Five must-try experiences in Ranthambore, one of the most sought-after destinations to witness Royal Bengal tigers
BY NIVEDITH GAJAPATHI
Always fantasized about watching the famous tigers in the wild? Just three hours drive from Jaipur is Ranthambore. It is one of the most sought-after destinations in India to witness the majestic Royal Bengal tigers in the wild.
Here are must-try experiences you should try when you visit Ranthambore.
JUNGLE SAFARI IN RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK
Ranthambore National Park is unquestionably one of the most sought-after national parks in India because of the significant number of Royal Bengal tigers in the area.
This forest is the habitat of numerous prominent tigers and, during the safari season, thousands of tiger enthusiasts from around the globe visit it daily.
Machli, the most acclaimed tiger in the world, passed away in 2016 leaving behind a plethora of legends from her adolescence.
Other than tigers, you can also witness the Indian wolves that can be occasionally seen in the jungle along with jackals, hyenas, foxes, mongooses, leopards, and sloth bears.
The park is also home to a lot of flora and fauna and is a delight for bird photography.
RANTHAMBORE FORT
Ranthambore Fort is a renowned tourism destination, distinguished by its majestic architecture and breathtaking environs.
It was constructed in the 10th century by the Chauhan clan. The fort geography in the Aravali hills and Vindhya plateau is a perfect area to keep the enemy away.
It is well known for its tradition of royal women engaging in ‘Jauhar’ (the practice of mass self-immolation by females to avoid capture, enslavement and rape by invaders) when Alauddin Khilji invaded the fort in 1303.
The fort is an architectural masterpiece that has a lot of attractions nestled inside the fortified walls, such as Mahadeo Chhatri, Sametonki Haveli and Toran Dwar.
If you plan to visit the Ranthambore Fort, approximately three to four hours are required to explore, and it is recommended to take a guide along to know the story of the fort and its rich cultural and historical importance. Please remember to bring water and wear comfortable clothing.
BOOKMARK RESORTS, JOGI MAHAL
Bookmark Resorts, Jogi Mahal is a perfect location for an ideal Ranthambore getaway for those who are in search of a harmonious blend of nature and opulence.
As you arrive at the hotel, you are greeted with traditional Rajasthani folk music and welcome. The hotel design is the amalgamation of traditional Rajasthani architecture and contemporary interpretations, with life-size murals of the jungle and elements from Ranthambore that define the destination.
As you enter the courtyard, you notice the pool which is designed like Rajasthan’s Chand Baori and the property has a lot of intricate Rajasthani architecture influence. The property has a total of 40 rooms out of which 19 are luxury rooms that are equipped with heated plunge pools. They are adorned with beautiful artwork and opulent furnishing.
The rooms have an open-air shower and the ensuite bathroom is equipped with all the necessary amenities for a luxurious stay in Ranthambore.
GASTRONOMIC JOURNEY
A visit to Rajasthan is incomplete without a gastronomical experience from the land of Rajput warriors and royal Maharajas, which is renowned for its diverse and rich culture. The traditional cuisine is a paradise for culinary enthusiasts.
Here are some of the must-try dishes when you are in Ranthambore: Daal Bati Churma and Laal Maas would top the list with Ker Sangri, Gatte ki Sabzi, Rajasthani Kadi, Rajasthani Junglee Maas and Ghewar.
STARGAZING
When you are staying in Ranthambore, one of the many activities that you should try is gaze at the heavenly orbs and be enchanted by their constellations.
It is one of the best Ranthambore experiences with trained astronomers guiding you through the stars. Witness the wonders of the universe while relaxing under Ranthambore’s pristine skies.
The perfect time to visit Ranthambore is generally during the winter season, which is from October to March, with the temperatures favouring all the activities.
