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Marsh Crocodiles |
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The most convienently located National Park in the North
Indian state of Rajasthan, Ranthambore is considered by many to be one of Indias
most beautiful national parks. Ranthambore National Park is one
of the prime examples of Project Tiger's conservation efforts in
Rajasthan. Ranthambore National Park covers an area of 400 sq km with many steep crags
embracing a network of lakes and rivers. Atop one of these hills,
the 10th century Ranthambore Fort stands like a silent sentinel. The
terrain is a blend of impregnable forests and open bush land. The
forest is the typically dry deciduous type with dhok being the most
prominent tree. Ranthambore National Park is best known for its tiger population,
and tiger sightings are common here. Apart from tigers, the national park has
its share of panthers, too. Kachida Valley is believed to be the
place to sight these rather elusive cats. One can also find marsh
crocodiles, hyenas, jungle cats and sloth bears apart from Chital,
Nilgai, and Chinkara. The avian population comprises of black
storks, quails, Bonelli's eagles, spur fowls, crested serpent eagles
and painted storks. During the winter months, the national park attracts a
lot of migratory birds, including a variety of ducks. It is the
ideal park for wildlife photography.
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Safari in Ranthambhore
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Game rides in Ranthambhore National Park
Game rides in Ranthambhore National Park are conducted in Four wheel drive Jeeps
and on open top Trucks. Jeep rides must be pre booked 60 days in
advance, since the forest authorities limit the number of Jeeps
entering the Park.
Visiting Ranthambhore
Ranthambore National Park is open from 1st October till 30th of June every year. The
best time to visit Ranthambhore would be from November to March , as
far as the weather is concerned . However, serious wildlife
enthusiasts would be happier visiting the Park during the warmer
months of October, April and May , since Tiger Sightings are
considered better during that time.
Getting to Ranthambhore
Ranthambhore is convienently located , 180 kms/4 hour away from
Jaipur and about 290 kms/6 hours away from Agra . Also, there are
very good trains linking Delhi with Ranthambhore.