Want to Enjoy Ranthambore Tiger Safari on a Tight Budget? Here’s How You Can Manage Costs and Still Enjoy the Trip
Known for its impressive natural beauty and wildlife, Ranthambore also features the iconic Ranthambore Fort. Your total cost changes based on where you stay, the safari option you select, and how you travel. 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. Another key factor is choosing your preferred safari time slot. 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 free Wi-Fi, AC, geyser, hygienic rooms, and in-house breakfast with tariffs starting at Rs. 2000 per night.
3. Transportation
Reaching Ranthambore is convenient thanks to strong rail and road connectivity, mainly from Jaipur and Delhi. Since this is a budget guide, we focus on affordable travel Tiger Safari Ranthambore via trains and buses.
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 are usually Rs. 200–1000 depending on class, and buses from Jaipur cost about Rs. 500–1500 depending on the category. From Delhi, train fares may range from Rs. 500–1500, while bus travel can cost Rs. 800–2000 depending on the bus chosen.
4. Food
Ranthambore offers many delicious meals with authentic Rajasthani flavours, including Laal Maas, Gatte ki Sabzi, Dal Baati Churma, and breakfast Kachoris. Most budget eateries serve meals priced between Rs. 100 and Rs. 300, covering both North Indian and local Rajasthani foods.
5. Entry Fees
Besides stay, safari, and travel costs, you must also account for entry fees. 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 would cost Rs. 100 to Rs. 500 (as per the type of camera). For a better wildlife spotting experience, hiring a guide is recommended and costs around Rs. 300–500 per safari.