Friday, May 25, 2018

Ranthambhore Where Tigers Rule

Hunting Reserve of an erstwhile Maharajahs, the ruins strike awe as the jeep rolls down the rugged terrain. Ranthambore is well known for its tigers, and the ancient temples, forts, chattris, and hunting lodges are all now throttled down by forests. Decay and withering is the telltale sign of once magnificent structures exhibition of pomp and glory of the Maharajahs of Jaipur - now a bustling capital of Rajasthan.   
Tiger

The rot has not set in for the forests and wild denizens they thrive well. Tigers now occupy the biodiversity-rich region, and tourist flock to admire them. The big cats can be seen here in all their glory in the natural habitat - and who would not like to see them. 

Popular for tiger safaris the ancient ruins and splendorous lakes of the National Park are the jewels of this niche habitat of wild denizens. Not to be left behind, the tourist lodges at Ranthambore are among the finest with a rich tradition of hospitality that equals the days of the Maharajahs living in their opulent palaces and forts.       

Tiger
Besides being home to the big cats, the reserve boasts a wide array of mammals and an amazing flock of avians. Safaris are thrilling, be it on a jeep or a canter, the excitement never mitigates as you get one experience after another, a tiger on the hunt, crocodile basking, and shrill alarms of deer and the Nilgai. 

Tucked away in the chain of Aravali Hills the erstwhile hunting reserve is now the mainstay of tourism in Rajasthan. The big cats have created history after returning from near extinction. Legends (tigers) now eternal have ruled the dazzling heights of the ramparts and the lush green meadows inundated by magnificent lakes large and small.      


Resort Ranthambhore

High-End Hotel 

Luxury Hotel Ranthambore


The canopy, water bodies, grasslands, and torturous terrain create their own niche in which species survive. One of the best places to see tigers in the wild, Ranthambore is the most visited in India. Entrenched in the itinerary of the Golden Triangle many holidays are made here. 
Male Tiger 

Ancient Temple
Lake
Situated near Sawai Madhopur three hours drive from Jaipur the reserve is easy to access. The tourism infrastructure is sound with many five-star and luxury hotels for a memorable stay. Tigers abound and you can see and photograph them with ease. A few days of safaris will offer an experience that no other venue will offer in India.   

Monday, May 14, 2018

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Tadoba Gate
Situated on the banks of the Andhari River the sylvan retreat is a spectacular tiger landscape. Tigers in this wilderness roam free amidst the verdant forests hills and valleys. Tadoba is named after tribal Taru whom the residents still venerate. He was a chieftain who was killed in an encounter with a tiger. A shrine is dedicated to him in the verdant confines of the forest under a large tree near Tadoba Lake.       

Map of Tadoba 



Jeep Safari


The rich biodiversity region is situated in the Indian State of Maharashtra near Chandrapur. Chandrapur is at a distance of approximately one hundred forty kilometers from Nagpur City. The reserve is an amalgamation of Tadoba National Park and Andhari River Wildlife Sanctuary. It is now under the aegis of Project Tiger Program and hence is known as tiger reserve.  
Tiger

The predominately Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests contain diverse flora and fauna. The diversity is incredible in this cradle of  Chimur Hills, Kolsa, and Moharli Ranges. The wide expanse of forests is contained by the Lake which divides the dense canopy from the region containing farmlands and human habitation. The lake is a birder's dream come true with a wide assemblage of shore and wetland birds. The colorful avian is a delight to one's eye, and the melange of colors that they are adorned with is simply striking. Marsh crocodiles make their last stand here after facing persecution all over Maharashtra.      

A safari in the forests of Tadoba is an exciting proposition, especially for wildlife enthusiasts on a holiday. Wildlife at its best can be seen frolicking on the dusty jungle pathways that intersect the forests. Nilgai, sambar,  chital, and barking deer. An exciting encounter with a tiger is what all holidaymakers yearn for, but no less of a thrill is the sight of a slot bear ambling around or a wild dog packing on a hunt. 

Among the other carnivores that inhabit these forests are the leopards one of the World's most enigmatic creatures.  Together the leopard and the tiger constitute a thrilling find on the safari but the jungles of Tadoba have much more to offer. A holistic experience is what enlightened tourists yearn for and I believe the reserve is spectacular.      

For tourism purposes, the park is divided into many zones with dedicated entry gates. Booking a permit in advance is much advisable. This can be done from the office of the DFO at Chandrapur or at the respective entry gates.    

Most of the hotels and resorts are situated around the entry gates. They offer a wide variety of amenities in the remote jungle. You can avail of accommodation in a budget resort or a five-star hotel depending upon the choice and your pocket. Accommodation is also available at State-run MTDC and guest houses belonging to various departments.    

Tourism is controlled in Tadoba Tiger Reserve in India and limited entry is available. For making a holiday here advance planning is a must. In order to reach the preserve one has to arrive at Nagpur and then drive to Chandrapur or the respective gates.