit In Ranthambore

Ranthambore in Rajasthan is famously known as one of the largest Tiger Reserves in India. Dating back to the 13th Century, the 392 sq.km of forest area containing a rich flora and fauna is situated at the eastern end of the Aravalli Hills. The place treasures many wonders from the bygone era and provides tourists to experience nature to its fullest.

Below is the list of the most popular places to visit while you are there:

1. Ranthambore Fort

Ranthambore-Fort

Photo by Devesh Jagatram, CC BY 2.0

Hailed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the majestic Ranthambore Fort was the grand residence of the Maharajas of the Chauhan Dynasty that ruled Rajasthan during the 12th Century. The fort speaks of a rich history going far back in time and has stood high and tall over the changing eras. Located on a hillock, the fort provides a bird’s eye view of the National Park. The fort is an architectural beauty and a photographer’s dream. Apart from the breath-taking view of the forest with its abundance of wildlife, you can also watch the eagles and vultures soaring at eye level from the fort terrace.

2. Jogi Mahal

Located at the heart of the Ranthambore National Park, the intricate red building of Jogi Mahal was at one time the Hunter’s Den of the Rajasthan Monarchy. The Maharaja held hunting excursions that started from this building. The building also has several rooms to accommodate guests.

Jogi Mahal was eventually converted into a Forest Rest House. It’s a favorite abode for tourists who came looking for a quite rendezvous with nature. Although for some reason, the lodge was closed and stay is not permitted here. The nearby Padam Talao Lake provides the Jogi Mahal an excellent view of the different animals that come to drink water. Peacocks and deer can be rampantly seen near the area surrounding the Jogi Mahal.

3. Rajbagh Ruins

Ranthambore also has its share of thrills and mysteries of the ancient times to offer. The ruins of Raj Bagh, beautifully located between two lakes within the Ranthambore National Forest are a footmark of the ancient era. The series of broken stone monuments, palace outhouses and arches denote the picture of a thriving ancient town that once existed.

Surrounded by lush greenery and the sparkling waters of the Padam Talao and Raj Bagh Talao on either side, the place provides a mesmerizing view. All kinds of animals can be seen as they congregate near the lakes to drink water and cool off their bodies.

4. Padam Talao

Padam Talao is the largest lake situated inside the Ranthambore National Park. Graced by the magnificent view of the Jogi Mahal on one embankment and surrounded by the serene silence of dense forest, the lake is a paradise for the tourist’s eyes. The lake is beautifully bordered with blooming wild lilies providing an eye-catching panorama for the photographer’s lens. The view of the sunset adding a dash of orange to the color of the lake and creating sinister rays flashing through the tall trees makes for a soul-touching experience.

Wild animals aplenty throng the banks of the lake all day. The Padam Talao is known to be the place for a rare sighting of the extremely elusive Chinkara.

Colorful Ranthambore, with its forests alive with the wonders of nature and its old world charm is one of the places that will surely give you everlasting memories of a vacation well spent!