6 Must Visit National Parks in Rajasthan

Rajasthan, known for its royal heritage and cultural richness, also boasts a number of national parks that showcase its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. These parks not only serve as wildlife sanctuaries but also offer a unique opportunity to explore the state's natural beauty. Here's an introduction to some of the major national parks in Rajasthan:

# Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park and Tiger Reserve is a captivating blend of meandering rivulets, towering hills, lush meadows, serene lakes, and dry deciduous forests. It boasts an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, making it one of Rajasthan's largest and most renowned national parks.

In addition to its famous tiger population, Ranthambore is home to species such as sambhar deer, sloth bears, blue bull antelopes, jackals, leopards, foxes, hyenas, and a variety of birds. The park's historic fort, dating back to the 10th century, adds an intriguing touch of history to the experience, recounting tales of romance and battles.

How to Reach?

Ranthambore is located just 14 km from Sawai Madhopur, which is easily accessible by train from Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur, and by road from Jaipur and Delhi. Once in Sawai Madhopur, visitors can take a cab or local bus to reach the park. Several accommodation options are available in Sawai Madhopur.

Timings:

The park is open from October to June, with the best time to visit being from November to March when the weather is cooler. The hottest months are from April to June. The park is open from 7 am to 6 pm.

# Sariska Tiger Reserve

Nestled near the Aravalli hills in Alwar district, Sariska Tiger Reserve is a rich tapestry of flora and fauna. Once devoid of tigers, the reserve saw a revival under the 'Project Tiger' initiative, with tigers from Ranthambore relocated here.

Besides tigers, visitors can spot leopards, chital, sambhar deer, blue bulls, striped hyenas, apes, and four-horned antelopes. Within the reserve, historical landmarks like the Kankarwadi fort and the Pandupol temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, enhance its cultural appeal.

How to Reach?

Sariska is 37 km from Alwar, the nearest railway station. By road, it is 107 km from Jaipur and 200 km from Delhi.

Timings:

The park is open from October to June, with the ideal time to visit being from October to March. It remains open daily from 8 am to 6:30 pm.

# Keoladeo National Park

Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most crucial bird breeding and migratory stopover grounds. Home to over 370 bird species, it is a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by cycle, or rickshaw, and enjoy boat trips at dawn or dusk.

How to Reach?

The Bharatpur railway station is just 5 km from the park, while the nearest airport is Agra, 56 km away. Delhi is 184 km from Bharatpur.

Timings:

The park is open year-round, with the best time to visit being from October to March when migratory birds are in abundance. The park is open from 6 am to 6 pm.

# Desert National Park

Desert National Park is one of the largest national parks globally and features a unique mix of sand dunes, craggy rocks, salt lakes, and intermediate areas. The park is particularly famous for being a haven for migratory birds, including the endangered Great Indian Bustard.

In addition to birds, the park is home to desert foxes, wolves, blackbucks, desert cats, chinkaras, and hedgehogs. It also preserves plant and animal fossils that are around 180 million years old.

How to Reach?

The park is located 40 km from Jaisalmer, accessible by cab or bus.

Timings:

The park is open year-round, with the best time to visit being from November to March. It is open from 12 pm to 5 pm.

# Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Surrounding the Kumbhalgarh Fort, this sanctuary features lush greenery and rugged terrain, offering a stark contrast to Rajasthan's typical arid landscape. The sanctuary was once a royal hunting ground and is home to various wildlife, including wolves, leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, jackals, sambhar, nilgai, four-horned antelopes, and chinkaras.

Birds such as red spur owls, parakeets, golden orioles, and white-breasted kingfishers can also be spotted.

How to Reach?

Kumbhalgarh is accessible by government and private buses, and the nearest railway station is Falna, 80 km away. The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur.

Timings:

The sanctuary is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. The best time to visit is during the monsoon when the sanctuary is at its greenest.

# Bandh Baretha Wildlife Sanctuary

Located near the Kakund River, Bandh Baretha Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rugged terrain and abundance of water bodies. The sanctuary is home to endangered species such as sambhar, cheetal, blue bulls, hyenas, and wild boars, as well as over 200 species of birds, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers.

The ruins of the royal palace of Bharatpur's rulers are also found here.

How to Reach?

Bandh Baretha is 45 km from Bharatpur and is easily accessible by road from Jaipur or Agra.

Timings:

The sanctuary is open from 6 am to 6 pm, with the best time to visit being in February and March.