We travelled to Ranthambhore in the last week of April. And let me answer the big question first - Yes!! We sighted the tiger. Not only once but twice, in two safari trips to the park!!
How to travel to Ranthambhore:
We drove from Delhi to Ranthambhore. Road is decent and not much problem driving, though a bit bumpy and rough at certain places.
Another good option is to take a train to Sawai Madhopur.
How to travel within the park:
-There are only two times during the day you can enter the park: 6:30 - 10:30 in the morning 2:30 - 6:30 in the evening (timings vary by about an hour in winter months - check with the Tourism center by the Sawai Madhopur station).
You can take a jeep (5/6 seater) if plan in advance (jeeps get booked 2 months in advance) - If you plan suddenly you can get canters (12/20 seaters) - that is what we travelled in.
Do not be disappointed if you get canters. Canters though slightly noisier than the jeep are infact not too bad to travel. Strangely the animals (including the tigers) have become perhaps pretty used to them, and does not get intimidated.
You are not allowed to take your own vehicle within the park.
When to travel:
The winter months are comfortable for the people.
But to sight animals, especially the tigers April - June are more preferable months as tigers more often come out for a drink.
What animals/birds to expect in the forest:
Tigers (obviously, thats what why you go :-) ), langurs, deers, sambhars, nilgais, peacocks, jackals, lot of birds. Where to stay:
There are lot of hotels (from budget to heritage and theme hotels) in Sawai Madhopur.
Must do: