Places Visit In Ranthambore

Ranthambore Fort,Ranthambore

Ranthambore Fort lies within the Ranthambore National Park, near the town of Sawai Madhopur, the park being the former hunting grounds of the Maharajahs of Jaipur until the time of India's Independence.

Ranthambore Fort lies within the Ranthambore National Park, near the town of Sawai Madhopur, the park being the former hunting grounds of the Maharajahs of Jaipur until the time of India's Independence. It is a formidable fort having been a focal point of the historical developments of Rajasthan. The fort is known for the glory and valor of Hammir dev of the Chauhan dynasty.In 2013, at the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee, Ranthambore Fort, along with 5 other forts of Rajasthan, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the group Hill Forts of Rajasthan.

This fort stands majestically atop a hill overlooking the entire park. The walk up, one of the only places this mode of transport is possible, is a very refreshing and exciting one as even the big cats have been spotted up there! The view of the surrounding keeps getting better and better as you go up but the view from the fort itself can only be described as breathtaking. It is advisable to take along a good pair of binoculars and if possible a camera with a very powerful lens when visiting the fort. The soaring Serpent eagles, vultures and other birds can be seen at eye level. Many animals can also be seen along the edges of all the water bodies, which are all visible from here. The fort itself also offers many interesting architectural and historical sights worth viewing and photographing. A trip to the fort is a must if you are a first time visitor to the park. A guide with a good knowledge of the fort's history would always be a good idea.

History

The Ranthambore fort was built by a Chauhan Rajput ruler, although the exact name of the ruler is disputed. A widely held belief states that the fort was built the reign of Sapaldaksha, in 944 CE. Another theory states that the fort was built during the reign of Jayant, in 1110 CE. According to Government of Rajasthan's Amber Development & Management Authority, it is likely that the construction started in the mid-10th century during the reign of Sapaldaksha, and continued a few centuries after that.

From a mere wooded jungle to one of the famous wildlife sanctuaries in India, Ranthambore National Park gives wildlife lovers multiple reasons to visit it again and again. Whether it is its history, geography or its rich flora and fauna species, there is some magnetism in its each feature. Placed in the southeastern part of Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park gets its name from the historical fort located within the periphery of the park. The fort is perched high on a hill of about 700ft and is situated about 5km inside the park. Giving tourists one more reason to throng the place, Ranthambore Fort is a part of UNESCO World Heritage Site under the title “Hill Forts of Rajasthan”. To map out the historical marks of Ranthambore National Park, it is obvious to go back in the bygone eras and trace the history of the ancient fort. So, let’s start with the historical expedition of RANTHAMBORE FORT.

Taking a step further in its conservation, the reserved area was declared as ‘Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary’ in 1955 by Indian government which later on transferred under the ‘Project Tiger’ in 1973. And from there onwards the sheer woody surrounding of Ranthambore Fort became Ranthambore Tiger Reserve with a full ban on animals poaching and hunting. In 1980, 282 sq km of the reserve was changed into a national park while the adjacent forest areas were named under Sawai Man Singh Sanctuary and Keladevi Sanctuary. But in 1991, the national park was expanded to 392 sq km by including some of the parts of both Sawai Man Singh and Keladevi sanctuaries. Today, Ranthambore National Park is considered as one of the best places all those who love to watch the most beloved wild cat-TIGER. Other wild animals in the park include leopard, hyena, wild boar, sambar and chital. The park is also the place that bears one of India’s largest banyan trees. A drive around 130 km from Jaipur will take you to this amazing land of wildlife.

Under Chauhans

ts earlier name was Ranastambha or Ranastambhapura. It was associated with Jainism during the reign of Prithviraja I of Chahamana (Chauhan) dynasty in the 12th century. Siddhasenasuri, who lived in the 12th century has included this place in the list of holy Jaina tirthas. In Mughal period, a temple of Mallinatha was built in the fort. After the defeat of Prithviraja III (Prithviraj Chauhan) in 1192 CE, the fort came under the control of the Muslim Ghurid ruler Muhammad of Ghor. Prithviraja's son Govindaraja IV accepted the Ghurid suzerainty, and ruled Ranthambore as his vassal.His descendants made various attempts to become independent. 1569-Akbar's entry into the fort of Ranthambhor The Delhi Sultan Iltutmish captured Ranthambore in 1226, but the Chauhans recaptured it after his death in 1236. The armies of Sultan Nasir ud din Mahmud, led by the future Sultan Balban, unsuccessfully besieged the fortress in 1248 and 1253, but captured from Jaitrasingh Chauhan in 1259. shakti Dev succeeded Jaitrasingh in 1283, and recaptured Ranthambore and enlarged the kingdom. Sultan Jalal ud din Firuz Khilji briefly besieged the fort in 1290-91. In 1299,Maharao Hammir Dev Chauhan sheltered Muhammad Shah, a rebel general of Sultan Ala ud din Khilji, and refused to turn him over to the Sultan. The sultan unsuccessfully besieged the fortress in 1299, but returned in 1301 to personally oversee a long siege, and succeeded in capturing the fort.

