Rajasthan’s Hidden Tiger Gem
Sariska Tiger Reserve, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, is one of India’s most important tiger conservation success stories. After losing its entire tiger population to poaching in 2005, Sariska made history by becoming the first tiger reserve in the world to successfully reintroduce tigers — a remarkable conservation comeback that continues to inspire.
Why Sariska?
Sariska offers a unique combination of wildlife, ancient temples, and Rajput ruins — all within easy reach of Delhi and Jaipur. The reserve is set in the Aravalli hill range and features dramatic rocky terrain, dry deciduous forest, and cliff faces that create a stunning safari backdrop.
- 25+ Tigers — reintroduced from Ranthambore, now breeding successfully
- 866 sq km — covering core and buffer zones in the Aravalli range
- Kankwari Fort — 17th-century fort inside the reserve where Aurangzeb imprisoned his brother Dara Shikoh
- Pandupol Temple — ancient Hanuman temple deep inside the forest
- Closest Tiger Reserve to Delhi — just 200 km, making it a perfect weekend getaway
The Tiger Comeback
Sariska’s tiger story is one of tragedy and triumph:
- 2005: All tigers declared extinct from Sariska due to poaching — a national scandal
- 2008: First tiger (T-1, a female named ST-1) relocated from Ranthambore
- 2009–2012: More tigers translocated; first cubs born in the wild
- 2024–Present: Over 25 tigers now call Sariska home, with regular breeding confirmed
This successful reintroduction proved that with strong protection and political will, tiger populations can recover even from zero.
Safari Experience
- Jeep Safari (6-seater) — conducted in 4×4 Gypsys through designated routes
- Two Shifts — morning and afternoon, each lasting approximately 3 hours
- Fewer Crowds — significantly less tourist traffic compared to Ranthambore
- Heritage Stops — safaris can include visits to Kankwari Fort and Pandupol Temple
Best Time to Visit
- October–March — Cool weather, excellent wildlife sightings. Temperature: 8°C–27°C.
- April–June — Hot but tiger sightings increase near waterholes. Temperature: 30°C–47°C.
- Monsoon (July–September) — Park partially closed. Limited safari availability.
Key Wildlife
- Royal Bengal Tiger (reintroduced)
- Indian Leopard
- Striped Hyena
- Sambar Deer, Chital (Spotted Deer)
- Indian Peafowl, Grey Jungle Fowl
- Rhesus Macaque, Langur
How to Reach
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jaipur (110 km, ~2 hours drive) or Delhi IGI (200 km, ~4 hours)
- By Train: Alwar Railway Station (35 km from park gate), well connected to Delhi and Jaipur
- By Road: 200 km from Delhi via NH-8 and SH-13. Excellent road connectivity.
Nearby Attractions
- Alwar City Palace & Museum
- Siliserh Lake Palace (heritage hotel on a lake)
- Bala Quila (Alwar Fort)
- Neemrana Fort Palace (90 km)
