Ranthambore is internationally acknowledged as one of the last remnants of the once great virgin jungles in central India. Situated in India’s northwestern state of Rajasthan, it is surrounded by the Vindhya and Aravali hill ranges and lies near the outer fringes of the Thar Desert. The entire area of 390 sq km is located 500 m above sea level and is a sprawling tract of desert and semi-desert vegetation. Originally a hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur, Ranthambore was declared a game sanctuary in 1955. In 1980s, it became a national park and was listed among the reserves protected under Project Tiger (1973). Presently the Kaila Devi Sanctuary, also famous for its tigers, and the Man Singh Sanctuary form a part of Ranthambore Reserve.

Ranthambore is probably the best place in the world to photograph the mighty and powerful tiger. Jeep Safaris are exciting options and the chances of spotting a big cat is better than anywhere else in India. Excursions around the park give valuable insights into the culture and tradition of the local people especially the Meena tribes. One can also look for medieval splendour in the form of forts, havelis (mansion), and palaces that are scattered throughout the region. Spending the nights in the many hideouts in the park is another adventurous option.

Ranthambore, which receives thousands of visitors each year, is most famous for its tigers. Tigers here can be spotted quite often in their natural habitat even during daytime. They have been frequently seen at the edges of three lakes-Padam Talab, Raj Bagh Talab and Milak Talab. The park also has panthers in sizable numbers, though they have been spotted generally at the outskirts of the park perhaps due to the inevitable conflict with the tiger population, which command the ‘superior’ position amidst the predatory cats. For spotting panthers, Kachida Valley is regarded as the ideal place.