 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 it.
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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