The rustic embrace of forests in the Aravali Ranges
The Sariska Tiger Reserve is located around 35 km away from the Alwar district in Rajasthan and is peacefully settled in the Aravalli hills. This rustic Indian national park is known for craggy canyons and semi-deciduous trees. Spread over 866 sq. km, the national park is also known for remnants of old forts along with lakes and hot and cold springs. It was declared a wildlife reserve in 1955, and in 1978 it was officially designated as the Sariska Tiger Reserve. Its close proximity to both Jaipur and Delhi attracts several visitors throughout the year.
History reveals that the Sariska Tiger Reserve was initially used as a hunting ground for the Royal Family of Alwar in Rajasthan. Over the years, Sariska—larger than the Ranthambore National Park—has remained less commercialised.
Following are the main tourist attractions of the Sariska Tiger Reserve
Flora: The deciduous forest forming the flora of Sariska Tiger Reserve is one of the significant forest patches present in the Aravalli Hills. The most common trees found in Sariska are Salar, Gol, Ber, Kadaya, Dhok tree, Bamboo and Gugal trees. The forest type of Sariska is dry and deciduous due to the climate. Several shrubs are also found in Sariska, such as Jhar Ber, Adusta and Kair. The main vegetation includes Tendu, Kadam, Gum Karaya and Salar. During the monsoon season, the vegetation of Sariska remains lush green and captivating.
Fauna: A few Bengal tigers can still be found in this relatively less commercialised Sariska Tiger Reserve. One can spot several carnivores in the reserve, such as Tiger, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Wild Dog and Leopard. Rhesus Monkeys are a speciality of this tiger reserve. Foxes, Four-Horned Deer, Hares, Sambar Deer, Indian Langur and Golden Jackal can also be found here. Several bird species are present in the Sariska Tiger Reserve, such as the Grey Partridge, Tree Pie, Peafowl, Great Indian Horned Owl and Sand Grouse.
Excursions from Sariska Tiger Reserve
There are several religious places and forts near the Sariska Tiger Reserve. The Kankwadi Fort, built by Jai Singh II, is one of the exquisitely designed forts. One can also visit the ruins of the Temples of Naldeshwar and the Temple of Neelkanth near the Sariska Tiger Reserve. There are a few important temples around the reserve, such as the Hanuman Temple and Bhartrihari Temple.
One can also visit Lake Siliserh, which is approximately 30 km away from Sariska. It is beautiful during sunrise, and boating facilities are also available. Tourists can also visit the pre-historic Bhangarh town, located near the edge of the Sariska Tiger Reserve. This town is known for its old palaces and mosques.
When to Reach
The best time to visit the Sariska Tiger Reserve is between October and June. The park remains closed to visitors during the monsoon season.
How to Reach
Air: The nearest airport to Sariska Tiger Reserve is the Jaipur Sanganer Airport, which is approximately 110 km away from Sariska. Jaipur Airport connects to major destinations.
Rail: The nearest railway station to the tiger reserve is Alwar Railway Station, located about 36 km away.
Road: This tiger reserve is located en route the Delhi–Alwar–Jaipur route. Alwar is also fondly known as the Tiger Gate of Rajasthan.
