Ranthambhor National
Park, before a princely game conserve is the scene where the
celebrated Indian Tiger is best seen. Ranthambhor Tiger Reserve lies
on the junction of Aravali and Vindhyas just 14 Kms from Sawai
Madhopur in Eastern Rajasthan. It sprawls over a varying and
undulating landscape. The scenery changes dramatically from gentle
and steep slopes of the Vindhyas and sharp and conical hills of the
Aravali. A tenth century fort also blends amicably with the
background. Pure sands of Dhok (Anogeissus pendula) interspersed
with grasslands at the plateaus, meadows in valleys and luxuriant
foliage around the canals make the jungle. Three big lakes – Padam
Talab (meaning Lake), Malik Talab and Raj Bagh – are similar
turquoises studded in the vast forest that abounds with aquatic
vegetation including duckweeds, lilies and lotus.
A significant geological
feature within the park is the 'Great Boundary Fault' where the
Vindhaya plateau meets the Aravali range. The Rivers Chambal in the
South and the Banas in the North bound the National Park. The park
is dotted with steep rocky hills and the dominating architecture of
Ranthambhor Fort (built in the 10th century), adds to its landscape.
The rugged park terrain alternates between dry deciduous forest,
open grassy meadow, dotted by several lakes and rivers that are only
made passable by rough roads built and maintained by the Forest
Service.
The tiger is not the only attraction at Ranthambhor;
although it is the one park resident that people come to see. A
variety of birds including Owlets, the ubiquitous Langur (monkey),
Leopard, Caracal, Hyena, Jackal, Jungle Cat, marsh Crocodiles, Wild
Boar, Bears and various species of Deer are the other attractions