Sariska, in Rajasthan, the erstwhile royal
preserve of the rulers of Alwar, became a sanctuary
in the year 1958.
The sanctuary came under the Project Tiger in
1979 and became a national park in 1982. It is
located at Kankwari fort, near Alwar, on the Delhi
- Jaipur Highway.
The terrain is predominantly hilly, as it lies
in the Aravalli range.
It has total area of 788 sq. kilometres, with
a core area of approximately 474 sq. kilometres.
The beautiful Siliserh Lake runs along the edge
of the reserve, with a quaint hunting lodge overlooking
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At last count in 1985, there 35 tigers were reported.
Other carnivores of the area are the panther, jungle
cat, jackal and hyena. Three caracals were also reported
during the last census in 1985. Other animals include
the sambar, chital, wild boar, hare, nilgai and umpteen
porcupines.
Sambar at watering hole
The birdlife comprises of the pea fowl, gray partridge,
quail, sand grouse, tree pie, white breasted kingfisher,
golden - backed woodpecker, crested serpent eagle and
great Indian horned owl.
Magnificent ruins peppered around the neighbourhood
of Sariska add to the region's fascination. The Neelkanth
(Shiva) temples (6th-13th century AD) are just 32 kms
from the Park and the ancient Kankwari Fort inside the
Reserve, is where Emperor Aurangzeb once held his brother
Dara Shikoh captive. A beautiful palace complex built
in 1902 has been converted into a hotel.
How to reach there
You can reach Jaipur by air which is 108 kilometres
from the sanctuary. Nearest town and rail link is at
Alwar, which is 21 kilometres from the park.
When to visit
October to June is the best time to visit the Park.
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