Sariska National Park One of the important wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan, and once in India. Known as Sariska Tiger Reserve, Sariska became a wildlife reserve in 1958. It was included in the Project Tiger of India in 1979 and declared a Tiger Reserve. Occupying a large area of 866 kilometers, Sariska in Alwar district is one of the highly visited wildlife sanctuaries due to its proximity to Delhi and Jaipur.
Surrounded by Aravali Mountains, Sariska is hosts some exquisite wildlife species such as the world famous Bengal Tiger, leopards, golden jackals, hyenas, jungle cats, wild boars and several species of deer and antelope and monkeys. Birds such as peafowl, bush quail, grey partridge, Indian tree pie, sand grouse, golden backed woodpecker, great Indian horned owl and crested serpent eagle are also widely seen. Sariska is also rich in minerals, copper being the prime example. However, mining has been banned here to protect the environment.
Sariska, though not as popular but certainly denser than Ranthambore and most of the other wildlife reserves in Rajasthan, provides the thrilling experience of a forest. Though spotting animals is left mostly to luck, even a feel of this wonderful atmosphere could be fulfilling. Sariska, being low on tigers since several years, has been witnessing a decrease in the number of visitors every year, which has been a blessing in disguise for the nature.
Jungle Safaris are arranged by the forest department through open jeeps accompanied by experienced guides. However, you can also hire a government certified guide and roam the forest through your own vehicle (small four wheelers), a feature unavailable in most of the forests.
There are some good lodges where you can stay during the night. The one run by RTDC is especially good. Bookings need to done advance during the winter season.
It is suggested that en route to Jaipur, you stay at Sariska and go for a safari early morning. You can head to Jaipur, a couple hours away, during the noon.
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Quick Reference
Sariska is one of the important wildlife reserves in India having some exquisite wildlife species. Sariska is also rich in minerals. Sariska was included in Project Tiger of India in 1979. Jungle safaris are arranged by the forest department along with experienced guides in open jeeps. You can also enter the forest in your own vehicle; however, you must be accompanied by an authorized forest guide. Sariska is not as popular as Ranthambore, but denser than Ranthambore. There are some good hotels and resorts here for an enjoyable stay.
Destination Grade: |
B (What is this?) |
Rating: |
8/10 |
Hotels: |
Tiger Den, Sariska Palace Hotel (Heritage Hotel), Sariska Tiger Heaven (Resorts), Gulmohur Sariska Resort, Sariska Palace Hotel. |
Airport: |
Jaipur 110 km |
Railway Station: |
Alwar 36 km |
Nearest Major City(s): |
Alwar |
How to reach: |
Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on the Delhi-Alwar-Jaipur Highway. Delhi and Jaipur are located at a distance of 250 km and 110 km respectively. |
Major Tourist Attraction: |
Sariska National Park |
Speciality(Famous for): |
Sariska Tiger Reserve |
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