Under Mewar

The fortress was captured by the kingdom of Mewar under Rana Hamir Singh (1326–1364) and Rana Kumbha (1433–1468).After the reign of Rana Kumbha's successor Rana Udai Singh I (1468–1473) the fortress passed to the Hada Rajputs of Bundi. Sultan Bahadur Shah of Gujarat captured the fortress from 1532 to 1535. The Mughal Emperor Akbar captured the fortress in 1569. The fortress passed to the Kachwaha Maharajas of Jaipur in the 17th century, and it remained part of Jaipur state until Indian Independence. The area surrounding the fortress became a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur. Jaipur state acceded to India in 1949, becoming part of the state of Rajasthan in 1950. Inside Ranthambore fort there are three Hindu temples dedicated to Ganesh, Shiva and Ramlalaji constructed in 12th and 13th centuries from red Karauli stone. There is also a Jain temple of Lord Sumatinath (5th Jain Tirthankar) and Lord Sambhavanath.

Trinetra Ganesh Temple,Ranthambore

When we say “Pratham Ganesha” in Hindu religion, it is believed to be the Trinetra Ganesha of Ranthambhore. Located in Ranthambore fort of Rajasthan state of India, The Trinetra Ganesha Temple is the famous and oldest temple of Lord Ganesha in Rajasthan that comprises of his whole family all together at one place. The temple is about 12 kms from Sawai Madhopur and is well established in Ranthambhore fort.

The Trinetra Ganesha Temple in Ranthambore, Rajasthan is one the most renowned and oldest temples in Rajasthan. It is the only temple in the world that contains whole family of the Lord Ganesha. The temple is situated in the radiant fortress of Ranthambore which is around 12 kms away from Sawai Madhopur. The story of this temple goes back to the year 1299 when a war broke out between King Hameer and Ala-ud-din Khilji at the Ranthambore fortification. Ruler Hameer was a vigorous enthusiast of Lord Ganesha. The war waged for quite a while and the sustenance stock of King Hameer was running low. In the middle of every issues and strains, he always remembered to worship Lord Ganesha. Ruler Hameer saw Lord Ganesha in his dream and the Lord made a guarantee to him that all the issues that he was confronting would be sorted by the morning. In the morning, a symbol of Lord Ganesha as Trinetra (three eyes) was found embossed in one of the fortification's dividers. As guaranteed by Lord Ganesha an inexplicable occurrence happened and the war got over.

Trinetra Ganesh Temple is situated inside one of the premier wildlife destinations in Rajasthan, Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary. Located in the Sawai Madhopur district, this national park has a tenth century fortress, right inside the compound, where this temple is situated. One of the oldest pilgrimage centers' dedicated to Ganesh, this temple was built in 1300 by King Hammir Dev Chauhan. During an ongoing battle with Ala-ud-din Khilji, King Hammir dreamt of Lord Ganesh promising him that the war would be over by the next day. In the morning an idol of Lord Ganesh with three eyes was found. King Hammir installed this idol along with Sri Riddhi Siddhi, his wife, and his two sons Shub and Labh. Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with great dedication and pomp and thousand of devotees come to worship Lord Ganesh. The best day to visit the temple is Wednesday, the special day dedicated to Lord Ganesh. One can also visit the other monuments like the royal cenotaphs, Hameers' court, Badal Mahal, Dhula Mahal, and Phansi Ghar which are found inside the fort complex. This temple receives several thousands of wedding invites every year; it is a belief to send the first wedding card here.

History

According to the history behind this temple, it is said that in 1299 AD, a war took place between King Hammeer and Alauddin Khilji at the Ranthambore fortification. During the war time, they filled there godowns with foods and other necessary things in Ranthambhore Fort, where the King dwells. As the war lasted for many years, the stored things in godowns were getting over. King Hammer was a great devotee to God Ganesh. One night when he was sleeping, Lord Ganesh came in his dream and said that all the lacking and problems would be over by tomorrow morning. Next day morning, an idol of Lord Ganesh with three eyes (Trinetra) stamped from one of the walls of the fort. Also, a miracle took place and the war got over while the godowns got filled again. In 1300 AD, King Hammer built a temple of Lord Ganesh. He placed the idol of Lord Ganesh, Riddhi Siddhi (his wife) and two sons (Shub Labh) along with the idol of mushak (mouse, his vehicle)

Surwal Lake,Ranthambore

The Surwal lake in Ranthambore is yet another beautiful spot in this vast national park. Late afternoon I got to see so many animals here, even a very big turtle that baked in the afternoon sun!Ranthamore is relatively untouched and you do get to see animals and nature in a relatively pure form. The lake was still relatively full considering it was almost a year since the monsoon season.

