Are you looking for a thrilling and memorable experience in the lap of nature? Do you want to witness the majestic beauty of the Royal Bengal Tigers and other exotic animals and birds? If yes, then Sariska Tiger Reserve is the perfect destination for you. Sariska Tiger Reserve is one of the most visited wildlife sanctuaries in India, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan.
It covers an area of 881 sq. km and is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including the endangered tigers, leopards, hyenas, jackals, deer, monkeys, wild boars and many more. Sariska Tiger Reserve also boasts of a fascinating history and culture, with ancient forts, temples and palaces dotting its landscape.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Sariska Tiger Reserve, from its safari timings and fees to its best time to visit and places to see. Read on to find out why Sariska Tiger Reserve should be on your bucket list.
Safari Timings and Fees
One of the main attractions of Sariska Tiger Reserve is its safari, which allows you to explore the wilderness and spot the wildlife from a close distance. The safari is conducted in two slots, morning and evening, and the timings vary according to the season. The table below shows the safari timings and fees for different vehicles and categories of visitors.
Season Morning Safari Evening Safari Gypsy (6 people) Canter (20 people)
Winter (Nov-Jan) 7:00 AM - 10:30 AM 2:00 PM - 5:30 PM INR 2100 INR 5000
Summer (Apr-Jun) 6:00 AM - 9:30 AM 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM INR 2100 INR 5000
Spring (Feb-Mar) 6:30 AM - 10:00 AM 2:30 PM - 6:00 PM INR 2100 INR 5000
Autumn (Oct) 6:30 AM - 10:00 AM 2:30 PM - 6:00 PM INR 2100 INR 5000
You can choose between a gypsy or a canter for your safari, depending on your preference and availability. A gypsy is a four-wheel drive vehicle that can accommodate up to six people, while a canter is a mini-bus that can accommodate up to 20 people.
Both vehicles are open from all sides and offer a panoramic view of the park. You also need to hire a guide for your safari, who will accompany you throughout the journey and provide you with information and insights about the park and its wildlife.
To book your safari, you need to visit the official website of Rajasthan Wildlife or contact the Forest Reception Office at Sariska. You can also book your safari through authorized travel agents or hotels near the park. The booking process is simple and hassle-free, but you need to book well in advance as the slots are limited and fill up quickly.
The entry and exit points for the safari are at three gates: Tehla Gate, Kalighati Gate and Sariska Gate. You need to reach your respective gate at least half an hour before your safari time and show your booking confirmation and identity proof at the gate.
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Best Time to Visit
Sariska Tiger Reserve is open throughout the year, except for July to September when it is closed due to monsoon. However, the best time to visit Sariska Tiger Reserve depends on your preference and purpose of visit. The park experiences different climatic conditions in different seasons, which affect the wildlife sightings and photography opportunities.
The winter season (November to January) is considered as the ideal time to visit Sariska Tiger Reserve, as the weather is pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 25°C. The park looks lush green and vibrant after the rains, and the animals are more active and visible in the mornings and evenings. The winter season is also the best time for birdwatching, as many migratory birds flock to the park during this time.
The summer season (April to June) is the hottest time to visit Sariska Tiger Reserve, as the weather is dry and scorching, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C. The park looks dry and barren, and the animals are less active and hide in the shade during the day. However, the summer season is also the best time for tiger sighting, as the tigers come out to drink water from the waterholes and lakes in the park. The summer season is also the best time for photography, as the clear skies and bright sunlight offer a great contrast and clarity.
The spring season (February to March) and the autumn season (October) are also good times to visit Sariska Tiger Reserve, as the weather is moderate and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C. The park looks colorful and lively, with flowers blooming and trees shedding their leaves. The animals are also more active and visible during these seasons, and you can spot a variety of wildlife in the park.
If you want to indulge in wildlife photography, you can also book a hide in one of the waterholes in the park, which gives you an amazing opportunity to capture the wildlife from a close distance. A hide is a small hut or shelter that is camouflaged and equipped with basic amenities such as a bed, a toilet and a camera. You can book a hide for a day or a night, depending on your preference and availability. You need to take permission from the Forest Reception Office in advance for booking a hide, and pay a nominal charge for it.
Flora and Fauna
Sariska Tiger Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, as it boasts of a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The park has different types of vegetation and habitats, such as dry deciduous forests, grasslands, rocky hills and cliffs. The dominant tree species in the park is Dhok, which covers more than 90% of the tree canopy. Other tree species include Khair, Ber, Kadaya, Gol, Salar etc.
