Ranthambhore is magic. The place is full of romance and intrigue – tenth century ruins stand smothered by roots, herons share lakes with holy men and a million myths about Raja Hamir and the glory days of the 'impregnable' fort. The fort's fall, along with that of the one at Chittorgarh, is what is unanimously credited with finally breaking the spirit of the legendarily resilient Rajputs and the establishing of an undisputed Mughal empire in India.
Ranthambore is a beautiful city located in Sawai Madhopur district of northwestern Indian state Rajasthan. Its affluent tiger reserve is the prime reason for its popularity as a world renowned tourist destination. Nevertheless, it offers abundant of opportunities of sightseeing and excursions to its visitors.
Places of Tourist Interests
National Park :-
One of the finest tiger reserves in the country it is the main attraction of Ranthambore. It is spread over an area of 392 sq. km and full of dry deciduous forests sprawed over the Aravalli and Vindhya ranges. Occasionally one may chance upon a tiger strolling near the Padam Talab, Raj Bagh Talab and Milak Talab. The park also houses some rare species of desert creatures like the sambhar, chital, chinkara, nilgai, langur, wild boar and peafowl. The park was visited by the Bill Clinton during his visit to India.
Ranthambore Fort :-
This fort built by the Chauhans in the 10th century is one of the oldest forts of Rajasthan. Its strategic location was ideal for keeping enemies at bay. The fort is associated with the historical tragedy of royal women performing jauhar (self immolation) when Ala-ud-din Khilji sieged this fort in 1303. The fort has many temples, tanks, massive gates and walls.
Jogi Mahal :-
This is the forest rest house overlooking the pretty Padam Talab. What attracts a large number of tourists every year to the Jogi Mahal is the ancient banyan tree, the second largest banyan tree in India.