Surwal Lake is another popular tourist destination, which offers beautiful view of flora and fauna in Ranthambore. This lake is situated at a distance of 25 km from Ranthambore. The ideal time to visit this place is during the months of November to March, when nature presents beauty at its best. During winters, many migrated birds can be seen at this lake. Plenty of birds which can be witnessed by visitors are demoiselle cranes, pelicans and many others. The place is mostly frequented by nature lovers, who can enjoy sunrise and sunset along with the chirping of birds. Tourists should avoid visiting this place in the months of April and May because there is no water in the lake.

Want an escape from the routine? Surwal lake in Ranthambore is one of the most picturesque options in Ranthambore to go to. Amidst quaint settings that will provide you solace, this lake presents amazing beauty. Winters will be ideal to spend time here as the lake dries out in summers due to shallow water. Thus, it would be best to visit this mesmerizing attraction in Ranthambore from November to March; being a seasonal lake it will disappoint you in rest of the months. The early morning dew in the winter will make you come here. The Surwal Lake is situated near Ranthambore park, a quiet place for escaping the stress. Surwal Lake is famed for the sight seeing of the wildlife majorly birds. Birds here are present in great diversity primarily in the morning when they prey for their breakfast, making their nest and chirping around. The lake brings you melodious singing of the birds and is a great place to observe birds.

Surwal Lake is approachable via 30 minute drive from ranthambhore and 15 minute drive from Sawai madhopur. Surwal Lake is a shallow lake surrounded by farms and villages and considered a haven for bird watching. Walkway / dirt road around Surwal Lake is 7 km in length and on one side there is the lake and on the other side are farms. Waterbirds are visible on the lake especially in second half of winter when water gets shallow and fish eating birds make merry. Other birds are visible around farms / fields / water canals on the other side. Morning time around Sunrise is considered best when more than 50 bird species can be spotted within couple of hours of walk. Some of the species that were spotted include Bar headed Geese, Grey heron, White Breasted Kingfisher, Common Kingfisher, Shrike, Indian Robin, Oriental Magpie Robin, Hoopoe, Common Babbler, Jungle Babbler, Egret, Red Wattled Lapwing, Stilt, River Tern, Pelican etc. Surwal Lake offers an excellent alternative to somewhat touristy Ranthambhore Park safaris and recommended specifically for Bird watchers and Bird Photographers.

Padam Lake,Ranthambore

This is the largest of the lakes present in the park. The famous and beautiful Jogi Mahal is located at the very edge of this lake. When in season, the water lilies that give the lake it's name, can be seen in plenty. In the early hours of the morning and just before sunset, animals can be seen in large numbers on the lake side.

This is the largest of the lakes present in the park. The famous and beautiful Jogi Mahal is located at the very edge of this lake. When in season, the water lilies that give the lake it's name, can be seen in plenty. In the early hours of the morning and just before sunset, animals can be seen in large numbers on the lake side. It is in the shallow waters of this lake that the famous "lake hunters" of Ranthambore operate, the most legendary of which was the tiger, Genghis. It is also along this lake's edges that the rare sighting of the chinkara is most probable.

Padam Lake in Ranthambore is the largest lake in the Ranthambore Park. The lake got its name from the Lotus flowers that bloom here in large numbers when in the season, thus spreading a pink aura in the environment. The water body in Ranthambore is surrounded by the Jogi Mahal from one side. The site of chinkara and deer is common here especially during early morning and evening as they come here to quench their thirst. It is also the hunting spot of Tigers. Padam lake is a good attraction in Ranthambore for those who are seeking an escape from their acrid life and want to come closer to nature. The place also employs photographers who can click the pictures of the mesmerizing view and can also capture the movements of animals.

The famous Ranthambore National Park is home to one of the largest lake around this place named as Padam Talao. The name of this lake comes from the lotus flower (called as Padam in Hindi language) that grows readily here. It is a major source of water for animals and birds living in this national park. It is one of the prominent places where tourists can watch different wildlife animals as they often come here to quench their thirst. Wildlife lovers can climb the machans that are built around this lake and watch the wild inhabitants of this park closely. Ranthambore lies between Vindhyachali and Aravali Mountain range and is very close to the Thar Desert. The name of the place Ranthambore comes from two hills – Ran and Thambor. The history of this place dates back to 12th century, when the Chauhan kings were defeated by Iltutmish and the Ranthambore fort was captured. Later on it was captured back in 13th century by one of the Chauhan Kings – Maharaja Govinda. The Ranthambore fort was also ruled by Emperor Akbar for some time. It is one of the most beautiful forts in Rajasthan.

