Ranthambore National Park Timings & Closing Days 2026: Plan Your Visit

Before you book, you need to know when Ranthambore National Park is open, which days each zone is closed and what time your safari starts. This guide puts the key facts in one place, so your trip runs smoothly from day one.

Quick answer

• Main season: 1 October to 30 June. Core zones close for the monsoon.
• Closing days: zones 01 to 05 are closed on Wednesdays, and zones 06 to 10 on Tuesdays.
• Shifts: morning and afternoon, each about 3 hours. Exact times change with the season and are set by the Forest Department.

Safari season: when can you go?

The main safari season runs from 1 October to 30 June, and the core zones close for the monsoon. Check the current season dates before you plan. Our best time to visit Ranthambore guide explains weather and sighting patterns, so you can choose the right month for your trip.

Closing days by zone

If you want a specific zone, check its closing day first. Our best zone guide compares all ten routes, and the zones 6 to 10 guide covers the outer routes in detail.

Morning and afternoon safari shifts

Safaris run in two shifts, morning and afternoon. Each shift lasts about 3 hours. Morning drives are usually the best time for active wildlife and cooler air, while afternoon drives give softer light for photography. Your booking confirmation shows the shift and timing for your slot.

Exact timings are not fixed all year. The Forest Department announces changes, and we share any update with your confirmation. To pick the right vehicle for your shift, see our Jeep vs Canter guide.

Before your safari day

1. Confirm your zone and the closing day for that zone.
2. Check the timing on your confirmation and plan to reach the gate at least 30 minutes early.
3. Read the booking guide for ID rules and quota details.
4. Pack for the weather. Our safari packing checklist lists the essentials.
5. Look at the jungle safari bucket list to decide what to watch for on your drive.

What to carry to the gate

• The valid photo ID used for your booking
• Your booking confirmation
• A copy of the ID for each guest
• Passport for foreign nationals

Names and ID details must match the booking exactly. Read our terms and conditions for the full policy.

Plan your full visit

Timings are only one part of the trip. Read about the park in Ranthambore National Park, meet the famous tigers and see the Ranthambore Fort and Trinetra Ganesh Temple. For travel to the park, check how to reach Ranthambore National Park. Then plan where to stay with our hotel guide.

Book with the Wildaddis team

Tell us your travel dates, zone preference and vehicle type. We will check availability and confirm your seats. Browse our Ranthambore safari packages to compare options, or contact us if you have questions about timings. You can also see past safaris in our gallery.

Outside the main season

If your trip falls outside the main season (1 October to 30 June), safaris may not be available in the core zones. Check the latest announcements before you book, or ask our team for the current position. Our booking guide explains how advance, Tatkal and Premium windows work.

How timings shape your day

Choose the shift that suits your plans. Morning safaris start early, so plan your sleep and breakfast around them. If you are staying at a hotel, ask about early breakfast and pickup. Our hotel guide lists partner stays. For a fuller day-by-day plan, see our tiger safari experiences in India article, which compares Ranthambore with other parks.

Frequently asked questions