Ranthambhor National Park, before a
princely game conserve is the scene where the celebrated Indian Tiger
is best seen. Ranthambhor Tiger Reserve lies on the junction of Aravali
and Vindhyas just 14 Kms from Sawai Madhopur in Eastern Rajasthan.
Three big lakes – Padam Talab (meaning Lake), Malik Talab and Raj
Bagh – are similar turquoises studded in the vast forest that abounds
with aquatic vegetation including duckweeds, lilies and lotus.
Ranthambhore Tourist Attractions
Ranthambhore National Park
A significant geological feature within the park is the 'Great Boundary
Fault' where the Vindhaya plateau meets the Aravali range. The Rivers
Chambal in the South and the Banas in the North bound the National
Park. The park is dotted with steep rocky hills and the dominating
architecture of Ranthambhor Fort (built in the 10th century), adds
to its landscape.
The tiger is not the only attraction at Ranthambhor; although it is
the one park resident that people come to see.
A variety of birds including Owlets, the ubiquitous Langur (monkey),
Leopard, Caracal, Hyena, Jackal, Jungle Cat, marsh Crocodiles, Wild
Boar, Bears and various species of Deer are the other attractions.
Of course poachers continue their activities with increasing demand
from China for Tiger parts.
There are no accurate figures on how many tigers and poachers kill
other species, but on occasion evidence appears in the form of large
numbers of skins and other body parts found on couriers.
The park is well staffed and the folk who man the centres and the
mandatory guides - one for every vehicle, are knowledgeable of the
terrain and some even know the Latin names of most species.
We were lucky to see several varieties of birds including these owlets
peering through their burrow pictured here on the right and of course
the ubiquitous langur monkey. Other animals in the reserve include
leopard, caracal, hyena, jackal, jungle cat, marsh crocodiles, wild
boar, bears and various species of deer.