Ranthambore Fort

Sawai Madhopur featuring heritage elements and interior views
Sawai Madhopur featuring heritage architecture
Sawai Madhopur showing a ruin and heritage elements
Sawai Madhopur showing land animals as well as an individual male
Sawai Madhopur featuring heritage elements

Visit temples, walk in the footsteps of ancient kings and spot wildlife at this 1st-century castle looming over the wild landscapes of Ranthambore National Park.

Ranthambore Fort is a colossal citadel set amid the rugged countryside of one of Rajasthan’s biggest national parks. This UNESCO-protected landmark sits on a hilltop and is filled with the history and mysticism of the kings, pilgrims and soldiers who once walked its grounds. Stroll along the overgrown alleys of Ranthambore Fort to discover sacred bathing ghats, chhatris and temples. Climb up onto the ramparts for far-reaching views and wildlife-watching opportunities.

Popular theory suggests that the fort dates back to 944 A.D., when it was built by the Chauhan Rajputs as a tactical location between two old trade routes. During its thousand-year history it has been passed between the Ghurids, the Sultans of Delhi, the Kachwaha Maharajas and the Mughals. Each helped to shape the village-like network of courtyards, gateways, pavilions, paths and staircases that remain today.

Follow the inclined pathway and steps up to the Badal Mahal walls, at the fort’s northern tip. This area presents some of the best panoramas of the complex and encompassing national park. See eagles, falcons, peacocks, vultures and some of the park’s other 250 resident birds. Lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of a majestic tiger as it prowls over the grasslands.

Within the castle are about half a dozen temples, which are frequently visited by pilgrims. Among these are shrines devoted to the Hindu gods Ganesh, Rama and Shiva. There are also Jain temples and an impressive chhatri (dome-shaped pavilion) supported by 32 pillars. Watch as langur monkeys play at the temples and cool off at the bathing ghat. Note the stone sculptures of deities and mythological creatures.

The town of Sawai Madhopur, located 10 miles (17 kilometres) to the west, is the main gateway to the fort. Ride in a shared or private jeep taxi, which operate throughout the day between the town, fort and park.

Visit Ranthambore Fort from sunrise to sunset with free admission. The eastern section of the fort is off-limits due to the presence of free-roaming wild animals.

Plan a trip to see Ranthambore Fort

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Umaid Mahal - A Heritage Style Boutique Hotel

Umaid Mahal - A Heritage Style Boutique Hotel

4 out of 5
Bani Park
per person
5 Oct - 11 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
London (LON) to Jaipur (JAI)
8.8/10 Excellent! (559 reviews)
Comfortable, spacious, clean and stylish rooms. Welcoming and helpful service.

Reviewed on 31 Mar 2025

Umaid Bhawan - A Heritage Style Boutique Hotel

Umaid Bhawan - A Heritage Style Boutique Hotel

4 out of 5
Bani Park
per person
5 Oct - 11 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
London (LON) to Jaipur (JAI)
8.8/10 Excellent! (787 reviews)
Our recent two-night stay at Umaid Bhawan was satisfactory overall. While we appreciated the pleasant ambiance and friendly staff, two areas impacted our experience: room maintenance and food quality. Upon arrival, our room had a strong smoke odor. Additionally, the shower gel dispensers were empty and remained unfilled even after we requested a refill at reception on our first day, eventually receiving small soap containers after a follow-up. The food, particularly the Rajasthani dishes we ordered, was average and did not meet our expectations for local cuisine.

Reviewed on 9 Jul 2025

Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar

Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar

4 out of 5
per person
5 Oct - 11 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
London (LON) to Jaipur (JAI)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (116 reviews)
Everything in the property was excellent.The property seemed to be well maintained and beautiful.Overall experience was excellent

Reviewed on 24 Jul 2025

Popular places to visit

Ranthambore National Park showing animals and tranquil scenes

Ranthambore National Park

Join a jeep safari in search of the Bengal tiger, visit an ancient fort and marvel at a natural landscape of lotus-filled lakes and forest-covered valleys.

Ranthambore National Park

Ganesh Temple

Learn about the local history of Sawai Madhopur with a stop at Ganesh Temple. Amble around the area's parks or seek out its safari tours.

Ganesh Temple

Jogi Mahal

Learn about the local history of Sawai Madhopur with a stop at Jogi Mahal. Amble around the area's parks or seek out its safari tours.

Jogi Mahal

Padam Talao

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Padam Talao during your travels in Sawai Madhopur. Amble around the area's parks or seek out its safari tours.

Padam Talao

Malik Talao

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Malik Talao during your travels in Sawai Madhopur. Amble around the area's parks or seek out its safari tours.

Malik Talao

Amareshwar Mahadev Temple

Find out about the history of Sawai Madhopur when you take a trip to Amareshwar Mahadev Temple. Amble around the area's parks or seek out its safari tours.

