Sariska Tiger Reserve

The Sariska Tiger Reserve is one of the best places to spot a tiger in India. Located in the Alwar District of Rajasthan, this area was earlier a hunting reserve frequented by royalty but was opened to the public in 1958 when it was declared to be a protected Wildlife Sanctuary. In 1978, it was given the status of a Tiger Reserve as part of Project Tiger and then made a National Park in 1982.

The Sariska Reserve covers a massive area of 881 square kilometers and has a rich biodiversity consisting of deciduous forests, dry grasslands, thick shrubbery and rocky green patches. Due to the varied landscape and geography of the area, a number of tigers and other interesting creatures live here which are fascinating to observe and fun to spot.

Things to do in Sariska

It is fairly easy to visit the Sariska Tier Reserve as it only 100 Kms from Jaipur and 200 Kms from Delhi. One can easily drive down to Alwar for the weekend or for an extended trip, as there are a lot of things to do here. Here are a few of the most important activities and tourist attractions in this natural wonderland:

Jungle Safari: The main reason people come to Sariska is to go on a jungle safari inside the Tiger Reserve. Even if one doesn’t spot a tiger, it is a great place to spend time in an unspoiled natural forest. Besides tigers, this area is also home to other interesting species of wildlife such as the Indian Leopard, Striped Hyena, Golden Jackal, Wild Boar, Nilgai, Honey Badger, Sambar Deer, Monkeys etc.

Besides animals, the sanctuary is also home to a number of beautiful and rare species of birds such as Grey Partridge, White-Throated Kingfisher, Woodpeckers, Eagles, Owls, etc. Many birdwatchers also come here to observe rare birds and to take photographs of birds in their natural habitat.

Hot Air Ballooning: If you are a thrill seeker or an adventure sports fan, you can try Hot Air Ballooning in Sariska. A small basket is attached to a big balloon and then hot air is pumped in to make it airborne and to maneuver it. From heights of over 800 feet, guests can get a birds eye view of the lush forests and interesting topography of the area.

Kankwari Fort: Located deep inside the Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, this is an ancient fort that has an impressive and interesting architecture. This fort was used by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb to imprison his brother and was also the site for many battles and sieges. Today, one can explore the surrounding areas and discover the secrets of this ancient fort.

Neelkanth Temple: One of the oldest structures in this area, the Neelkanth Temple is an impressive sight to behold because of its evolved architecture and intricate carvings. The complex houses over 300 different temples that date back to the 6^thCentury A.D., which makes it a haven for archaeologists and interested tourists alike. If you like old temples, you will love this place.

Talvriksha: Located near Narayanpur in Alwar, Talvriksha is about 10 Kms from Sariska. It is a natural hot water spring whose waters are said to have miraculous healing powers. A bath here is said to cure many ailments like skin diseases, blood pressure, arthritis etc. and nearby, there is a temple and a holy tree called Talvriksha.

Where to stay

If you are travelling to Sariska and are not sure where to stay, look no further. The one of the best hotels in Alwar is Dadhikar Fort. This is an authentic Fort that was built more than 1100 years ago and is surrounded by the beautiful Aravalli Hills. Today this fort is a heritage property that has a hotel inside it where guests can stay.

With all modern amenities and luxuries, staying at the Dadhikar Fort is the perfect combination of authentic ancient architecture blended with contemporary creature comforts. Staying here is truly a sublime and enriching experience because it allows guests to enjoy the magnificent architecture of the fort and learn more abut the illustrious history of the place without any of the hard work and discomfort that comes with it.

When staying at the Dadhikar Fort, guests can also explore many tourist attractions and activities in the vicinity. From here, it is easy to visit the Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary and other forests. There are also some very interesting ancient cave painting that are said to be over 7 thousand years old within a 2 Kms of the fort.

The best part about staying at Dadhikar is their food. Exquisitely prepared Rajasthani dishes are given a royal touch and served in an immaculate environment for an unforgettable fine dining experience. The stunning views from the rooftop restaurant and the sounds of local folk music accentuate the flavors of your meal and make this a must visit place for any serious traveller.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sariska Tiger Reserve

• What is Sariska Tiger Reserve, and why is it famous?
  Sariska Tiger Reserve is a renowned wildlife sanctuary in Rajasthan, known for its tiger population and rich biodiversity. It offers a unique opportunity to witness tigers in their natural habitat.
• Where is Sariska Tiger Reserve located?
  The reserve is located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, approximately 40 km from Fort Dadhikar.
• What are the timings for visiting Sariska Tiger Reserve?
  The reserve is open for safaris twice daily:
  • Morning Safari: 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM
  • Evening Safari: 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM
    (Timings may vary seasonally.)
• How can I book a safari at Sariska?
  Safari bookings can be made online through the Rajasthan Forest Department’s official website or at the park’s entry gate. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• What types of safaris are available at Sariska?
  Visitors can choose between Jeep Safaris (for smaller groups) and Canter Safaris (ideal for larger groups).
• What wildlife can I expect to see at Sariska?
  Sariska is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, Indian jackals, sambar deer, nilgai, wild boars, and a variety of bird species.
• When is the best time to visit Sariska Tiger Reserve?
  The best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are frequent.
• Is Sariska Tiger Reserve open year-round?
  The reserve is closed during the monsoon season (July to September) for wildlife breeding and forest rejuvenation.
• What should I wear during the safari?
  Wear comfortable, neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the environment. Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for daytime safaris.
• Are there any safety guidelines for visiting Sariska?
  Yes. Always follow your guide’s instructions, maintain silence, and avoid feeding or disturbing the wildlife. Flash photography is prohibited.
• Can I spot tigers easily at Sariska?
  While tiger sightings are not guaranteed, Sariska’s growing tiger population increases your chances, particularly during early mornings and late evenings.
• Are there accommodations near Sariska Tiger Reserve?
  Yes. Fort Dadhikar, a heritage hotel, is a short drive from the reserve and offers a luxurious retreat for nature and history enthusiasts.
• What other attractions can I explore near Sariska?
  Nearby attractions include the Pandupol Hanuman Temple, Kankwari Fort, and the stunning Siliserh Lake.
• Can I visit Sariska with children?
  Yes, Sariska is family-friendly. Children above the age of 5 usually enjoy the safari experience. However, parents should ensure kids follow the park’s rules.
• What is the entry fee for Sariska Tiger Reserve?
  Entry fees vary for Indian and foreign nationals. Additionally, charges apply for vehicles, cameras, and guides. Check the official website for updated pricing.