Sariska

Sariska, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, is one of the most popular wildlife reserves in India. Known for its royal Bengal tigers, rich biodiversity, and scenic landscapes, it attracts both nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The sanctuary lies amidst the Aravalli Hills, making it not just a safari spot but also a destination of history and culture.

Travelers often include Sariska in their Rajasthan tour packages, as it perfectly combines wildlife adventure with heritage attractions. Alongside spotting tigers and leopards, visitors can explore ancient temples, forts, and lakes scattered across the reserve. Whether you are a wildlife photographer, a history buff, or simply someone seeking a weekend escape, Sariska offers an unforgettable experience.

Best Time to Visit Sariska

October to March is considered the best time to visit Sariska, as the weather is cool and pleasant. During these months, temperatures range from 8°C to 25°C, which makes jeep safaris and sightseeing comfortable. This season is also the peak time for spotting animals like tigers, jackals, hyenas, and migratory birds that arrive in winter.

April to June is another good time if you want higher chances of tiger sightings. Although the weather can get hot with temperatures above 35°C, animals often come out to waterholes, giving visitors great opportunities for photography. The monsoon months from July to September should be avoided, as heavy rainfall restricts safari activities and makes the terrain difficult to explore.

How to Reach Sariska

Reaching Sariska is convenient since it is well-connected to major cities in India. As part of Sariska tourism, most travelers reach the reserve via Jaipur, Delhi, or Alwar.

1. By Air

1. Departure City: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai
2. Arrival Airport: Jaipur International Airport (123 km from Sariska)
3. Time Taken: 1–3 hours, depending on departure city
4. Flights: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet operate daily flights
5. From Jaipur, taxis and buses are available to Sariska, taking about 3 hours by road.

2. By Rail

For those preferring rail travel, Alwar Junction, 37 km from Sariska, is the nearest railway station. It has direct train connections from Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Kolkata. From Alwar, taxis, jeeps, and buses are easily available to reach the reserve.

3. By Road

Sariska is also well connected by road, making self-drive or private taxi options popular. The drive from Delhi covers about 200 km via NH48, taking 4–5 hours, while Jaipur is only 110 km away, approximately 2.5 hours. Regular state-run buses and private coaches operate from Delhi, Jaipur, and Alwar. The smooth roads and scenic countryside make the journey enjoyable.

Best Places to Visit in Sariska

Exploring the best places to visit in Sariska gives travelers a mix of wildlife, history, and natural beauty.

1. Sariska Tiger Reserve: The highlight of the region, known for its tigers, leopards, and rare bird species. A jungle safari here is a must for adventure seekers.
2. Kankwari Fort: A historical fort located inside the reserve, once used by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb to imprison his brother Dara Shikoh. It offers stunning views of the forest below.
3. Pandupol Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is linked to the Mahabharata. Surrounded by greenery, it’s a peaceful spot for devotees and nature lovers.
4. Siliserh Lake: A picturesque lake near Alwar, ideal for boating and picnics. The surrounding hills make it a perfect photography location.
5. Bhangarh Fort: Located not far from Sariska, this fort is famous for its legends and haunted stories. It draws curious travelers who enjoy history with a hint of mystery.
6. Sariska Palace: Once the royal hunting lodge of the Alwar kings, it has now been converted into a heritage hotel. Visitors admire its Indo-Saracenic architecture and regal interiors.