Rajasthan, the “Land of Kings,” is not only known for its magnificent palaces and vibrant culture but also for its significant role in the conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger. The state is home to five tiger reserves, each offering a unique wildlife experience and a chance to witness these majestic felines in their natural habitat. These reserves are Ranthambore, Sariska, Mukundra Hills, Ramgarh Vishdhari, and the newly notified Dholpur-Karauli.
1. Ranthambore Tiger Reserve
Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, located in the Sawai Madhopur district, is arguably the most famous and frequented of all the tiger reserves in Rajasthan. Once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur, it was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and became one of the first Project Tiger reserves in 1973. Ranthambore’s landscape is a fascinating mix of rolling hills, grassy meadows, and vast plains, with the historic Ranthambore Fort perched atop a hill, offering a unique blend of history and wildlife.
Key Features & Safari Information:
- Habitat: The reserve is characterized by dry deciduous forests and grasslands, dotted with several lakes and water bodies like Padam Talao, Raj Bagh Talao, and Malik Talao, which are prime spots for tiger sightings.
- Wildlife: While tigers are the main attraction, the park is also home to leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, sambar deer, nilgai, and a wide variety of birds.
- Safari: The park is divided into ten zones, and safaris are conducted in open-air jeeps (for up to 6 people) and canters (for up to 20 people). It is highly recommended to book your safari well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season from October to April.
2. Sariska Tiger Reserve
Sariska Tiger Reserve, situated in the Alwar district, holds a significant place in the history of tiger conservation in India. It was one of the first reserves in the world to successfully relocate and re-establish a tiger population after they went locally extinct due to poaching. Sariska’s rugged landscape of dry deciduous forests, rocky cliffs, and grasslands provides a different kind of thrill for wildlife enthusiasts.
Key Features & Safari Information:
- Habitat: The reserve is spread across the Aravalli hills and is a mix of scrub-thorn forests and grasslands. It also has historical sites like the Kankwadi Fort and the Pandupol Hanuman Temple within its premises.
- Wildlife: In addition to tigers, Sariska is known for leopards, jungle cats, wild boars, sambar, and a diverse range of bird species.
- Safari: Jeep and canter safaris are available. It’s important to note that the reserve’s core zones are often closed during the monsoon season (July to September), though some buffer zones may remain open.
3. Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve
Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, located near Kota, is the third tiger reserve in Rajasthan. It was notified in 2013 and comprises the area of Mukundra National Park, Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, Jawahar Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, and a part of the National Chambal Sanctuary. The reserve’s landscape is defined by two parallel hills of the Vindhyan range and is bisected by the Chambal River.
Key Features & Safari Information:
- Habitat: The terrain is a mix of dense forests and rocky hills, providing a unique habitat for wildlife. The Chambal River, which flows through the reserve, also adds a different dimension to the ecosystem.
- Wildlife: The reserve is home to leopards, sloth bears, chinkara, and nilgai. While tigers have been translocated to the area, their presence is still being established, making sightings a bit more challenging than in Ranthambore.
- Safari: Safari bookings are available, and the experience is often more about exploring the diverse landscape and enjoying the tranquility of the forest.
4. Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve
Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve, located in the Bundi district, was declared a tiger reserve in 2022, making it the fourth in Rajasthan and the 52nd in India. This reserve is strategically important as it acts as a crucial corridor for tigers moving between Ranthambore and Mukundra Hills.
Key Features & Safari Information:
- Habitat: The reserve’s landscape is a mix of Vindhyan and Aravalli elements, with rugged, hilly terrain and a dominant presence of ‘dhok’ trees. The Mez River, a tributary of the Chambal, flows through the reserve.
- Wildlife: Apart from tigers, the reserve is home to leopards, sloth bears, sambar, wild boars, and a rich variety of birdlife.
- Safari: As a newer reserve, the tourism infrastructure is still developing, but safaris are available and provide an opportunity to explore a less-crowded and pristine wilderness.
5. Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve
The Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve, the most recent addition to Rajasthan’s list, was officially notified in 2023. It encompasses the Van Vihar and Dholpur Wildlife Sanctuaries and a portion of the Chambal Sanctuary. This new reserve is expected to play a vital role in connecting tiger populations in Rajasthan and neighboring states. While tourism infrastructure is still in its nascent stages, its notification marks a significant step in the state’s tiger conservation efforts.