Posted by on 13th June, 2016.
A rainy day is the perfect time for a walk in the woods” – Rachel Carsen
About 13 kilometers from Jaipur are sprawling lush grounds famous for being the favorite hunting destination of the Maharajas of the region. Ranthambhore. The dream of every nature lover and wildlife photographer. Nobody comes back without having experienced the tiger in its natural habitat, enjoying the best of what nature has to offer. One can spot the nilgai, hyenas, jackals, sloth bears and black bucks. It also has an astounding range of reptiles: Snub-nosed marsh crocodiles, tortoises, kraits and Indian pythons can also be seen.
Situated in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, Ranthambhore covers an area of approximately 400 square kilometers. In 1955, it was established as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary. In 1973, it was declared one among the ‘Project Tiger’ reserves.
The serene beauty of the forest is primarily of two kinds: quiet, lazy meadows and acres of deciduous forests. There are many mango and tamarind trees; the banyan trees here are famously ancient. It is the perfect ensemble for the safari: grass at your feet, wind in your hair and the buzz of life all around keeping the excitement alive. It’s also a delight for birdwatchers. Flamingoes, parakeets, sandpipers and pelicans are a few of the types of birds we see here.
Any discussion of Ranthambhore is incomplete without a mention of the Ranthambhore fort, the 10th century prime focus of many important political developments of Rajasthan. The 700-foot massive structure is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its strong old walls are dotted with the toll the past has taken on it. The fort has been besieged by grand names like Iltutmish, Rana Hamir Singh and Akbar. Three Hindu temples have been there in the fort since ages, and these also attract a lot of attention.
Padam Talao is the largest of the many lakes in the national park. Close by is an ancient banyan tree, considered by many to be one of the oldest in India. On the edge of the lake is the Jogi Mahal, built of red sandstone.
There are a hundred memories and curiosities attached to this beautiful reservoir for birds, trees and tigers. With the passage of time having wiped away the age of fort captures, the present and the future of Ranthambhore are peaceful and untroubled. A visit to this relic of bygone days, which is yet alive and throbbing with warmth and vitality, is a balm for the busy city soul. Sights and sounds of Ranthambhore guarantee peace, joy and an unforgettable experience.