Highlights
About Sariska
Sariska is an area which served as a hunting preserve of the erstwhile Alwar city in Rajasthan and was deemed as wild life reserve in 1955. The topography of Sariska is such that it supports deciduous forests, rocks and grasses. It acquired the status of Tiger Reserve in 1978.
The park is situated 107 km from Jaipur and 200 km from Delhi. The host of wild life species included are the Bengal tiger, antelopes, chinkara, sambhar deer, wild hyenas, wild boar, hare, sambhar and four horned antelope. Birds include woodpecker, eagle, owl, partridge, sand grouse, tree pie and bush quail. Since the area of Sariska is tucked away in Aravalli Range, it is abundantly rich in minerals like copper. If the Rajasthani land is famous for tales of amity and harmony it is also famous for ferocious battles and one such battle took place between the sons of Mughal Emperor Shahjahan and the fort of Kankwari stands as a testimony to it. Dara Shikoh used the fort as a hiding place. The fort boasts of green landscapes and fertile meadows. Jungle Safari organized in groups offers trepidation and amusement and is truly a thrilling experience especially if a tiger is seen licking his whiskers and roaring back at the camera. The temple of Naldeshwar is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at some distance off the highway joining Sariska to Alwar. The shrine is surrounded by thick forests and the walk to the temple and spending time in the pristine environment is a moment to capture in one's heart. Neelkanth Mahadev temple is a famous temple located in the vicinity of Tehla and accomodates ruins of 300 temples dedicated to Hinduism and Jainism. These temples are an intriguing example of the artistic glory that prevailed few centuries ago. Sariska Palace was constructed as hunting lodge in the end of 19th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh of Alwar in a quiet, serene and dense valley on the threshold of Sariska National Park.
Places To See
Neelkanth MahadevLocated in the Sariska National Park, the temple complex houses ruins of more than 300 temples. The complex is surrounded by thick forests. The ruins date to 6th and 13th centuries and showcase excellent stone carvings.
Bhangarh FortLocated in the Bhangarh town, the fort is said to be one of the most haunted places in India. Though mostly in ruins, the fort has several monuments and structures that give an insight into the culture and lifestyle of the royal families of Rajasthan. You can also climb up to the tower at the top of the hillock and take in the mesmerizing view of the fort and the Aravali hills.
Hanuman Temple of PandupolThe temple is located inside the Sariska National Tiger Reserve. Legend has it that the Pandava brothers took shelter here during their years in exile.
Kankawari FortThe fort, which is now mostly in ruins, was once used by Emperor Aurangzeb to keep his brother, Dara, in captivity. The fort is located on top of a hill and provides magnificent views of the surroundings.
Things To Do
Sariska National ParkAlso known as the Sariska Tiger Reserve, the national park was once the private hunting grounds of the ruling family of Alwar. In 1979, it was declared a national park. Set amidst the backdrop of the Aravali hills, it has diverse topography such as grasslands, dry deciduous forests, and rocky cliffs. The park houses a rich diversity of wildlife such as tiger, sambars, leopards, chitals, four-horned antelopes, and nilgais among other animals. The birds are represented by peafowls, sand grouse, crested serpent eagles and golden-backed woodpeckers. You can also view ruins of ancient temples and forts that date to the 10th and 11th centuries.
Jungle Safari in Sariska National ParkThe jungle safari is the perfect way to enjoy the rich flora and fauna of the park. The safaris are held in the early mornings and late evenings. Advance bookings are recommended.
