National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary Palighat Ranthambhore Sawai Madhopur — Attraction in Rajasthan

This place is around 50km from Ranthambore (around 1.5 hrs thanks to intermittent bad roads on highway). Exactly at Rajasthan-MP border, it is planned as an excursion from Ranthambore. There isn't much to see in Ranthambore other than the jungle safari, so people add this to their list of sight-seeing. The only activity here is a boat ride on the Chambal River for crocodile and alligator sightings. We did get to see both but do not expect a Discovery-NGO type experience. The crocodiles are more clearly seen basking in sun on the river banks. The ones inside river can only be spotted by their protruding eyes or nostrils and will immediately sink in water as soon as they hear your boat nearing. Do not expect them to ever come close to your boat. It is pretty much safe though and no accidents have been reported. They charge around Rs 1000-1200 per boat (bargain as much as you can). There is never a rush here. The taxi will charge you another Rs 2500 from Ranthambore. So do figure out if at Rs 3500-4000, this is your cup of tea. Be assured of crocodile sightings...

Idea of boat ride is excellent but calling it a river cruise was a not a fit with limited sightings of animals 9 to 10 only , poor quality or non cruise boat, no meal or drinks. 3 stars for the River, Idea of commercializations and nice and humble local boatman cum guide. Around 800 rupees person for the boat ride seems too high for the fun. Though I don’t mind contributing towards the upkeep of the place if there is any existing process besides just a ticketing booth to cash the opportunity. Some suggestions Should bring better quality boats. Green boats, either manual or electric as the tourism will grow the diesel and petrol boats will kill the ecosystem around especially the river water. A play place for kids or adults like water slides etc can justify the long drive of hours to just have a simple boat ride. A local cuisine restaurant...

I recently visited in april 2023 during summer and had worst experience because government has not developed this santuary well. There is no facility to sit properly. Also boats are not maintained. My boat stopped in the middle while i was on my way back luckily my boat driver was very helpful person he called boat for rescue and we were transferred to another government boat. Also there is no AC ,no canteen, no facility for travelers. Only one old man was selling waterbottles and mazza. Also they dnt have proper boat drivers. We waited for almost 40mins for our turn. Our driver was very good so we did spot 2 alligators but i dnt recommend going this place to watch crocodile and alligators because it's not worth. Government should develop this place first and atleast they should have canteen where atleast food packets should be available. Do not travel with kids...