Nestled in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, Lakarda and Anantpura are relatively offbeat areas within the more famous region of Ranthambore. Known for their picturesque landscapes and rich wildlife, these areas have become increasingly popular among tourists seeking serene nature and wildlife experiences.
The history of tourism in Lakarda and Anantpura is intricately linked to the history of the Ranthambore National Park. Originally the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur, the park was declared one of the Project Tiger reserves in 1973 and later a national park in 1980. With the establishment of Ranthambore National Park, conservation efforts increased, leading to a rise in the wildlife population – thus piquing the interest of nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
Although not as popular as the main zones of Ranthambore, Lakarda and Anantpura started gaining attention for their high density of sloth bears. The intact and less disturbed habitat provides a perfect abode for these creatures and many other species.
Initially, the flow of tourists to these areas was limited due to the majority of visitors focusing on tiger sightings within the core zones of Ranthambore. However, over the years, as Ranthambore gained global recognition, the spillover effect saw an increase in travelers looking for a more tranquil wildlife experience. Consequently, Lakarda and Anantpura, with their lesser footfall, became noted for offering a more peaceful and intimate encounter with nature.
Recent trends in tourism show a growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly travel practices. Tourists are now more than ever interested in conservation and responsible tourism. This has led to the emergence of eco-lodges and nature camps around Lakarda and Anantpura that prioritize minimizing impact on the environment while providing authentic experiences of the local wildlife and fauna.
Wildlife safaris have been tailored to include educational components about the area’s flora and fauna, contributing to the awareness and understanding of the ecosystem among visitors. Tour operators have also started to introduce walking safaris and nature trails in the buffer zones around Lakarda and Anantpura, which allow for a deeper connection with the natural surroundings in a less invasive manner.
Another trend has been the rise of wildlife photography tours. With the areas' rich diversity of species such as langurs, varieties of birds, and the elusive sloth bears, they provide unique opportunities for wildlife photography enthusiasts.
The future of tourism in Lakarda and Anantpura looks promising, with a balanced approach between enhancing tourist experiences and preserving the pristine nature of the locations. The governments and local communities continue to work together to ensure that tourism development does not hinder the conservation efforts that make this region so special.
Emphasizing on low-impact tourism and providing immersive experiences while maintaining the ecological integrity of the region remains the core of tourism growth strategies. With responsible travel becoming the mainstay, Lakarda and Anantpura are likely to remain treasured destinations for discerning travelers who seek connection with the wild in a respectful manner.
