Located in Eastern Rajasthan at the confluence of Aravali hill ranges and Vindhyan plateau, Ranthambore National Park is an erstwhile hunting ground of Maharajahs of Jaipur. Two rivers flow through it - Chambal River in South and Banas River in North. Besides this, six man-made lakes and myriad perennial streams pass through the national park. Ranthambore National Park was declared a game sanctuary in 1955 and it attained the status of a national park in 1980. It was declared as a tiger reserve in India with the initiation of Project Tiger in 1972. Spread across in 1,334 sq km along with its adjoining sanctuaries - Kaila Devi Sanctuary and Mansingh Sanctuary, out of the entire park some areas are open for the tourists to wander in and explore the flora and fauna. The dense deciduous forests and rugged terrain are the major highlights of this national park, which is recognized as the largest and most diverse collection of wildlife species in this country.
Wildlife in Ranthambore National Park
Rich and diverse variety of flora and fauna in this national park includes 300 trees, 50 aquatic plants, over 300 species of birds, 12 reptiles and 30 mammals. It is also known for the hegemony of tigers and suitability for taking the snapshots. You also can fond here Leopard, Jungle Cat, Marsh Crocodile, Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, Chinkara, Porcupines, Jackals, Sambhar, Boars, Mongoose, Indian Hare, Monitor Lizards, Chital, Nilgai, Gazzelle and a large number of birds. These wild animals gather near the lakes and water holes in evening. Ranthambore homes about 264 bird species both resident and migratory bird population.

Tigers in Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore Tiger Reserve is homing around 36 tigers and 40 leopards. Observing closely this mighty and agile creature is a memorable experience. You can spot the tigers easily in their natural habitat during daytime specifically at the confluence of three lakes - Padam Talab, Raj Bagh Talab and Milak Talab. Besides tigers a large number of panthers are also seen in plenty at Kachida Valley and at the outskirts of the park.
Flora in Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park is abundant with ancient Banyan Trees, Dhok and Pipal trees and mango trees. You would find two extremes - forests and open bush land in Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary. Dry and deciduous forests are dominated with Dhok trees.
Other Attractions in Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore Fort and Jogi Mahal - Ranthambore Fort occupies its prominence in the heart of the national park. Built by the Chauhans, this 10th century fort is perhaps the oldest existing fort in Rajasthan and specifically in the Malwa plateau. Second-largest Banyan tree in India is located in the forest rest house, Jogi Mahal.

How to Reach Ranthambore National Park
By Air : Pink city of Jaipur (140 km), is the nearest airport to Ranthambore. You can reach Jaipur and move to Sawai Madhopur there onwards by road or rail.

By Rail : Sawai Madhopur (11 km) is accessible by rail and sets on Delhi-Mumbai highway. You can travel up to Sawai Madhopur by rail and take a car or bus there onwards to Ranthambore National Park.

By Road : You can access Ranthambore by road from all destinations across Rajasthan. If you're traveling by road, you have many options to choose from luxurious AC coaches to private taxis and Rajasthan Transport Corporation buses, in which you can reach Ranthambore National Park.