Ranthambhor National Park is a national park located in the state of Rajasthan, India. Established in 1980, Ranthambore stands out because of its rich and thickly populated tiger reserves. Blessed with a large number of the Royal Bengal tigers, it’s least surprising that Ranthambore is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The visual feast doesn’t end there. The pure pristine lakes, the stunning deciduous forests, the rich flora and fauna in their natural habitat, and of course, the tigers, the list goes on and on
Be it a solo or a family trip, wildlife of Ranthambhor National Park never fails to meet your expectations. There is no better way to absorb the true essence of this iconic location other than the safari along the reserve. A wide variety of species can be seen via a safari ride. Ranthambore National Park is undoubtedly a paradise for photographers with umpteen number of spellbinding views. Jumping right into it, here are the finest of Ranthambore.
Table of Contents
1. The Magnificent Beast – Tiger
A safari through the tiger reserve is an absolute delight for all the visitors. While the safari opens to an array of flora and fauna never seen before, the magnificent royal Bengal tigers are undoubtedly the quintessential aspect of the safari. These topazes tinted beasts’ possess an unparalleled splendor. As you ride, you notice the tigers piercing their ears as they hear the muffled engine of the gypsy. Stop for a moment and capture the mesmerizing images. Adjusting the camera to etch the image onto your frames, you feel the intimidating death cold stare of the beast. It is impossible to know what is going in their heads. Is it possible that even they know the legends of the times when decades ago, the place was the most popular hunting ground for Rajas and the British officials?
The reserve set up as a part of the Project Tiger Reserve is a success. The large number of these ferocious felines spotted is a testament to that. The thudding heartbeats and the mouth clasped to make no sound so as not to scare them away are all part of this exhilarating experience. Popular for its friendly tigers, it will be a huge loss to miss the tiger reserve and the magnificent Royal Bengal Tiger if you ever visit Ranthambore National Park.
2. The Slow Beauty – Sloth:
Another interesting animal that you can spot during a Ranthambore safari is the sloth. Sloths are considered to be the slowest animals in the world with their speed clocked at 0.003 miles per hour. This is probably the reason why if you ever spot a sloth in your safari it’s probably in a still position. Sure, they might be slow but they are one of the cutest animals. A view of its shaggy black coat, a mane around the face, and its long-pawed claws make it nothing less than a captivating view. They breed during early summer and give birth during winter. So, if you ever plan to make a safari during the colder months, chances are that you’ll see the sloths with their young ones. However, sloths are considered endangered species as they are vulnerable due to habitat destruction. Focus the lens, this slow beauty deserves a frame. Ranthambore National Park is a perfect place for wildlife photographers.
3. The Growling Monster – Leopard:
Sure enough, all the limelight is on the Bengal tiger, but there is one more member from the house of feline that poses a stunning view for the visitors. The growling leopard, lazing under the sun between the unruly shrub is an enchanting view. The grandeur as this enigmatic beast growls with minimum effort but with a reverberation that even the leaves start to rustle will instill a sense of complete awe. The leopard is again another endangered species owing to habitat destruction and is also a rare sight in the Ranthambore safari. So, glue your eyes for this beautiful creature, only the luckiest get a glimpse.
4. The Samba Spectacle – Deer:
Ever seen performers swaying effortlessly to the rhythm in Samba dance? That’s exactly what Sambar deer in Ranthambhor National Park reminds you of as they bound forward at the slightest of the sound. Their ear can catch the sound of the engine and they can sprint with awe-inspiring effortlessness. The pastures and plains of Ranthambore are home to sambar, a large deer native to the subcontinent. They can be spotted drinking water from the streams. They are often hunted down by tigers and leopards in the area. However, it is difficult to spot as they come out mostly during dusk and at night. Their speed, if nothing else is nothing short of a wonder.
Apart from this, many other animals make up this mesmerizing national park. Macaques, Jackals, Jungle cats, Caracals, Blackbucks, Indian Wild Boar, cat, Common Yellow Bats, Desert Cats, Five striped Palm Squirrels, Indian False Vampires, Indian Flying Foxes, etc are some of them.
The Ranthambore National Park safari is an adventure that gives a glimpse of wildlife in the area. It’s undoubtedly an adventure that one should embark upon. After all, life is either a daring adventure or nothing. At least, that’s what Helen Keller said and she is rarely wrong. Ranthambhor National Park should be a must in your bucket list.
If wildlife excites you, then you must visit Jim Corbett National Park too