Ranthambore Fort stands on a hill in the middle of the national park, with views straight down to the lakes. It has watched over the forest for close to a thousand years, and in 2013 it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
A short history
The fort is best known for the Chauhan ruler Rao Hammir Dev, who held it against the army of Alauddin Khalji in 1301. Over the centuries it passed between Rajput and Mughal rulers, and the forest around it later became a royal hunting ground before it was protected as a tiger reserve.
Trinetra Ganesh temple
Inside the walls is the Trinetra Ganesh temple, where Ganesh is shown with three eyes. Devotees from across India send wedding cards and letters to Ganesh here by post, asking for his blessing. The temple is busiest on Wednesdays, on festival days and during the Ganesh Chaturthi fair.
What to see
- Gateways and ramparts along the climb
- Palace ruins, step wells and old reservoirs on the hilltop
- Views over Padam Talao and the forest below
- Langurs along the walls (keep food out of sight)
Practical tips
- You do not need a safari permit to visit the fort
- The climb from the gate takes about 20 to 30 minutes at an easy pace
- Wear comfortable shoes; the path is stone and uneven in places
- Mornings are cooler and quieter than afternoons
Getting there
The fort road runs through the park to the foot of the walls. Our fort cab picks you up at your hotel, waits while you climb and brings you back. Message us on WhatsApp with your date and group size for a quote.