Padam Talao is the largest man-made lake in Ranthambore National Park. With its peaceful setting and scenic environment, it’s the perfect destination for tourists who would love to spend their time alone in the lap of nature. The name is given after the lotus that grows here, so Padam, and a sight in itself, especially during monsoons when it fills with water and the greenery around flourishes. If you are a photographer or love to see nature, early morning or late afternoon is the best time for you. It is a perfect spot for capturing beautiful landscapes and rich wildlife. This lake is always on the radar of most bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts since it is frequently visited by many birds, including the majestic Bengal tigers who can be seen along the river banks.
Location & Biodiversity Of Padam Talao
Image Credit: A. J. T. Johnsingh, WWF-India and NCF for Wikimedia Commons
Padam Talao is situated right in the heart of Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan. This lake is surrounded by diversified flora, with dense forests and a good amount of plants. A blooming cover of water lilies and lotuses on its surface enhances the scenery. The fauna, too, is found in plenty around Padam Talao, where the tourist is sure to catch a glimpse of tigers, leopards, deer and crocodiles. Furthermore, it is a haven for bird watchers to view the various varieties of birds such as kingfishers, herons, storks, etc. You will be amazed to see a large number of wildlife animals here and you won’t feel like leaving this place once you are here.
Must Read: Things To Do In Ranthambore
Tourist Attractions Near Padam Talao
While this lake is beautiful, it is also surrounded by many tourist attractions. Here is a list of places that you can visit when in Padam Talao:
1. Khandar Fort
Image Credit: [kamlesh kumar mali for Wikimedia Commons
Khandar Fort, though relatively less known, is a historic spot that offers quite a rare blend of history, adventure and scenic beauty. Tourists can view the countryside from the top of the hill on which the fort stands, narrating rich historical heritage through its centuries-long past. Built by the Sisodia Rajputs, Khandar Fort has witnessed several battles and changing rulers throughout history. The journey to Khandar Fort happens to be very eventful for tourists, with a beautiful drive through rural Rajasthan where you get to see villages. Famous among them, each in their own right, are the Jain Temple, Rani Temple, and Chaturbhuja Temple – unique in their ways and saying much about the skill and expertise of the architectural activities of that time.
Location: Located about 55 km from Ranthambore National Park
Timing: From 6 AM to 7 PM
2. Ranthambore Fort & The National Park
Image Credit: RahulDogra264 for Wikimedia Commons
Ranthambore Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, of historical significance dating back to the 10th century and located inside the national park. It contains ancient architecture and temples that one can visit, topping it with views of the surroundings from top vantage viewpoints. Ranthambore National Park is one of India’s most known wildlife reserves in the Sawai Madhopur district, Rajasthan. Tourists are attracted towards open grasslands, lakes and ancient ruins of the Ranthambore Fort. Besides tigers, this place is also home to leopards, sloth bears, hyenas and a variety of deer. Several species of birds present here provide much solace to the bird viewers, increasing the biodiversity in the park.
Time: 6 AM to 6 PM
Ticket Price: Entry is free but jeep safaris will cost you extra
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3. Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History
Image Credit: Gopalsinghal7 for Wikipedia Commons
The Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History displays informative exhibits on natural history, flora and fauna. This will help in gaining a feel for the biodiversity of Ranthambore. This popular museum is well-known for Project Tiger in Ranthambore. It is the fourth of its kind in India. The prominent galleries inside the museum will draw your attention as they highlight the wildlife inside the forest. You must visit this place if you travel with your family and children.
Location: Located about 8 km from Ranthambore National Park
Timing: From 6 AM to 7 PM
4. Jogi Mahal
Image Credit: Koshy Koshy for Wikimedia Commons
Next to Padam Talao, there is a great view of the lake from the Jogi Mahal. It became famous because of its big banyan tree, one of India’s largest. The place is a perfect retreat and offers visitors superb bird-watching and photography opportunities. It is a pretty rest house within the national park itself, situated beside the Padam Talao – one of the largest lakes inside the park. The area around Mahal has a big banyan tree, considered the largest in India. The lake view lets you see wildlife otherwise rare anywhere else in the park.
Location: Located about 400 metres from Ranthambore National Park
Timing: From 6 AM to 7 PM
Suggested Read: Hotels In Ranthambore
How To Reach
Image Credit: Sranjanm2002 for Wikimedia Commons
Padam Talao enjoys great connectivity no matter where you are. Here is how you can reach Padam Talao:
By road: Padam Talao is easily accessible. The nearest town is Sawai Madhopur, which is well-connected by rail and road with cities like Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai. Bus, Train, Taxis, and local transport are also available. Jeep safari trips are the best way to move around Padam Talao inside the park, as there are guides who provide information regarding the various species available there.
By rail: Sawai Madhopur Railway Station is nearly 11 km from the park’s entrance. From the railway station, one can hire taxis or local transport to reach Ranthambore National Park.
By air: The nearest airport is the Jaipur International Airport, 180 km from the Park.
Further Read: Amber Fort Jaipur
Padam Talao in Ranthambore is one of those places which nature and wildlife lovers would love to visit. This place cannot be missed if you are visiting Ranthambore National Park, as it draws many tourists due to its rich wildlife and dense forest surroundings. The peaceful environment, diversified flora and fauna, and proximity to other important tourist destinations make this place an ideal getaway for one and all. Whether one is a photographer, bird watcher, or a sole traveller searching for the best experience, Padam Talao will not disappoint anyone here. If you are also searching for the serene beauty of the river, you are at the right place to book your trip to Ranthambore now!
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Cover Image Credit: Kushal Kingshuk for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Padam Talao
What is the best time to visit Padam Talao?
The suitable time to visit is considered in winter. The months from November to March are the best time to visit Padam Talao as the weather will be pleasant and the chances of spotting wildlife, especially tigers will be high for tourists.
Do I need to pay any entry fee to visit Padam Talao?
No, you do not need to pay any extra fee for visiting Padam Talao. Its access is included in your basic entry fee to Ranthambore National Park. However, if you take jeep safaris, it will cost you.
Can I go boating in Padam Talao?
Boating is not allowed in Padam Talao for your safety and that of the wildlife, too. However, you can take a view from the shores and enjoy the scenic beauty and wildlife.
Are there accommodations near Padam Talao?
There are plenty of options for tourists. While the Padam Talao area does not have any accommodation facilities, Sawai Madhopur and the surrounding area have a few fairly luxurious resorts and some budget hotels.
Is Padam Talao open during the entire year?
Yes, Padam Talao remains open throughout the year, but it looks the most colourful during the monsoon and winter seasons, basically when the water level is high and its surroundings are green.
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