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17 Things To Know Before Travelling to Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan, 322001
1. Destination Overview of Sawai Madhopur:
Sawai Madhopur is a city located in the eastern part of Rajasthan, India. It is home to one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries, the Ranthambore National Park. It is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts and is popular for its tiger safaris. The city is also known for its rich art and culture, with several temples and monuments.
2. Top Activities to do in Sawai Madhopur:
• Wildlife Safari at Ranthambore National Park: Enjoy a thrilling wildlife safari, where you can spot tigers, leopards, sambar deer, wild boar, chinkara and a variety of birds.
• Visit the Ranthambore Fort: Explore the ruins of the ancient fort, located within the Ranthambore National Park.
• Explore the Padam Talab and Raj Bagh Talab: Spend some peaceful time near the two beautiful lakes in the city.
• Tour the Jogi Mahal: Visit this palace, located inside the Ranthambore National Park, for a scenic view of the lake and the wildlife.
• Visit the Sawai Madhopur Temple: Explore the beautiful temple complex, which is believed to have been built in the 11th century.
• Go shopping in the markets of Sawai Madhopur: Pick up souvenirs, like traditional Rajasthani handicrafts and jewelry, from the local markets.
• Enjoy a Ride in the Toy Train: Enjoy a fun ride on the toy train, which passes through the Sawai Madhopur jungle and offers stunning views.
3. Best Places To Stay in Sawai Madhopur:
• Luxury Places: WelcomHotel Ranthambore, The Oberoi Vanyavilas, The Tiger Den Resort
• Mid Range: Ranthambore Forest Resort, The Den Courtyard, Treehouse Ranthambore
• Budget Friendly: Ranthambore Regency, Hotel Palace, Hotel Shreeram
4. How to Travel to Sawai Madhopur?:
The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, located at a distance of about 160 km from Sawai Madhopur. The closest railway station is Sawai Madhopur Junction, located within the city. There are regular buses from Jaipur, Udaipur, Bharatpur, and other cities to Sawai Madhopur. A taxi or private car can also be hired from the airport or railway station to reach the city.
5. Must Try Local Food and Drink in Sawai Madhopur:
• Dal Baati Churma: A traditional Rajasthani dish made with roasted wheat balls, served with spicy lentils and churma (a sweet dish made with jaggery and ghee).
• Kachoris: Deep-fried bread stuffed with a spicy filling, served with chutneys.
• Gujia: A sweet dish made with flour and filled with a mixture of suji, khoya, nuts, raisins, and other dry fruits.
• Kulfi: A traditional Indian ice cream made with condensed milk, flavored with saffron, cardamom, and other spices.
• Mawa Kachori: A traditional Rajasthani dish made with a spicy stuffing of mawa (milk solids) and dried fruits, deep-fried in oil.
• Ghevar: A traditional Rajasthani dish made of sugar syrup and flour, deep-fried in ghee and served with malai (clotted cream).
• Gajar Ka Halwa: A traditional dessert made with grated carrots, cooked in ghee and flavored with cardamom and dry fruits.
6. Best Places to Eat in Sawai Madhopur:
• The Tiger Den Restaurant: Try their delicious Kebabs and Tandoori dishes.
• Ranthambore Café: Enjoy a variety of Indian and continental dishes.
• Churma Bhandar: Try their traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
• The Oberoi Vanyavilas Restaurant: Enjoy a fine dining experience with their global menu.
• Padam Talab Restaurant: Enjoy delicious Chinese and Indian dishes.
7. Weather and Climate:
The weather in Sawai Madhopur is generally hot and humid throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 40°C. The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The months from April to September should be avoided due to the extreme heat.
8. Local Customs and Etiquette in Sawai Madhopur:
The local people are very friendly and welcoming. It is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites. Tipping is not mandatory, but appreciated. Always take permission before taking pictures of locals.
9. Popular Scams in Sawai Madhopur:
Be aware of touts offering transport services and overcharging, fake guides offering their services, and vendors selling fake souvenirs. Also, beware of pickpockets and keep your valuables safe.
10. Suggested Trip Duration:
It is recommended to spend at least 3 to 4 days in Sawai Madhopur.
11. Total Estimated Budget Per Person:
Stay: INR 1000 – INR 3000 per night
Food: INR 300 – INR 500 per day
Activities: INR 500 – INR 1000 per activity
Tickets: INR 500 – INR 2000 per ticket
12. NearBy Cities:
Jaipur (160 km), Udaipur (300 km), Bharatpur (150 km), Jodhpur (228 km), Ajmer (203 km)
13. Local Language and Communication in Sawai Madhopur:
The official language is Hindi, but English is also widely spoken. English-speaking guides are available at most tourist sites and can be hired for a fee.
14. Accepted Currency and Money:
The Indian Rupee is the official currency. Major credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants. Tipping is not mandatory, but appreciated.
15. Health and Medical Information:
It is recommended to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies before travelling to Sawai Madhopur. Medical facilities are available in the city and there are several hospitals and pharmacies.
16. Packing Tips for Sawai Madhopur:
• Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect from the sun.
• Carry a light jacket or a shawl for cooler evenings.
• Make sure to pack a mosquito repellent to protect from mosquito-borne diseases.
17. To sum up:
Sawai Madhopur is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts, with its popular tiger safaris, Ranthambore Fort, Padam Talab and Raj Bagh Talab, Sawai Madhopur Temple, markets and the Toy Train. Enjoy a variety of traditional Rajasthani dishes and explore the rich culture and art of the city.