Sariska National Park, Rajasthan

Sariska National Park

Rajasthan

a National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the Alwar district of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Located around 107 kilometers away from Jaipur, this national park covers a vast expanse of 800 sq. kilometers area and is managed by the Government of Rajasthan. 

The National Park is divided into sections of deciduous forests, grasslands, rocky landscapes and steep cliffs. The sanctuary is also home to a variety of wildlife species such as leopards, Sambhar deer, hyenas, crocodiles, woodpeckers, boars, Indian tigers, peafowls and a number of other avian species and marsh animals. 

The Sariska National Park also encircles the 'Siliserh Lake' and the 'Jai Samand Lake', which are home to a number of crocodiles, water snakes and other amphibians. Although there are not many tourist destinations around Sariska, the National Park serves as the idyllic escape for tourists seeking tranquility and vast expanses of flora and fauna in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

History
The Sariska National Park was initially the hunting grounds for the Royal family in the early 18th and 19th century. 

In fact, the wildlife sanctuary still houses the ruins of medieval houses and temples that date back to the 10th and 11th centuries, suggesting that the wildlife sanctuary was occupied by inhabitants a long time ago, although there is no documentary evidence suggesting the same. In 1958, Sariska was declared a wildlife sanctuary and in 1978, as a Project Tiger Reserve and a National Park respectively.

The Highlights Of The Place
The park surrounds a couple of historical spots that are also frequented by tourists such as the ancient 'Kankawadi Fort', the 'Nilkanth Temple', both built by the local Bargujars, and the Sariska Palace. 

The national park is now being visited for a lot more reasons than just the wildlife. However, the deciduous, acacia woods, the safaris and the marsh animals by the lake are still the popular highlights of the wildlife sanctuary. 

Endangered species, such as the Indian tigers, are commonly sighted at this national park, and are also the highlights here. 'Pandupole' is a popular pilgrimage spot build by the mythological characters, the 'Pandavas', which is also flocked by tourists and pilgrims alike.

How To Reach

By Air:
The Jaipur Sanganer Airport is the nearest airport from Sariska and is located in Sanganer, approximately 107 kilometers from the National Park. All major destinations are well-connected to the Jaipur Airport.

By Rail:
The nearest railway station is located at Alwar, 37 kilometers away from the Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary.

By Road:
Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is located off the Delhi-Alwar-Jaipur Road. Jaipur is located 107 kilometers away from the wildlife sanctuary and 200 kilometers from the country's capital, New Delhi. Sariska is well-connected with Alwar, which is directly connected to NH-8.

Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the Sariska National Park is throughout the year. If you want to avoid the scorching heat, it is advised to visit it during the months of October to March. The park is open to public from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM but stays closed on most national holidays.

If you are looking for a relaxed excursion to an idyllic location, the Sariska National Park has plenty to offer in terms of flora, fauna and dazzling scenery. Apart from being one of the top wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan, the Sariska National Park is also a popular pilgrimage destination and is a must-visit while sightseeing in Rajasthan

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