Nestled in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, Sariska Tiger Reserve is one of India’s most famous wildlife sanctuaries, offering a rich blend of biodiversity, history, and adventure. It holds the distinction of being the world’s first tiger reserve to successfully relocate tigers, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Spanning over 800 square kilometers, the reserve features diverse landscapes, including mountains, grasslands, dry deciduous forests, and rocky cliffs, making it a thrilling destination for nature lovers.
If you’re looking for wildlife safaris, birdwatching, trekking, or exploring ancient temples and forts, Sariska Tiger Reserve has something for everyone.
Key Facts About Sariska Tiger Reserve
📍 Location: Alwar, Rajasthan
📏 Total Area: 881 sq. km (Core Zone: 273.8 sq. km)
🐅 Notable Wildlife: Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Hyenas, Sambar Deer, Wild Boars
🦜 Bird Species: Over 220 species, including peacocks, serpent eagles, and sand grouse
📅 Established as a Wildlife Sanctuary: 1955
🏞 Declared a National Park: 1979
🛣 Distance:
✔ 200 km from Delhi
✔ 107 km from Jaipur
✔ 36 km from Alwar
⏳ Safari Timings:
- Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Evening Safari: 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM
(Closed on Wednesdays)
🚙 Safari Cost: ₹1,100 – ₹2,500 per jeep (for Indian visitors)
Wildlife at Sariska: What Can You Spot?
Sariska is home to an incredible range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, jackals, and over 220 species of birds. The diverse habitat makes it a paradise for wildlife lovers.
🦁 Major Mammals You Can Spot
✔ Bengal Tigers – The star attraction of Sariska! Sariska was the first tiger reserve in the world to successfully relocate tigers after the species was wiped out from the area in the early 2000s. Today, the reserve is home to over 25 tigers.
✔ Leopards – Elusive and stealthy, often spotted in the rocky outcrops.
✔ Striped Hyenas – A rare but exciting sight in Sariska.
✔ Sambar Deer & Chital (Spotted Deer) – Commonly found near water bodies.
✔ Wild Boars & Jungle Cats – Frequently seen along the trails.
🦜 Birdwatching at Sariska
For birdwatchers, Sariska is a dream destination, with over 220 species of birds recorded in the park. Some of the most beautiful birds you can spot include:
✔ Crested Serpent Eagles – A majestic sight soaring above the forest.
✔ Indian Peafowls (Peacocks) – The national bird of India, found in large numbers.
✔ Sandgrouse & Harbor Quails – Seen near grasslands.
🌿 The best time for birdwatching: Winters (November to February), when migratory birds from Europe and Central Asia flock to the region.
Top Things to Do at Sariska Tiger Reserve
1. Jeep Safari: The Best Way to Explore Sariska
🚙 Go on an exciting jeep safari to spot tigers, leopards, and deer in their natural habitat.
✔ Safaris are conducted in open jeeps for the best wildlife viewing experience.
✔ Early morning and late afternoon safaris have the highest chances of tiger sightings.
✔ Entry to Kankwari Fort is possible only through a jeep safari.
2. Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (6th Century Shiva Temple)
🛕 Hidden within the forest, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is an architectural marvel from the 6th century.
✔ Features beautifully carved statues and intricate temple architecture.
✔ Dedicated to Lord Shiva, making it a sacred pilgrimage site.
✔ The temple is a great spot for history buffs and photography lovers.
3. Explore Kankwari Fort: A Mughal-Era Marvel
🏰 Want to mix history with adventure? Visit Kankwari Fort, a 17th-century fort inside the reserve.
✔ This fort was built by Maharaja Jai Singh I and later used by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb to imprison his brother, Dara Shikoh.
✔ Offers stunning panoramic views of the Aravalli hills.
✔ Accessible only via a jeep safari, adding to the thrill of exploration.
4. Pandupol Hanumanji Mandir: A Mythological Wonder
🕉 According to Hindu mythology, Pandupol was where Bhima encountered Lord Hanuman during the Pandavas’ exile.
✔ A beautiful waterfall cascades near the temple, creating a scenic view.
✔ Every Tuesday and Saturday, the temple attracts large crowds of devotees.
✔ One of the oldest Hanuman temples in Rajasthan.
5. Trekking & Nature Walks
🌳 Sariska’s scenic trails and rocky hills make it an excellent destination for trekking and nature walks.
✔ Trek to Somsagar Lake or Siliserh Lake for breathtaking views.
✔ Walk through the dry deciduous forests and spot Sambar deer and peacocks.
✔ Best time for trekking: Winters (November – February).
Best Time to Visit Sariska Tiger Reserve
📅 The best time to visit Sariska is between October and March.
✔ Winter (November – February): Best for safaris, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching.
✔ Summer (April – June): Increased chances of spotting tigers near waterholes but extremely hot.
✔ Monsoon (July – September): The park is lush and green, but wildlife sightings are rare.
How to Reach Sariska Tiger Reserve?
🚗 By Road
✔ From Delhi: 200 km (4-hour drive via NH48)
✔ From Jaipur: 107 km (2.5-hour drive)
✔ From Alwar: 36 km (45-minute drive)
🚆 By Train
✔ Nearest railway station: Alwar Junction (36 km away)
🛫 By Air
✔ Nearest airport: Jaipur International Airport (107 km away)
Nearby Attractions: What Else to Explore?
📌 Siliserh Lake (20 km) – A serene lake where you can enjoy boating and birdwatching.
📌 Bhangarh Fort (28 km) – India’s most haunted fort, a must-visit for history buffs.
📌 Alwar City Palace (36 km) – A blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture with a historic museum.
Why Should You Visit Sariska Tiger Reserve?
✔ For Wildlife Enthusiasts: See tigers, leopards, deer, and over 200 species of birds.
✔ For History Buffs: Explore Kankwari Fort, Neelkanth Temple, and Pandupol Hanuman Mandir.
✔ For Adventure Seekers: Experience jeep safaris, trekking, and nature walks.
✔ For Photographers: Capture stunning landscapes, wildlife, and cultural sites.
Sariska Tiger Reserve is the perfect getaway for wildlife lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Whether you’re looking for thrilling safaris or a peaceful escape in nature, Sariska has it all!
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