Ranthambore National Park has always been one of those places that stays on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list. The vast jungle, the thrill of spotting wildlife, and the historic vibes around the Ranthambore Fort make it a dream destination. But for many visitors, the rising safari and hotel costs sometimes look like a hurdle. A misconception regarding the tour pricing comes with Ranthambore National Park. It is generally considered that the safari experience in Ranthambore National Park is quite expensive. Well, that’s true to some extent. But with efficient and smart planning, there are a lot of ways to save money and craft the Ranthambore tour on a budget. With the right planning and small hacks, you can easily enjoy a budget-friendly Ranthambore safari without cutting down on the experience.
Know the Best Time to Visit on a Budget
The timing of your trip matters a lot if you want to save money. Off-season travel is the best for budget travellers. During the summer or monsoon, the crowd is less and the hotels usually give discounts. This helps in cutting down the cost of both stay and safari. Weekends are often more expensive because more people travel at that time. So, try to plan your Ranthambore trip during weekdays. Another tip is early booking. If you make your Ranthambore National Park booking in advance, you will notice that prices are much more reasonable compared to last-minute reservations.
Smart Safari Booking Hacks
When it comes to safari booking, the earlier the better. Online booking not only saves time but also ensures you get cheaper slots. Between jeep and canter, canter safaris are usually more budget-friendly as they carry more passengers. But if you are travelling in a group, jeep safaris also turn out economical because the cost can be split among friends or family. Another hack is to always use reliable booking portals. Many fake websites are around, so it is safe to book only from authorised sites or trusted travel operators.
Save on Accommodation
Where you stay plays a big role in your budget. Staying right outside the park gates can cost a lot, especially in luxury resorts. But guesthouses and homestays offer much cheaper options without losing comfort. A very good option is Ankur Resort Ranthambore. This hotel is budget-friendly, located just 7.6 km from Zone 6 of the park, and is known for its comfortable stay at fair prices. Many visitors also look for combo packages where safari and stay are included together, which can save you even more.
Budget-Friendly Travel & Transport
Getting to Ranthambore doesn’t have to be expensive. The nearest railway station is Sawai Madhopur, which is well connected with trains from major cities. Train travel is always more affordable than flights or private cabs. Once you reach, you can use shared taxis or local buses to get to your hotel or the park gates. Avoid booking private cabs unless you are travelling with a larger group and splitting the cost.
Essential Hacks for Extra Savings
Here are a few more tips that can help save more:
- Always carry a reusable water bottle and some snacks during your journey so you don’t end up buying overpriced items.
- Avoid last-minute bookings because prices are always higher closer to the date.
- Travel light if possible, as extra luggage means extra transport charges.
- Download travel apps that give deals on hotels and safari bookings.
- Always make early reservations. It not only saves money but also keeps your trip stress-free.
