Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary

Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary

Spread in an area of 800 sq km with a core area of 498 sq km, Sariska National Park lies in the Aravalli hills and is the former hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Alwar. Sariska itself is a wide valley with two large plateaus. The park was established as a sanctuary in the year 1958 and as a tiger reserve in 1979. In 1982, Sariska was declared a national park. The forests are lush during and immediately following the monsoon, but during the dry months of February May there is a shortage of water and in consequence mammals are attracted to water holes. At this time of year visibility is good because of the sparse foliage.

Sightseeing at Sariska -

The Flora : The forests are mostly dotted with dry deciduous trees of Dhak, Acacia, Ber and Salar.

The Fauna : The park also has good populations of Nilgai, Sambar and Chital. In the evenings, Indian Porcupine, Striped Hyaena, Indian Palm Civet and even Leopard are sometimes seen. The Tigers of Sariska are largely nocturnal and are not as easily seen as those of Ranthambhore. Sariska is excellent for birdwatching and has an unusually large population of Indian Peafowl.

Other Attractions :

Sariska is dotted with places of historical and religious interest, including the ruins of the Kankwari Fort, the 10th century Neelkanth temples, the Budha Hanumab Temple near Pandupol, the Bharthari Temple near the park office, and the hot and cold springs of Taalvriksh. The large Siliserh Lake is at the north-eastern corner. Visiting all of them is worthwhile.

Park Trips : The park is toured by a jeep or a lorry. The tour is accompanied by a guide.

Best Season to Visit : Open through out the year, the best period being November-April, especially March-April.

Reaching Sariska -

Air : The nearest airport is at Jaipur (115 km 3 hours ).
Train : The nearest railway station is at Alwar (36 km).
Road : The drive from Delhi takes 5-6 hours. Sariska is well connected to all the major cities of Rajasthan and India.

Basic Guidelines -

Please enter the Park only after taking the necessary permits and follow all the rules.
Drive slowly in the Park. In this way you can see, observe and enjoy the most, without disturbing the wildlife.
Respect the wild animals and maintain a safe distance from them. Remember, you are in their home and they get first priority.
Switch off your car stereo or transistor. The quieter you are, the more the chances of your seeing wildlife.
Wear dull-coloured clothes. Bright colours alarm most wild animals and they flee.
Don’t carry guns or other weapons. Feel free to shoot with a camera instead.
Do not smoke or light campfires in the forest. Accidental fires can destroy this wonderful jungle in no time.
Don’t get off your vehicle at any point in the Park except where it’s allowed. This is for your own safety and the safety of wildlife.
Help keep the park pollution-free. While inside the park, please put your entire non-biodegradable litter (tin cans, plastic, glass bottles, metal foils etc.) into the bag provided and dispose of it on your way out.
Keep to the specified roads and trails. Driving off track you may trample growing trees and cause disturbance to resting animals and their youngs.