Ranthambore National Park, one of India’s most famous wildlife reserves, is renowned for its tiger safaris. Located about 130 km south of Jaipur in Sawai Madhopur district, Rajasthan, the park is named after the historic Ranthambore Fort situated within its boundaries.
In this article, we’ll share a well-planned 2-day travel itinerary for Ranthambore, based on personal experiences, to help you make the most of your visit.
Best Time to Visit Ranthambore
Ranthambore remains open from October to June, but the ideal time to visit is during winter (November to February) when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more frequent. Summers (April-June) are hot but offer better tiger sightings as animals gather near water sources.
How to Reach Ranthambore?
- From Jaipur: The drive to Sawai Madhopur takes around 3 hours.
- By Train: Sawai Madhopur Junction is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
- By Flight: The nearest airport is Jaipur (160 km away). Pro Tip: Flight prices double during peak season, so book in advance.
Where to Stay in Ranthambore?
You can choose from:
- Luxury Resorts (Taj, Oberoi, etc.)
- Budget Hotels & Guest Houses
Important: Book safari permits at least 2 months in advance, especially during peak season (October-April).
Day 1: Exploring Ranthambore Fort & Trinetra Ganesh Temple
1. Ranthambore Fort (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Built in the mid-10th century, this fort is one of Rajasthan’s oldest and most stunning hill forts.
- Spread over 7 km, it offers breathtaking views of the park.
- Entry Fee: ₹100 for Indians, ₹500 for foreigners.
- Time Required: 3-4 hours.
- Tip: Hire a local guide (available at the entrance) to explore hidden historical spots.
2. Trinetra Ganesh Temple
- One of the oldest Ganesh temples in Rajasthan, where Lord Ganesha is worshipped alongside his Riddhi-Siddhi and sons Shubh-Labha.
- Unique Tradition: Devotees send wedding invitations and prayer letters to the temple, believing their wishes will be fulfilled.
Pro Tip: Visit early as the fort closes by 6 PM.
Day 2: Ranthambore Tiger Safari & Chambal Safari
1. Morning Safari (6 AM – 9:30 AM)
- Zones 1-5 are the best for tiger sightings (core areas).
- Zones 6-10 are buffer zones with fewer sightings but still scenic.
- Vehicle Options:
- Canter (20-seater, shared) – Budget-friendly.
- Gypsy (6-seater, private) – More expensive but offers a better experience.
Wildlife to Spot:
- Tigers (if lucky), leopards, sloth bears, deer, and over 300 bird species.
2. Chambal Safari (Optional)
- Located 1 hour from Sawai Madhopur, this 1-hour boat safari on the Chambal River lets you spot:
- Gharials & Crocodiles
- Rare river dolphins
- Migratory birds
Ranthambore offers a perfect mix of wildlife adventure and historical exploration. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, this 2-day itinerary ensures an unforgettable experience.
