Ranthambore National Park, located in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan, is one of India’s most famous wildlife sanctuaries, known for its Royal Bengal tigers and breathtaking landscapes. Best way Ranthambore from Jaipur, It is a top destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Apart from its rich biodiversity, Ranthambore is home to the historic Ranthambore Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the Hill Forts of Rajasthan. The park is also known for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, deer, crocodiles, and over 250 species of birds.
Why Visit Ranthambore?
- Best place in India to spot tigers in the wild
- Exciting jungle safaris and wildlife photography opportunities
- Ancient temples, lakes, and scenic landscapes inside the park
- Rich history and architecture at Ranthambore Fort
Distance from Jaipur to Ranthambore
- By Road: 180 km (approx. 3.5 to 4 hours by car)
- By Train: 160 km (approx. 2 to 3 hours by express train)
- By Air: No direct flights (Jaipur is the nearest airport)
Now, let’s explore the best ways to reach Ranthambore from Jaipur and choose the most convenient travel option.
Customized Itineraries for Ranthambore Adventures:
- Jaipur & Ranthambore in 5 Days
- Ranthambore Safari: 3-Day Adventure
- Golden Triangle & Ranthambore: 8-Day Trip
- Delhi to Ranthambore: Weekend by Train
2. Best Ways to Reach Ranthambore from Jaipur
There are three main ways to travel from Jaipur to Ranthambore:
- By Train – Fastest and most budget-friendly
- By Road – Best for comfort and flexibility (Car or Bus)
- By Air – Not a direct option, but possible via Jaipur
Each option has its own advantages, depending on your budget, time, and travel preference. Below is a detailed guide to help you choose the best mode of transport.
3. By Train: The Most Convenient Option
Nearest Railway Station to Ranthambore
The nearest railway station to Ranthambore National Park is Sawai Madhopur Junction (SWM), which is just 11 km from the park entrance.
Why choose train travel?
- Fastest option (takes only 2-3 hours)
- Budget-friendly (tickets start from ₹150 for sleeper class)
- Multiple daily trains available
Best Trains from Jaipur to Sawai Madhopur
| Train Name | Train Number | Departure (Jaipur) | Arrival (Sawai Madhopur) | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan Shatabdi Express | 12066 | 2:00 PM | 4:00 PM | 2h | Daily |
| Jaipur Superfast Express | 22988 | 4:30 AM | 6:30 AM | 2h | Daily |
| Kota Jan Shatabdi | 12059 | 5:50 PM | 7:50 PM | 2h | Daily |
| Intercity Express | 19808 | 6:00 AM | 8:15 AM | 2h 15m | Daily |
Train Ticket Prices from Jaipur to Sawai Madhopur
| Class | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| AC Chair Car (CC) | ₹500 – ₹700 |
| Sleeper Class (SL) | ₹150 – ₹250 |
| General Class | ₹100 |
How to Get from Sawai Madhopur Station to Ranthambore
- Auto-Rickshaw: ₹200-₹300 (takes 15 minutes)
- Taxi: ₹500-₹800 (takes 10 minutes)
- Hotel Pickup: Many resorts offer free transfers
4. By Road: Drive from Jaipur to Ranthambore
For those who prefer a road trip, traveling by car or bus is a great option. The journey is scenic, passing through rural Rajasthan, small towns, and mustard fields.
Best Road Route from Jaipur to Ranthambore
Route: Jaipur → Dausa → Lalsot → Sawai Madhopur → Ranthambore
- Distance: 180 km
- Travel Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
- Road Condition: Good (NH 52 and NH 552)
Car Rental & Taxi Options
| Travel Option | Approximate Cost | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Drive Car | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 (fuel) | 3.5-4 hours | Families & groups |
| Private Taxi | ₹4,500 – ₹7,000 | 3.5-4 hours | Comfortable travel |
Best Stops Along the Way
- Bhandarej Baori (Stepwell) in Dausa
- Mehndipur Balaji Temple (for spiritual travelers)
- Lalsot Dhaba for authentic Rajasthani food
5. By Bus: Budget-Friendly Travel Option
For budget travelers, buses are a good alternative to trains.
Bus Options from Jaipur to Sawai Madhopur
- Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) runs regular non-AC and AC buses.
- Private bus operators like Shrinath Travels and Rathi Travels also operate luxury buses.
Bus Ticket Prices
- Non-AC Bus: ₹300 – ₹500
- AC Bus: ₹800 – ₹1,200
Where to Board the Bus in Jaipur?
- Sindhi Camp Bus Stand
- Narayan Singh Circle
Travel Tips for Bus Journey
- Book tickets in advance during peak seasons (October to March).
- Carry snacks and water for a comfortable ride.
6. By Air: Is It Possible?
There is no airport in Ranthambore, and the nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (JAI), which is 180 km away.
Alternative Air Travel Option
- Fly to Jaipur from other cities.
- From Jaipur, take a taxi (₹5,000 – ₹7,000) or train to Ranthambore.
Since Ranthambore is easily accessible by train and road, flying is not a practical option.
7. Best Time to Travel from Jaipur to Ranthambore
| Season | Best Months | Weather Condition | Safari Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | October – March | Pleasant (10-25°C) | Best for wildlife spotting |
| Summer | April – June | Very hot (35-45°C) | Good for tiger sightings near waterholes |
| Monsoon | July – September | Closed for visitors | Park remains shut |
Safari Timings:
- Morning Safari: 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM
- Evening Safari: 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
8. Essential Travel Tips for Ranthambore from Delhi
- Book Your Safari in Advance: The number of jeeps and canters is limited, so book online.
- Best Accommodation: Popular resorts include Taj Sawai, The Oberoi Vanyavilas, and Ranthambore Regency.
- What to Pack: Comfortable clothing, binoculars, camera, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Safety Tips: Follow guide instructions, stay inside the safari vehicle, and avoid feeding animals.
9. Conclusion
Traveling from Jaipur to Ranthambore is quick and convenient, with train travel being the fastest and cheapest option, while road travel offers flexibility and comfort.
Regardless of how you travel, Ranthambore offers an unforgettable experience, from thrilling jungle safaris to stunning landscapes. So, plan your trip, book your safari early, and immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Rajasthan’s most famous tiger reserve!
Discover More:
- Discover Ranthambore Fort – A UNESCO Heritage Gem
- Book Your Ranthambore Safari – Jeep & Canter Options
- Plan Your Ranthambore Trip in January 2025
- Ranthambhore Weather in March 2025: Your Tiger Safari Trip
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