RANTHAMBHORE - Once the favourite hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur, today one of the best reserves in the world to see the majestic Royal Bengal tiger.
The Royal Bengal tigerOriginally founded in the 11th century, Ranthambhore became the private hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur by the turn of 19th century. In 1955 it was declared a National Park. Situated in the Sawai Madhopur district of eastern Rajasthan, it is probably the best place in the world to see the Royal Bengal tiger. The dry deciduous habitat of the reserve makes it much easier to find and observe tigers in their natural wild habitat. Ravines, water bodies and waterfalls add to its beauty and offer many natural hideouts for tiger and other wildlife such as panther, wild cat, hyena, jackal, marsh crocodile, wild boar, bear, many species of deer and a rich birdlife of over 300 species, including the great Indian horned owl.
Ranthambhore Fort is a 10th century fort situated on a hill rising 250 meters above the densely forested valleys. It has majestic ramparts and a massive gate. The entry point to the Ranthambhore National Park leads straight to the foot of the fort.
Gilai Sagar, one of the several water bodies in the vicinity of the Park that attracts thousands of migratory birds, is a 45 minutes drive from the resort.
Ranthambhore School of Art where you can see a wide range of paintings from the exquisite 'Oil on Silk' work to the very artistic charcoal paintings.
The Ranthambhore National ParkThe Oberoi Vanyavilas is India's leading luxury jungle resort and is adjacent to the renowned Ranthambhore Reserve, home to a wide variety of wildlife including the tiger. Accommodation is in the form of twenty-five spacious and well appointed tents, set amidst fragrant lemon and mango trees. All tents have immaculately appointed interiors. Large marble bathrooms feature free-standing bathtubs and separate shower stalls, while each tent also features air-conditioning and a private deck, perfect for sun-bathing. Guests can dine in the restaurant or in the dining courtyard where a log fire is lit in the evenings. During your stay, relax at the resort's swimming pool, visit the therapy suite for a treatment, or enjoy a wildlife lecture by a leading conservationist. Guests can also view the adjacent reserve from the Observation Tower at the resort.
At the end of an eventful day watching a variety of wildlife in the reserve, indulge in a spa therapy or two at the Oberoi Spa where a specially selected menu of treatments leave you refreshed. Guests can also unwind with a swim in the outdoor heated pool.
