Sariska Tiger Reserve is a place in Alwar, Rajasthan, that offers a unique fusion of wildlife, nature, and adventure. Known as one of the oldest national parks, it is a natural habitat for many endangered wild animals and bird species. Before visiting this fantastic wildlife retreat near Delhi, let’s provide some essential facts about it.
Sariska Tiger Reserve: Home of Bengal tigers & other species
Before we brief you about the luxury stay at Sariska, we would like to give you an overview of the national park and what makes it worth a visit during your weekend break from Delhi. Located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, Sariska Tiger Reserve is a retreat for wildlife lovers, as they can see the rarest sights of endangered species, from Bengal tigers to other animals and birds.
Connectivity with mythological legend
Besides being popular for wild animals, many must know an interesting fact about the Sariska region. Cuddled in the lush folds of Aravallis, its roots are steeped in three mythological instances from Mahabharata: Pandavas and Pandupol, Bhima meeting with Lord Hanuman, and Moosi and Bakhtawar.
How Sariska evolved from graveyard to conservation of tigers
Sariska Tiger Reserve is one of India’s oldest tiger reserves, luring wildlife enthusiasts in the awe of viewing the striped big cats. Regarding the tiger population from 11th June 2024, there are around 11 male tigers, 14 female tigers, and 18 cubs. But there was a time when Sariska became a tiger-less region or, say, a graveyard for tigers due to hunting by a notorious poacher, Sansar Chand.
In the early 2000s, he was on a killing spree, hunting down the striped beasts, which resulted in their sharp decline. In 2005, the poacher was arrested and sent to jail. Things started showing good signs on 28 June 2008, with the translocation of the first tiger from Ranthambore to Sariska at Nayapani via airlift in an IAF MI 17.
The tiger was marked ST1. Soon, in July, another tiger marked ST 2 joined him. This was all thanks to the Project Tiger initiative, which helped save the big cats by increasing their population to around 28 (present). This became possible after rehabilitating villagers from the reserve.
Animals to see in Sariska
When Sariska is mentioned, the picture that makes anyone imagine is of royal Bengal tigers. These majestic beasts are the star attraction among tourists and wildlife lovers who cannot resist the urge to see them. Other than tigers, the other animals to spot here are:
- Bengal tigers
- Spotted deer
- Wild boars
- Nilgai
- Four horned antelopes
- Rhesus Macaque
- Leopards
- Striped hyenas
- Cats of different species
- Porcupines
- Langurs
- Monitor lizards
- Crocodiles
Besides animals, the wildlife reserve is also a habitat of more than 200 species of birds.
Entry gates & safari timings to explore wildlife
Like there are entry gates at other wildlife sanctuaries to explore wildlife, there are two main gates at Sariska. One is Tehla Gate and another is Sariska Gate. Sprawling over 881 km², the tiger reserve is divided into three zones.
In comparison to Tehla Gate having one safari route, Sariska Gate has three. Among the two gates, Sariska Gate is mostly preferred by tourists due to the possibility of maximum sightings of big cats in zones 1, 2, and 3. For Zone 4, you have to enter through Tehla Gate. Jeep Safari and Canter Safari are the two types of safaris to explore wildlife.
Safari timings in summer
- Morning – 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM
- Evening – 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Safari timings in winter
- Morning – 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM
- Evening – 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Best time to visit Sariska Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit Sariska Tiger Reserve is from October to March. The climate during these months is favourable, giving you relief from scorching temperatures. The wildlife region is best visited during the winter as this is the best time to see the migratory birds from different parts of the world.
Other prominent places to visit near Sariska Tiger Reserve
Don’t confine your visit merely to Sariska Tiger Reserve to view the endangered striped felines. There are other prominent places to add in your travel itinerary. These include:
- Bala Quila Fort
- Kankwari Fort
- Garbhaji Waterfall
- Bhangarh Fort
- Pandupol Hanuman Temple
- Siliserh Lake
Where to plan your stay near Sariska Tiger Reserve
jüSTa Alwar Bagh Resort is the best resort in Sariska with all kinds of facilities to ensure guests experience a memorable stay. Set amidst lush greens on five acres near the tiger reserve, the resort represents Rajasthan’s royal heritage. It is a perfect retreat for wildlife lovers who will get relief from the chaos of urban life.
The resort features lavish rooms and suites, each with luxuries and modern amenities. Every room is adorned with fabulous interior designs and colour hues. You get serene views of the pool and garden.
Besides luxurious stay options, the resort is also a recreational retreat that lets guests spend a peaceful time in the lap of nature and enjoy a refreshing dive in the swimming pool amidst nature.
Even for hosting a destination wedding in Sariska, jüSTa Alwar Bagh Resort once again proves its worth as an exceptional venue with spacious facilities. These include a banquet hall (18000 sq. ft.), front lawn (52000 sq. ft.), Amla Bagh (20000 sq. ft.), poolside lawn (25000 sq. ft.), and outdoor recreational area (5200 sq. ft.).
Regarding dining, Amaltas is the top restaurant in Sariska welcoming guests at its indoor and alfresco area. The menu here features regional flavours and international cuisines. The restaurant caters to different tastes with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food options. This in-house restaurant is perfect for romantic dining, casual meals, or any special event.
Conclusion
Sariska Tiger Reserve is a famous wildlife sanctuary in Alwar, Rajasthan. It is a safe habitat for many endangered species, including animals and birds. Among the facts we presented about this tiger reserve, we mentioned how it evolved from a stage where it was completely bereft of striped big cats due to poaching.
Thanks to Project Tiger that proved a helpful initiative in saving these wild big cats from extinction. If you are keen to view them with their litters, jüSTa Alwar Bagh Resort is a comfortable refuge from the rigours of urban life. Booking this jungle resort for your stay will let you weave unforgettable memories in Sariska.
