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Prices & timings for November 2026

Best Time to Visit Ranthambore – Is Ranthambore Open Now? (2026)

When Ranthambore is open, when core zones close for the monsoon, weekly closed days, and the best months for tiger sightings, weather and photography.

Bengal tiger in Ranthambore National ParkTigress with cubs in RanthamboreTiger beside a safari jeep in RanthamboreTwo tigers in Ranthambore National ParkTiger walking through Ranthambore forest

Quick answer

Ranthambore is open from 1 October to 30 June, when all 10 zones run safaris. Core zones 1–5 close for the monsoon from 1 July to 30 September; buffer zones may still run. Open: all zones running. For tiger sightings, March to June is best (hot, and tigers come to water); November to February is the most pleasant, with cold early mornings.

Today
Open: all zones running
Season
1 Oct – 30 Jun
Monsoon
Core closed 1 Jul – 30 Sep
Best for tigers
March – June
Most pleasant
November – February
Weekly closure
Zones 1–5 Wed · 6–10 Tue confirm

Ranthambore is a dry deciduous forest, so the seasons change everything — from how green and thick the jungle is to how often tigers come out into the open. Here is what to expect month by month.

Safari timings through the year

Safaris start earlier and finish later as the days get longer.

MonthsMorning safariAfternoon safari
October6:30 – 10:00 AM2:30 – 6:00 PM
November – January7:00 – 10:30 AM2:00 – 5:30 PM
February – March6:30 – 10:00 AM2:30 – 6:00 PM
April – May6:00 – 9:30 AM3:00 – 6:30 PM
June6:00 – 9:30 AM3:30 – 7:00 PM
July – September (buffer zones only)≈ 6:30 – 10:30 AM≈ 2:00 – 6:00 PM

Is Ranthambore open now?

Open: all zones running. Season 1 October 2026 – 30 June 2027. Core zones 1–5 close for the monsoon from 1 July.

PeriodCore zones 1–5Buffer zones 6–10
1 October – 30 JuneOpenOpen
1 July – 30 September (monsoon)ClosedMay run, depending on rain
WeeklyClosed on Wednesdays*Closed on Tuesdays*
  • *Zones 1–5 close on Wednesdays and zones 6–10 on Tuesdays (as reported; confirm before you book). The Forest Department can also close zones for special reasons.

Ranthambore month by month

MonthsWeatherJungleTiger sightings
OctoberWarm days, pleasant eveningsGreen and thick after the rainsFair — tigers are spread out
November – FebruaryCool days, cold mornings (can be ~5–10°C)Green to golden; misty morningsGood — tigers bask in the sun
March – AprilWarm to hotLeaves fall, open viewsVery good — tigers near water
May – JuneVery hot (often 40°C+)Dry and openBest — tigers stay near lakes
July – SeptemberMonsoon rain, humidLush greenCore closed; buffer only

Visitor guide & tips

What to pack by season

  • Winter (Nov–Feb)

    Warm jacket, beanie, gloves and a blanket for the open jeep — mornings are cold.

  • Summer (Apr–Jun)

    Light cotton in neutral colours, hat, sunscreen and plenty of water.

  • All year

    Khaki, olive or beige clothes; avoid bright colours and white.

  • Gear

    Binoculars and a zoom lens; a scarf or mask for the dust.

  • Holidays

    Christmas, New Year and Indian holidays are busiest — book safaris early.

  • More safaris

    In any season, 3–4 safaris give you the best chance.

More Ranthambore guides

Plan your Ranthambore dates with us

All packages

Tell us when you travel — we suggest the best safari plan for that season and book permits early.

Ranthambore Season — frequently asked questions

Is Ranthambore open now?

Open: all zones running. Season 1 October 2026 – 30 June 2027. Core zones 1–5 close for the monsoon from 1 July.

When does Ranthambore National Park open and close?

All zones are open from 1 October to 30 June. Core zones 1–5 close for the monsoon from 1 July to 30 September; buffer zones 6–10 may run, depending on rain.

What is the best time to visit Ranthambore to see tigers?

March to June gives the best sighting chances, as the forest thins out and tigers stay near the lakes and waterholes. It is hot, so morning safaris are best.

Is Ranthambore good in winter?

Yes. November to February is the most pleasant time, with cool days and good sightings as tigers bask in the sun — but early-morning drives in an open jeep are cold, so dress warmly.

Is Ranthambore open in October?

Yes. The park reopens on 1 October each year. The jungle is green and thick after the rains, so sightings can be harder than later in the season, but it is beautiful and less crowded.

Is Ranthambore open during the monsoon?

Core zones 1–5 are closed from 1 July to 30 September. Buffer zones 6–10 may run safaris depending on rain and Forest Department orders.

Is Ranthambore closed on Wednesday?

Zones 1–5 close on Wednesdays and zones 6–10 on Tuesdays (as reported; confirm before you book).

Which month is the hottest in Ranthambore?

May and June are the hottest, often above 40°C in the afternoon. Safaris then start around 6:00 AM and finish around 7:00 PM.

When is Ranthambore most crowded?

Christmas to New Year, Diwali and other Indian holidays and long weekends. Book safaris well ahead for these dates.

How many days should I spend in Ranthambore?

Two nights with 3–4 safaris is ideal. One night with two safaris works if you are short on time.

Sources for this page

Ticket prices and timings shown for November 2026, based on the latest notifications from the official authorities below. Authorities can change rates and hours at short notice (for example on public holidays or during VIP visits) — please re-check close to your visit. US$ amounts are approximate (₹94 ≈ US$1).

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