The park is home to more than 40 species of mammals, 35 species of reptiles, 13 species of amphibians and over 200 species of birds. The main attraction of the park is the Bengal tiger, which is one of the most endangered animals in the world. Sariska Tiger Reserve was the first tiger reserve in India to relocate tigers from another park (Ranthambore) successfully. Currently, there are about 20 tigers in the park, which can be seen roaming around or resting near the water sources.
Other carnivores in the park include leopards, hyenas, jackals, jungle cats, wild dogs etc. These feed on an abundance of herbivores such as sambar deer, chital deer, nilgai antelope, chinkara gazelle, wild boar etc. The park also has many primates such as langurs and rhesus monkeys. Some of the rare or unique animals that can be seen in the park are caracal (a wild cat), four-horned antelope (the only antelope with four horns), Indian eagle-owl (a large owl with ear tufts) etc.
The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, as it hosts many resident and migratory birds. Some of the common birds that can be seen in the park are peafowl, parakeet, woodpecker, owl, eagle, vulture etc. Some of the rare or unique birds that can be seen in the park are sandgrouse (a ground-dwelling bird with long pointed wings), crested serpent-eagle (a raptor with a crest on its head), white-throated kingfisher (a kingfisher with a white throat) etc.
Places to Visit in Sariska
Sariska Tiger Reserve is not only a wildlife sanctuary but also a cultural heritage site, as it has many ancient forts, temples and palaces within its premises or nearby. These monuments reflect the history and culture of Rajasthan and offer a glimpse into its glorious past. Some of the places to visit in Sariska are:
Kankwari Fort:
This is a 17th-century fort located on a hilltop in the middle of the park. It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur as a hunting lodge. It was also used as a prison for Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who was defeated by his brother Aurangzeb in a battle. The fort offers a panoramic view of the park and its surroundings.
Sariska Palace:
This is a grand palace located near the Sariska Gate of the park. It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur as his royal residence during his hunting expeditions. It is now converted into a heritage hotel that offers luxury accommodation and facilities to the visitors. The palace has a beautiful architecture and design, with a blend of Rajasthani and French styles. It also has a museum that displays the royal artifacts and memorabilia of the Maharaja.
Hanuman Temple:
This is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god, located inside the park. It is believed to be more than 1000 years old and is one of the oldest temples in Rajasthan. It is also known as Pandupol Temple, as it is situated near a natural arch called Pandupol, which is said to be created by the Pandavas, the heroes of the epic Mahabharata. The temple attracts many devotees and tourists, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, which are considered auspicious for Lord Hanuman.
Neelkantha Mahadeva Temple:
This is another ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer god, located outside the park. It dates back to the 6th century AD and is one of the oldest temples in Rajasthan. It is also known as Nilkantheshwar Temple, as it houses a blue-colored lingam (a symbol of Lord Shiva) in its sanctum. The temple has a magnificent architecture and sculpture, with intricate carvings and motifs. It also has a natural spring that flows from the hill behind the temple.
Bhartrihari Nath Temple:
This is a medieval temple dedicated to Bhartrihari Nath, a legendary saint and poet, located outside the park. It is believed that Bhartrihari Nath meditated and attained enlightenment in a cave near this temple. The temple has a simple structure and design, with a white dome and a red flag on top. It also has a sacred pond that is said to have healing powers. The temple attracts many pilgrims and tourists, especially during the annual fair held in January.
Naldeshwar Temple:
This is a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located outside the park. It is situated in a secluded spot amidst dense forest and rocky terrain. It is said that Naldeshwar was the name of a sage who worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple. The temple has a black stone lingam in its sanctum and a natural spring that flows from the rocks. The temple offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere to the visitors.
How to Reach Sariska Tiger Reserve from Major Cities of India
Sariska Tiger Reserve is well-connected by various modes of transport such as flight, train, bus and road from major cities of India such as Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai etc. The distance, time and route details for each mode of transport are given below:
Flight: The nearest airport to Sariska Tiger Reserve is Jaipur International Airport, which is about 110 km away from the park. You can take a flight from any major city of India to Jaipur and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sariska. The flight duration varies depending on the city of origin, but it usually takes around 1 to 2 hours.
Train: The nearest railway station to Sariska Tiger Reserve is Alwar Junction, which is about 36 km away from the park. You can take a train from any major city of India to Alwar and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sariska. The train duration varies depending on the city of origin, but it usually takes around 3 to 5 hours.
