Searching for Ways to Explore Ranthambore Safari on a Tight Budget? Here’s How You Can Manage Costs and Still Enjoy the Trip
Ranthambore is well-regarded for stunning landscapes, wildlife safaris, and the iconic Ranthambore Fort. The overall trip expense largely depends on your accommodation, chosen safari type, and transportation. Based in Sawai Madhopur, this national park is considered one of India’s most thrilling places for wildlife exploration. If you want to enjoy a thrilling tiger safari without overspending, this breakdown will guide your budget planning.
Below are the important points to consider while planning tiger tours Ranthambore –
1. Cost of Safari
A jungle safari in Ranthambore offers the best opportunity to spot tigers, leopards, deer, and countless wildlife species. The safari charges differ for Indian tourists and foreign nationals. For smaller groups, jeep safari is available at approximately Rs. 1000–1500 for Indians and Rs. 2500–3000 for foreign tourists.
Canter safari is the most budget-friendly choice for Indians, costing roughly Rs. 800–1000 per person. It is highly recommended to book safari in advance because slots get full quickly during peak seasons like spring and winter. Time slots are other major consideration. To get the slot you prefer, make your reservation as early as possible.
2. Accommodation
Ranthambore offers accommodation choices across budget, mid-range, and luxury categories. Skipping mid-range or luxury, we will discuss only budget category. There are budget hotels available in Ranthambore and Sawai Madhopur offering basic facilities like Ranthambore Tiger Safari free Wi-Fi, AC, geyser, hygienic rooms, and in-house breakfast with tariffs starting at Rs. 2000 per night.
3. Transportation
You can easily reach Ranthambore as it is well connected through rail and road transport, especially from Jaipur and Delhi. As we are speaking of budget travel, we are covering trains and buses here.
If you are getting here by train, Sawai Madhopur is the closest railway station (11 km) located on the route between Delhi and Jaipur. Train fares range roughly from Rs. 200–1000 depending on the class, while buses from Jaipur cost around Rs. 500–1500 based on the bus type. If travelling from Delhi, expect train fare between Rs. 500–1500 and bus fare from Rs. 800–2000 depending on bus type.
4. Food
There is no lack of delicious food options with authentic and pure Rajasthani touch, such as Laal Maas (a unique mutton curry), Gatte ki Sabzi (dumplings made of gram flour dipped in a curry), and Dal Baati Churma (a combo of wheat rolls, lentil soup, and a sweet dish), and Kachoris in breakfast. Budget restaurants cost around Rs. 100 to Rs. 300 per meal including North Indian and local Rajasthani cuisines.
5. Entry Fees
Along with accommodation, safari, and transportation, entry fees are other expenses that should be considered. If you are an Indian tourist, entry fee varies from Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 per person. For foreign national, it would cost Rs. 200 to Rs. 300 per person (fee varies by park’s zone and season). For photography, tourists may be charged Rs. 100–500 depending on camera type. To enhance your safari experience, hiring a guide—priced at about Rs. 300–500—is highly beneficial.