Jaipur and Ranthambore go together naturally. The Pink City has the forts and palaces; Ranthambore, about 160 km away, has the tigers.
By train
Several daily trains connect Jaipur Junction with Sawai Madhopur, taking around 2 to 3 hours. It is the most relaxed way to travel.
By road
The drive takes about 3 to 4 hours through the Rajasthan countryside. A taxi from Jaipur is easy to arrange, and many travellers stop for chai along the way.
Flying in
Jaipur International Airport is the nearest major airport to Ranthambore, so many travellers fly to Jaipur and continue by train or road.
A Jaipur and Ranthambore plan
- Days 1–2: Jaipur: Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, the old bazaars
- Day 3: morning train to Sawai Madhopur, evening safari
- Day 4: morning safari, fort and Trinetra Ganesh, evening safari
- Day 5: morning safari, then on to Agra or back to Jaipur
See our two-day Ranthambore itinerary for the safari days in detail.
Day trip from Jaipur?
It is possible, but a long day: an early start, one safari and a late return. Staying at least one night gives you two or three safaris and a much better chance of a tiger.