Bus: There are regular buses available from Jaipur and Alwar to Sariska Tiger Reserve. You can take a bus from any major city of India to Jaipur or Alwar and then take another bus to reach Sariska. The bus duration varies depending on the city of origin, but it usually takes around 4 to 6 hours.
Road: You can also drive your own vehicle or hire a car or bike to reach Sariska Tiger Reserve from any major city of India. The road condition is good and scenic, with smooth highways and winding hills. The road distance varies depending on the city of origin, but it usually takes around 4 to 6 hours.
Some tips or suggestions for choosing the best or cheapest mode of transport depending on your budget, time and convenience are:
If you are looking for the fastest and most comfortable mode of transport, you can opt for flight, as it will save you time and hassle.
If you are looking for the cheapest mode of transport, you can opt for bus, as it will save you money and offer you a chance to interact with locals.
If you are looking for the most adventurous mode of transport, you can opt for road, as it will give you more flexibility and freedom to explore the route and the surroundings.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sariska Tiger Reserve
Here are some of the common or important questions that visitors may have about Sariska Tiger Reserve, along with their answers:
What are the chances of seeing a tiger in Sariska?
The chances of seeing a tiger in Sariska are moderate, as there are about 20 tigers in the park, which is a relatively small number compared to other tiger reserves in India. However, you can increase your chances by visiting the park during the summer season, when the tigers come out to drink water from the waterholes and lakes. You can also book a hide near a waterhole, which will give you a better view of the tigers and other wildlife.
What are the other activities or attractions in Sariska besides safari?
Besides safari, you can also enjoy other activities or attractions in Sariska such as birdwatching, trekking, camping, cycling, photography etc. You can also visit the ancient forts, temples and palaces in or near the park, which will give you a glimpse of the history and culture of Rajasthan. You can also experience the local cuisine, handicrafts and festivals of the region, which will give you a taste of the rural life of Rajasthan.
What are the accommodation options near Sariska?
There are various accommodation options near Sariska, ranging from budget to luxury. You can choose from hotels, resorts, guest houses, homestays, camps etc. depending on your preference and budget. Some of the popular accommodation options near Sariska are:
Sariska Palace: This is a heritage hotel that offers luxury accommodation and facilities to the visitors. It is located near the Sariska Gate of the park and has a beautiful architecture and design. It also has a museum that displays the royal artifacts and memorabilia of the Maharaja of Jaipur.
The Vanaashrya: This is a resort that offers eco-friendly accommodation and facilities to the visitors. It is located about 2 km away from the park and has cottages, tents and tree houses. It also has a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant and a bar.
Fort View Guest House: This is a guest house that offers budget accommodation and facilities to the visitors. It is located on a hilltop near the Kankwari Fort and has rooms with basic amenities. It also has a terrace that offers a panoramic view of the park and its surroundings.
What are the safety measures or precautions to be taken while visiting Sariska?
While visiting Sariska, you need to take some safety measures or precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Some of them are:
- Carry enough water, food, medicines and other essentials for your trip.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that suit the weather and terrain of the park.
- Apply sunscreen, sunglasses and hats to protect yourself from the sun.
- Avoid wearing bright or flashy colors that may attract or disturb the animals.
- Follow the instructions and guidance of your guide and driver during your safari.
- Do not venture out of your vehicle or touch or feed the animals during your safari.
- Do not litter or damage the environment or wildlife of the park.
- Respect the local culture and customs of the region.
What are the best souvenirs or local products to buy from Sariska?
Sariska is not only a wildlife sanctuary but also a cultural hub, as it has many local products and handicrafts that reflect its heritage and tradition. Some of the best souvenirs or local products to buy from Sariska are:
Dhokra Art:
This is an ancient art form that involves making metal figurines using wax casting technique. You can find various dhokra art pieces such as animals, birds, gods etc. in Sariska.
Terracotta Pottery:
This is another traditional art form that involves making clay pots and vessels using hand molding technique. You can find various terracotta pottery items such as lamps, vases, bowls etc. in Sariska.
Rajasthani Quilts:
These are colorful and cozy quilts that are made using cotton fabrics and embroidery. You can find various Rajasthani quilts with different patterns and designs in Sariska.
Rajasthani Spices:
These are aromatic and flavorful spices that are used in Rajasthani cuisine. You can find various Rajasthani spices such as red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder etc. in Sariska.
We hope this article has given you all the information you need to plan your trip to Sariska Tiger Reserve. Sariska Tiger Reserve is a wildlife paradise in Rajasthan that offers you an unforgettable experience of nature, adventure and culture.
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Sariska Tiger Reserve today and get ready for an amazing journey.