Amareshwar Mahadev Temple

Top Hotel Deals

Tiger Retreat

Tiger Retreat

2 out of 5
Near Oberoi Hotel Ranthambore Road, Ranthambore Road, Sawai Madhopur, RJ
Tiger Retreat
Aranya Vilas, Ranthambhore

Aranya Vilas, Ranthambhore

2.5 out of 5
Village Kutalpura Maliyan Sawai Madhopur, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
Aranya Vilas, Ranthambhore
Taj Sawai Ranthambore

Taj Sawai Ranthambore

5 out of 5
Ranthambhor Rd, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
Taj Sawai Ranthambore
The Earth At Ranthambore

The Earth At Ranthambore

4 out of 5
Ranthambore Road, Near Helipad, Village Khilchipur, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
The Earth At Ranthambore
Moustache Ranthambore Luxuria

Moustache Ranthambore Luxuria

3 out of 5
Sawai Madhopur 3C3H WG Sherpur, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
Moustache Ranthambore Luxuria
Khem Villas

Khem Villas

4 out of 5
Khilchipur, Sherpur, Khem Villas Sherpur, Khilchipu, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
Khem Villas
The Tigress Resort & Spa, Ranthambore

The Tigress Resort & Spa, Ranthambore

4.5 out of 5
Khilchipur Village, Near Helipad, Ranthambore, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
The Tigress Resort & Spa, Ranthambore
“ The Pugmark “ – A Wildlife Resort”

“ The Pugmark “ – A Wildlife Resort”

4 out of 5
Village Khilchipur, Ranthambore, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
“ The Pugmark “ – A Wildlife Resort”
Aamaghati Wildlife Resort

Aamaghati Wildlife Resort

4.5 out of 5
Near Govt. Primar School, Aamaghati, Ramthambore Road, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
Aamaghati Wildlife Resort
See all 131 properties in Ranthambore Fort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do in Ranthambore Fort

At Ranthambore Fort, visitors can indulge in thrilling safaris that showcase the region's stunning wildlife, making it perfect for family outings. There are options for adventurous canter tours and tailored experiences to suit various preferences. Additionally, the area offers more tent accommodations for those seeking a closer connection to nature while enjoying the breathtaking surroundings of this historical site.

Shopping

In Ranthambore Fort, you can find local markets offering handcrafted souvenirs and textiles. If you're up for a drive, visit the Sawai Madhopur City Market, where vibrant stalls feature traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, and explore the nearby Rajasthani Emporium for unique gifts and artefacts.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the Ranthambore Heritage Haveli Spa, where you can indulge in traditional Ayurvedic treatments and massages. For outdoor activities, embark on a guided nature walk through the stunning landscapes surrounding Ranthambore Fort, immersing yourself in the rich biodiversity of the region.

Adventure

Explore the impressive Ranthambore Fort, set atop a hill, and discover its ancient architecture and stunning views. Engage in a thrilling jeep safari in the Ranthambore National Park to spot tigers and diverse wildlife, enhancing your adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Rajasthan.

Nightlife

In Ranthambore Fort, the nightlife is tranquil yet captivating. The heritage hotels often host cultural performances, while local eateries serve authentic Rajasthani cuisine under starry skies. The atmosphere is enriched by traditional music, making it a delightful experience for those seeking a unique evening out.

Find the best attractions near Ranthambore Fort

Ranthambore Fort offers a rich blend of history and culture, featuring a historic palace, temples, and serene lakes. This destination is perfect for travellers seeking cultural experiences, stunning scenery, and wildlife adventures. Nearby attractions include Ranthambore National Park, where you can explore its diverse fauna. For a comfortable stay, consider hotels near Ranthambore Fort and the national park, ensuring a convenient base for your explorations.

  • Ganesh Temple: Located a mere 124m from Ranthambore Fort, this temple radiates cultural vibes, offering a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer. The intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance make it a unique spot for visitors seeking to connect with local traditions.
  • Jogi Mahal: Just 186m away, this historic palace boasts a rich heritage and stunning views. Once a hunting lodge for the Maharajas, it invites you to explore its regal past while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty, adding depth to your visit.
  • Padam Talao: Situated 249m from the fort, this picturesque lake is perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat in nature. With its scenic views and tranquil environment, it’s ideal for leisurely strolls and unwinding amidst the outdoors.

Best time to go to Ranthambore Fort

The best time to visit Ranthambore Fort is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January61.5°F (16.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighSlightly High
February68.9°F (20.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
March79.9°F (26.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighAverage
April90.1°F (32.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May96.8°F (36.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June96.1°F (35.6°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
July88.0°F (31.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
August84.0°F (28.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
September84.2°F (29.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
October81.7°F (27.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
November73.0°F (22.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
December64.0°F (17.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ranthambore Fort

To save money on your trip to Ranthambore Fort, consider visiting in the cheaper months of May or July to August, avoiding the pricier February, September, and December. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia's last-minute deals for potential savings. Saturdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Wednesdays are the most costly. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter options by price and combine bookings for hotels, flights, and activities to secure the best deals. Look for the green banner on Expedia for special offers.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Ranthambore Fort are May and July to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, September and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Ranthambore Fort is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Ranthambore Fort is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Ranthambore Fort is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking at Ranthambore Fort with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.