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Ranthambore National Park
Location : Ranthambore, Rajasthan
Area : 1,334 Sq Kms
Specialty : Tigers
Main species found: Tiger, panther, hyena, jackal, jungle cat, civet, sambar, chital, nilgai, bear, wild boar, partridge, storks, green pigeon, peafowl, red spurfowl, the great Indian horned owl, etc.
Best time to visit: Oct.-June
Ranthambore was decalred a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and became part of Project Tiger in 1973. Ranthambore was the smallest of nine areas selected for Project Tiger, but it was beleived that this 392 sq km, dry deciduous habitat could viably sustain a healthy tiger population. Later additions have increased the park size to 1,330 sq km but with a core area of only 275 sq km in size. Between 1976 to 1979, 12 villages that existed within the park were relocated outside.
Ranthambore is a heritage site because of the picturesque ruins that dot the park. There are lake palaces, 'chhatris', old fortifications and a majestic 1,000-year-old fort, overlooking the park. The lovely Jogi Mahal is located at the foot of the fort and gives magnificent view of the Padam Talao, painted white with water lilies. The park is famous for tigers and due to conservation efforts, the tiger population has stabilized if not increased here. The tigers can be spotted quite often even during the day, at their normal pursuits-- hunting and taking care of their young ones. Ranthambore is one of the best places to see these majestic predators.
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