Padam Talao & Jogi Mahal, Ranthambore National Park - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 500 m from Ranthambore Fort, and 5 km from Ranthambore National Park Entry Gate, the Padam Talao is a large and beautiful lake situated inside Ranthambore National Park. It gets its name from the lotus flowers that bloom in the lake.

The Padam Talao is a favorite watering hole of the animals of Ranthambore. Tigers, Leopards, Deer, Monkeys and Peacocks can be seen drinking at the lakes edge during the early morning and late evening. Machans or huts on observation posts near the Padam Talao are an excellent platform from where visitors can see the animals in their natural habitat. Genghis, one of the legendary tigers of Ranthambore was famous for hunting deer that came to the lakeside to drink.

The hunting lodge called Jogi Mahal is situated on the banks of the Padam Talao. The view from the Jogi Mahal is a splendid one. Jogi Mahal was built by the royal families of Jaipur and served as a hunting abode to various generations of Jaipur Maharajas. After the decline of ruling authorities of Jaipur, this Mahal is turned into a guest house which offers comfortable stay to tourists during their visit to Ranthambore.

Visitors can also visit banyan tree, which is considered as the second largest banyan tree in India. The lake provides beautiful views of wildlife for photography and shootings.

Timings: 6 AM - 5 PM