Hoping to Enjoy a Budget-Friendly Ranthambore Tiger Safari? Here’s How You Can Manage Costs and Still Enjoy the Trip
Ranthambore is well-known for its picturesque landscapes, thrilling wildlife safaris, and the historic 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.
Here are the key things you must keep in mind when organising 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.
For an Indian on a tight budget, canter safari is the best option, which costs around Rs. 800 to 1000 per person. It is highly recommended to book safari in advance because slots get full quickly during peak seasons like spring and winter. Selecting the right time slot is also important. You should book early to book your preferred slot.
2. Accommodation
You’ll find everything from economical rooms to premium resorts in the Ranthambore region. 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 free Wi-Fi, AC, geyser, hygienic rooms, and in-house breakfast with tariffs starting at Rs. 2000 per night.
3. Transportation
Ranthambore is easily accessible by both road and rail, particularly from major cities like Jaipur and Delhi. Because we are considering budget travel, trains and buses are the suitable options covered here.
If travelling by train, Sawai Madhopur—located 11 km away—is the nearest station on the Delhi–Jaipur route. Train fares are usually Rs. 200–1000 depending on class, and buses from Jaipur cost about Rs. 500–1500 depending on the category. If you are reaching from Delhi, it could cost around Rs. 500 to 1500 by train and Rs. 800 to 2000 by bus (depending upon the type of bus).
4. Food
You’ll find plenty of flavourful Rajasthani dishes like Laal Tiger Tours Ranthambore Maas, Gatte ki Sabzi, Dal Baati Churma, and breakfast Kachoris across eateries. 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. Foreign nationals typically pay between Rs. 200–300 per person, depending on park zone and season. Photography charges range from Rs. 100–500 depending on the camera used. For a better wildlife spotting experience, hiring a guide is recommended and costs around Rs. 300–500 per safari.