Ranthambore Fort, 10th-century fort in Sawai Madhopur district, India
Ranthambore Fort stands on a hill inside the national park of the same name, showing stone gates, defensive walls, several temples, and water basins from the tenth century. The complex spreads across multiple levels with courtyards, watchtowers, and views over the surrounding wilderness.
Rulers from the Chauhan dynasty began building it in the tenth century as a military base in the region. The fortress changed hands several times through sieges until it fell to the Delhi Sultanate in 1301.
The name comes from two local hills, Ran and Thambhore, that frame the site. Inside, Jain temples with detailed carvings appear as visitors walk through the upper terraces.
Access comes through organized safari drives in the national park, scheduled for mornings and afternoons. Paths inside the fortress are sometimes steep and need sturdy footwear for the climb.
The old cisterns sometimes attract tigers that rest in the shade of the ruins. Visitors can watch wildlife from the upper ramparts as animals move through the lower areas.
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