Kachida Valley,Ranthambore

This valley, which consists of many rocky outcrops and low hills, is located close to the outskirts of the park. A jeep would be the ideal mode of transport when trying to visit this area. This area contains a majority of the Panther population of the park.

This valley, which consists of many rocky outcrops and low hills, is located close to the outskirts of the park. A jeep would be the ideal mode of transport when trying to visit this area. This area contains a majority of the Panther population of the park. The panthers avoid venturing into the main jungle to avoid conflicts with tigers, who are known to kill them. This area also has a good population of beers.

Kachida Valley is situated in the outer region of Ranthambore Park. This place is beautifully blessed with wide range of flora and fauna species. Tourists visiting this valley can witness a huge population of beers and panthers. The leopards in this valley usually stay away from the central location as the tigers dominate this place. Tourists can also see a variety of sloth bears and deer in this valley. The ideal way to visit this valley is by hiring jeeps.

Kachida Valley is the famous tourists place in the Ranthambore located in the close to the outskirts of the Park,here you can see the various rocks and the hills.This valley is also blessed with the high range of the Flora and Fauna and a huge population of the beers and panthers.Leopard are also found there but they cannot be seen in the central location as dominate this place. The jeep is the ideal way of transport to visit the place. The population of the panthers avoid venturing into the main jungle to avoid conflicts with tigers who can kill them.This Valley is situated in the outer region of the Ranthambore Park.

On the road to Paonta Sahib 20 km from Nahan, it is worth while to stop and see a sprawling orchard consisting of citrus plants and mangoes and a fruit canning factory of various kinds of juices, jams, pickles and canned fruits. A little away from Dhaula Kuan is Kastasan Devi temple where Raja Jagat Singh defeated the advancing army of Rustam Qadir Rohilla in a great battle. Their victory is commemorated in the Devi Temple, built in gratitude by the Raja. Dhaula Kuan also has a research station of H.P., KVV where useful research on tropical fruits is carried out.

History

This spot has a lot of appeal attached to it. One of the major tourist attractions, Dhaula Kuan is packed with numerous orchards housing plants of citrus fruits and mango trees.A fruit canning factory can also be spotted there producing various fruit products like jams, pickles, juices and canned fruits. Apart from sprawling orchards, you will also find a Kastasan Devi temple at some distance. This temple, built by Raja Jagat Singh who defeated the army of Rustam Qadir Rohilla, represents the victory in the battle.

Ranthambore National Park,Ranthambore

Ranthambore National Park is a vast wildlife reserve near the town of Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan, northern India. It is a former royal hunting ground and home to tigers, leopards and marsh crocodiles. Its landmarks include the imposing 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, on a hilltop, and the Ganesh Mandir temple. Also in the park, Padam Talao Lake is known for its abundance of water lilies

Ranthambore National Park (Hindi: रणथंभौर राष्ट्रीय उद्यान) or Ranthambhore is one of the largest national parks in northern India, covering entire area of 392 km². It is situated in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan, about 110 km northeast of Kota and 140 km southeast of Jaipur, which is also the nearest airport. The nearest town and railway station is at Sawai Madhopur, about 11 km away. The park is also close to the Kota railway station. RIDCOR operates a mega-highway between Kota and Ranthambhore. Ranthambore National Park lies at the edge of a plateau and is bounded to the north by the Banas River and to the south by the Chambal River. It is named after the historic Ranthambhore fortress, which lies within the park.

Ranthambhore was established as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary in 1955 by the Government of India and was declared one of the Project Tiger reserves in 1973. Ranthambore became a national park in 1980. In 1984, the adjacent forests were declared the Sawai Man Singh Sanctuary and Keladevi Sanctuary, and in 1991 the tiger reserve was enlarged to include the Sawai Man Singh and Keladevi sanctuaries.

Ranthambore wildlife sanctuary is known for its Bengal tigers,and is one of the best places in India to see these animals in their natural jungle habitat. Tigers can be easily spotted even in the daytime. The best times for tiger sightings at Ranthambore National Park are in November and May. The park's deciduous forests are characteristic examples of the type of jungle found in Central India. Other fauna include the Indian leopard, nilgai, wild boar, sambar, striped hyena, sloth bear, southern plains gray langur, rhesus macaque, mugger crocodile and chital. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of trees, plants, birds and reptiles, as well as one of the largest banyan trees in India.