Twice in a week, thats how our Ranthambore experience started.Ranthambhore is one of the largest national parks in northern India, covering entire area of 400 km². It is situated in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan. Ranthambore is best known for its large tiger population.
Tigers: Ranthambore is one of the best national parks in the country for spotting a tiger. The majestic predator can be spotted ambling or basking under the sun.According to the 2014 census of tigers, there were 62 tigers in Ranthambore National Park.
Safari Rides: Rides are carried out at 6:30 and 14:30. Each ride lasts for about three hours. There are two options of vehicles for the safari: 20 seater open top canter or 6 seater open top gypsy. Each ride costs around Rs700-800 per person. The core park area has been divided into several zones and the safari vehicles go to one of those zones. Visitors often take multiple tours, as tiger spotting is rare. There are many resorts to stay in on the way from Sawai Madhopur to the national park. My favorite zone was ZONE no. 3.
The first time we went this is what we saw:
It was soooooo sad. All we saw was a pug mark, some poop and greenery. We were so disappointed from our game ride in the morning that we went in the evening too trying to be optimistic. FAIL. Still nothing. Heard about the other groups getting to see the tiger "hunting" or catching glimpses of the other tigers. We were frustrated and therefore decided that we will go back to Jaipur and come back the same weekend to give it another try. We were in for some major luck.
OUR REAL EXPERIENCE
Within few minutes inside the park. We spotted our first glimpse of this majestic beast. Our driver was awesome. He made sure that we stayed patient and was sure the cat will come out and up close to us. And she did.
Thats the most famous Tigress from Ranthmbore "Machli". Unfortunately she died few months ago. She is the most photographed tigress of all time.
AT THE END OF THE TRIP :D
