Padam Talao (Malik Talao) Ranthambore
A vast, serene lake in Ranthambore, famed for its vibrant lotuses and as a crucial watering hole for diverse wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Cooler temps, active wildlife
Padam Talao (Malik Talao) Ranthambore
Best Time
Cooler temps, active wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, serene lake in Ranthambore, famed for its vibrant lotuses and as a crucial watering hole for diverse wildlife.
"Serene and picturesque, Padam Talao offers stunning views and a chance to see wildlife at this vital watering hole."
🎯 Patience for Tiger Sightings
Tiger sightings at Padam Talao are rare; focus on the serene beauty and other wildlife.
📸 Best for Nature Photography
The lake offers stunning photogenic views, especially with the lotuses and surrounding landscape.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Padam Talao Lotus Blooms
Ranthambore National Park, Zone 3
Vast lake adorned with vibrant lotuses and lilies, creating a serene and picturesque natural spectacle.
Jogi Mahal Hunting Adobe
Adjacent to Padam Talao
Historic hunting lodge offering a glimpse into the past, set against the stunning backdrop of the lake.
Tiger & Wildlife Spotting
Around Padam Talao
A crucial watering hole for diverse wildlife, including deer, crocodiles, and the elusive Ranthambore tigers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Wildlife
Zone Access and Tiger Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎯 Patience for Tiger Sightings
Tiger sightings at Padam Talao are rare; focus on the serene beauty and other wildlife.
📸 Best for Nature Photography
The lake offers stunning photogenic views, especially with the lotuses and surrounding landscape.
💧 Wildlife Watering Hole
Animals like deer and crocodiles frequent the lake, making it a good spot for general wildlife viewing.
⏰ Early Bird Gets the View
Morning safaris offer cooler temperatures and better chances for active wildlife sightings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Patience for Tiger Sightings
Tiger sightings at Padam Talao are rare; focus on the serene beauty and other wildlife.
📸 Best for Nature Photography
The lake offers stunning photogenic views, especially with the lotuses and surrounding landscape.
💧 Wildlife Watering Hole
Animals like deer and crocodiles frequent the lake, making it a good spot for general wildlife viewing.
⏰ Early Bird Gets the View
Morning safaris offer cooler temperatures and better chances for active wildlife sightings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Padam Talao is celebrated for its serene beauty, abundant lotuses, and picturesque views, making it a photographer's delight. While tiger sightings are rare, the lake is a vital watering hole for deer and crocodiles, offering consistent wildlife viewing opportunities. The historic Jogi Mahal adds to its charm, though some visitors note the rarity of tiger encounters.
"Padam Talab is one of the most beautiful and largest lakes situated inside Ranthambore National Park, zone3 and 2. The title of this lake is provided because of the beautiful lotuses and lilies. This lake is a hunting adobe, named Jogi Mahal.
Tourists can see genghis tigers, which arrive at this lake for their prey, deer.
The lake provides beautiful views of wildlife for photography and shootings."
Hetal Shah
"The lake is in the middle of Zone#3. One can watch samber deer and spotted dear roaming near the lake for drinking water. Also one can see crocodiles basking in the sun on the bank of the lake. But spotting tiger was very rare."
Santanu Bahali
"Very serene and picturesque. Might get lucky & catch a glimpse of a tiger, bear or crocodile"
Vani Biswas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Padam Talao is located within Ranthambore National Park, primarily in Zone 3. Access is only possible via a registered safari jeep or canter. You'll need to book a safari tour that covers this zone.
Ranthambore National Park has several safari zones, with Padam Talao being a prominent feature in Zone 3. Other popular zones include 1, 2, 4, and 5, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.
No, independent visits are not allowed. Access to Padam Talao and the surrounding areas of Ranthambore National Park is strictly controlled and requires booking an official safari.
The nearest railway station is Sawai Madhopur (approx. 11 km), and the nearest airport is Jaipur (approx. 180 km). From Sawai Madhopur, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the park entrance and your booked safari point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Safari costs vary depending on the type of vehicle (jeep or canter), zone, and whether you're a resident or foreigner. It's best to check the official Ranthambore National Park website or authorized tour operators for current pricing.
Yes, booking your Ranthambore safari in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred zone and time slot.
Safaris typically operate twice a day: one in the early morning and another in the late afternoon. The exact timings vary seasonally based on sunrise and sunset.
No, there isn't a separate ticket for Padam Talao. Your Ranthambore National Park entry fee and safari permit cover access to all accessible zones, including the area around Padam Talao.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire expanse of Padam Talao offers beautiful photographic opportunities, especially when the lotuses are in bloom. The banks are great for capturing wildlife coming to drink.
While tigers do visit Padam Talao, sightings are rare. If you're lucky, you might capture them near the water. Focus on the serene landscape and other animals for consistent photography.
A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-300mm or 100-400mm) is ideal for wildlife photography. A wider lens can be useful for landscape shots of the lake. Bring extra batteries and memory cards!
Generally, photography is allowed, but drone usage is prohibited. Always follow the instructions of your safari guide and respect wildlife by not disturbing them for a photo.
🎫 🐅 Wildlife Viewing
Padam Talao is a vital watering hole for various animals, including sambar deer, spotted deer, crocodiles basking on the banks, and various bird species. Tigers are also known to visit, though sightings are less frequent here.
Tiger sightings at Padam Talao are considered rare compared to other zones. While it's a known territory for some tigers, they may not always be visible during safari hours.
Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the best times as animals are most active, often coming to the lake to drink.
While specific guides aren't tied to Padam Talao, choosing an experienced and reputable safari operator who knows the park well will significantly enhance your chances of wildlife sightings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While tiger sightings are rare, the general wildlife viewing and the scenic beauty of the lake provide ample interest. Ensure you book a safari that includes Zone 3 to visit Padam Talao. Pack snacks and water, and keep children engaged by pointing out different animals and birds. Remember to follow all park rules for a safe and enjoyable family outing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While tigers are elusive here, the chance to photograph them at the watering hole adds an element of thrill. Focus on capturing the broader landscape, the details of the lotuses, and the behavior of deer and crocodiles. A telephoto lens is recommended for wildlife, but a wider lens will be invaluable for the expansive lake views. Be prepared for early morning or late afternoon light for the best shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Serene Beauty of Padam Talao
Surrounding the lake is the historic Jogi Mahal, a former hunting lodge that adds a layer of historical intrigue to the natural beauty. This combination of serene water bodies, vibrant flora, and historical architecture makes Padam Talao a must-visit spot for nature lovers and photographers alike. While it's a beautiful location, it's important to manage expectations regarding tiger sightings, as they are less frequent here compared to other zones.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as tranquil and photogenic. The lake provides excellent opportunities for observing deer, crocodiles basking on the banks, and a rich variety of birdlife. The 'Arrowhead' tigress, a legendary figure in Ranthambore, was known to frequent this area, adding to its allure for wildlife enthusiasts, though sadly, her final days were witnessed here.
Wildlife Encounters at the Watering Hole
While the allure of spotting a tiger at Padam Talao is strong, it's important to note that sightings are less common here than in other prime tiger territories within the park. However, the possibility remains, and the presence of prey animals like deer makes it a potential hunting ground. The lake also attracts a diverse array of bird species, making it a rewarding location for birdwatchers.
For the best chances of wildlife viewing, plan your safari during the early morning or late afternoon. These cooler periods encourage animals to move and seek water. Remember that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and patience is key. The overall experience of being in this natural setting, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna, is often described as unforgettable, even without a tiger sighting.
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