Want to Enjoy Ranthambore Tiger Safari on a Tight Budget? Here’s How You Can Manage Costs and Still Enjoy the Trip
Ranthambore is well-known for its scenic landscapes, thrilling wildlife safaris, and the historic 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.
Below are the important points to consider while planning tiger tours Ranthambore –
1. Cost of Safari
To get a close encounter with tigers, deer, leopards, and other wildlife, there is no better option than a jungle safari in Ranthambore. Safari cost depends upon whether you are a foreigner or local tourist. If you prefer a compact group experience, jeep safari pricing ranges between Rs. 1000–1500 for Indians and Rs. 2500–3000 for foreigners.
Canter safari is the most budget-friendly choice for Indians, costing roughly Rs. 800–1000 per person. Since safari seats sell out quickly—especially during spring and winter—it’s wise to book ahead. Selecting the right time slot is also important. To get the slot you prefer, make your reservation as early as possible.
2. Accommodation
There are wide range of accommodation options available, i.e., from budget to luxury. Here, we focus specifically on the budget-friendly stay options. 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, Ranthambore Tiger Safari particularly from major cities like Jaipur and Delhi. Because we are considering budget travel, trains and buses are the suitable options covered 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. 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
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
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. For foreign national, it would cost Rs. 200 to Rs. 300 per person (fee varies by park’s zone and season). Photography would cost Rs. 100 to Rs. 500 (as per the type of camera). For best safari experience, hiring a guide is worth for spotting wildlife, which would cost Rs. 300 to 500 per safari.