Sariska Tiger Reserve

One of the best destinations for a wildlife safari in west India is Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar. It is spread in an area of 800 sq km, covered by grasslands and rocky cliffs of Aravallis, but itd core area is limited to 500 sq km. The Park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1958 while the Tiger Project took its charge in 1979. The place embraces with elegance, the exotic heritage and history of Rajasthan in the form of wildlife and medieval structures that are peppered across the Sanctuary.

The forests of Sariska are mainly dry deciduous type, prevalent in its red colored soil. It is mainly known as the kingdom of the mighty Tigers but other wild beasts also dwell within the dry scrubby hills including Wild Boars, Sambars, Rhesus Macaque, Langurs, Jungle Cats, Leopards and Dotted Deers. Besides these, a variety of avi fauna and reptiles can also be spotted here.

Like other wildlife sanctuaries Sariska too has faced controversies of missing Tigers, the reason of which is believed to be the increased level of poaching. To look into the matter, several task forces and local forest protection groups have been set up. Even though certain issues have cropped up from time to time, but Sariska has remained a popular wildlife sanctuary among the tourists. It is open throughout the year but the best time to visit is from November to March. One can easily spot the wild in the morning or evening, when they visit the waterholes of the sanctuary.

Sights:
Kankwari Fort:
22 km from the Tiger Reserve lies the remnants of Kankwari Jungle Fort which was built by Aurangzeb to captivate his brother Dara Shikoh. Dara Shikoh was the selected descendant to Mughal emperor Shah Jahan's throne, because of which Aurangzeb, who was next in line to the throne, imprisoned him in the fort before beheading him. The place was chosen by him as it was a secluded and secretive place within dense forests. You can have an amazing view of the Reserve and the nearby villages from here.

Hanuman Temple:
A Hindu temple devoted to Lord Hanuman, lies deep within Sariska forests. The temple is a basic structure made from silver paper and metal umbrellas. Within it lies a rock crafted idol of Lord Hanuman. On Tuesday and Saturday, Indians are not charged entry fees if they are visiting the temple.

Neelkantheshwar Temple:
Dating back to 8th century AD is a temple complex devoted to Lord Shiva, who is also known as Neelkantha. This temple complex is situated 35 km from Sariska Reserve on a plateau, surrounded by graves of priests. The temple remains unhindered by Aurangzeb as it is believed that his army was chased and forced to return back, by the bees that inhabited on the hills.

Bhangarh:
Bhangarh is a lonely city, 55 km from Sariska. The city was founded by Raja Madho Singh in 1631 with around 1000 families living there. But due to mystical desertion of the city, it is believed to be a haunted ground by the locals. Bhangarh is an amazing representation of town planning with its temples, domed houses, havelis and market spaces.

Tours:
The best way to tour around Sariska Tiger Reserve is by jeep safaris, which can be hired from the Forest Reception Office. Private cars are also allowed inside but only on the sealed tracks, this may prove to be a deterrent in spotting wildlife. Due to this, most of the tourists prefer jeep safaris that will give you ample opportunities to explore wildlife by maneuvering beyond the main tracks and pathways.

Its better to hire a petrol jeep rather than a diesel one since the latter tends to create more noise which perturbs the wildlife. Though guided treks are also available, a cheaper and better option is to hire a guide, charges are Rs 10 for a maximum of five tourists. One can also hire a hide or a machaan from one of the waterholes.

Sleeping:
Hotel Sariska Palace: The nearest option to the Tiger Reserve is Hotel Sariska Palace, which is located just next to the entrance gate of the Park. Built by the Maharaja of Alwar to welcome Queen Victoria's son, the Duke of Connaught, it served as a palace and hunting lodge for the Maharajas for several years. You can find influence of French architecture in the structure of this heritage hotel, where you can enjoy the lavish interiors and luxurious facilities on offer. The Hotel is equipped with a health club, swimming pool, yoga centre, sauna, jaccuzzi, conference hall, bar, jeep and camel safari facilities etc.

Amanbagh: The best place to catch up with a comfortable sleep is Amanbagh Resort in Alwar, situated 10 km from Bhangarh. It offers a luxurious stay featuring large suites with domed ceilings, private pools, boutiques, library, spa, indoor games which will make you feel like a king. Set in the scenic locales of Aravallis, the place was once a hunting ground of the Maharajas.

Other good options for accommodation are Sariska Tiger Heaven and RTDC Hotel Tiger Den.

Getting There and Away:
Located at a distance of 35 km from Alwar on the Delhi-Alwar-Jaipur Road, one can easily reach Sariska Tiger Reserve by buses available from Alwar, that stop at the Forest Reception Office. From here, one can easily hire jeeps to navigate inside the Sanctuary.