Ranthambore is one of the world's finest locations to watch the majestic Tigers. Named after a 1,000 year old fortress, the dry deciduous forest is entangled in the ruins of a historic past.
It is the only place in the world where Tigers use old palaces and ruins for shelter and rest, and one of the few places where both male and female tigers play vital roles in bringing up cubs, and where they fight crocodiles and charge into lakes to kill deer. Ranthambore has evolved from a relatively unknown area to one of India's most-frequented destination. We have every reason to be proud.
Near Khilchipur village, the DASTKAR Kendra was built to provide income for families who were displaced when the park was created. It stocks bright-hued bags, pillows, lehengas, toys, block-print fabric, tie dye embroidery and mirror work.
A small NGO, Tiger Watch works to protect the park against intruders. They run Dhink, a store in the Maa forestry farm on Ranthambore Road that rehabilitates the children of families that have been traditionally engaged in poaching. It's a wonderful place to buy bags, wildlife photographs and other souvenirs.
Young painters from surrounding schools are engaged in the area's ingenious style of painting tigers on cloth at the Ranthambore School of Art and Wildlife Conservation on Ranthambore Road. Visit for some spectacular pieces.
Visit Jogi Mahal rest house at the edge of Lotus Lake. This is a lovely setting and is encircled by some of India's largest Banyan Trees.
The lake and palace ruins of Raj Bagh are lovely to drive around and wait for Tigers to appear. The bird life is extraordinary and scores of crocodiles glide the waters of the lake.
Drive up Kukraj Mountain, down into the Lahpur Valley, around the cliffs of Phutakot and back to the lakes of Padam Talao and Raj Bagh.
For the more adventurous, a boat-ride on the Chambal River and an excursion to the Khandar is very fulfilling.
Ranthambore has dozens of hotels close to the park and endless places to eat at. But for those who would rather preserve their energies for safaris, there are decent lodgings that also provide local and international food options. Reserve a tent at Sher Bagh Resort and fill up on their pastas and salads.
The East-Asian fare at The Oberoi Vanyavilas makes for a refreshing change from Indian cuisine. With the tents offering things like satellite TV and internet access, life in the jungle won't seem rustic.
At Khem Villas, the food is all vegetarian, organic and locally sourced and delicious. Choose from a tent, a cottage or a regular room in which to enjoy your meals.
A good guide can elevate a safari into a wondrous journey of discovery. At the Ranthambore National Park, book your tours with Shyamji, Salim or Pankaj. Mention Tripoto, they'll be more than happy to show you that there's even more to the jungle than brilliant tiger spotting.
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