Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary

Sariska Tiger Reserve lies amidst the Aravali Hills- 800 sq km of grassland, dry deciduous forests, sheer cliffs and rocky landscape interspersed with the ruins of medieval buildings.

The area spans some 800 km of dry deciduous forest and has been known for its tiger and leopard activity. Large herds of Sambhar and Chital are also found here.Just at the edge of this reserve is the Siliserh lake and crocodiles can be seen swimming and basking on the banks. The park has a series of hides and watchtowers and these can be occupied before sunset so as to observe the large varieties of animals that come to the water. Occasionally a tiger or leopard can also be seen.

Due to the presence of monuments of religious importance located within the park boundaries, the park authorities are compelled to keep the park open throughout the year. Unfortunately, the only restrictions they are able to impose during this "off-season" period are those on entry into the jungle routes. The main road is kept open all year round..
Major Wildlife Attractions
The Sariska park is home to numerous carnivores including Leopard, Wild Dog, Jungle Cat, Hyena, Jackal, and Tiger. These feed on an abundance of prey species such as Sambhar, Chitel, Nilgai, Chausingha, Wild Boar and Langur. Sariska is also well known for its large population of Rhesus Monkeys, which are found in large numbers around Talvriksh.

The avian world is also well represented with a rich and varied birdlife. These include Peafowl, Grey Partridge, Bush Quail, Sand Grouse, Tree Pie, Golden backed Wood Pecker, Crested Serpent Eagle and the Great Indian owl. The park consist many undulating hills of all sizes. These hills get higher and the cliffs get sheerer as you progress further into the park.

Topography of the Park
There aren't many prominent water bodies present within the park. There is a small lake to the left of the main road only a small distance from the entrance.One of these is located just to the right of the main road, past a place called Kalighati. There is some excellent grassland with water channels criss-crossing all over them. The park bears a completely different look in the summer months and in the months post-monsoon. It appears extremely dry in the summers and becomes so dense and lush green after the monsoons that it is difficult to see beyond a few feet off the track.

Attractions in Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary
The Palace
Sariska was known as the royal reserve of the rulers of Alwar. This palace built by the Maharajas of Alwar, has now been converted into a hotel.

Jeep Safari
The best way to visit the Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is by jeep and these can be arranged at the Forest Reception Office on Jaipur Road. Booking a `hide', overlooking one of the water holes, can provide an excellent opportunity for wildlife viewing and wildlife photography within the Sariska Sanctuary.

Access
The nearest airport is at Jaipur (115 km 3 hours) and the nearest railway station is at Alwar (36 km). The drive from Delhi takes 5-6 hours.
Best Time
Open throughout the year, the season being November to June. The hot months excellent for wildlife viewing if you can endure the heat. Come spring and enjoy the blooms of the flame-of-the-forest and other trees.

Where to Stay
The Sariska Palace - Heritage