Sariska Tiger Reserve & National Park   |    RTDC Hotel Tiger Den   |    Sariska Palace   |    Hotel Lake Palace   |    RTDC Hotel Meenal   |    By Road

This region has always been good tiger country, and though the forest is much smaller now than it used to be, it remains a haven for them. At the last count in 1985 , a population of 35 was reported. Tiger sightings during daylight hours are uncommon but it appears that they are increasing as human interference decreases. Panther, jungle cat, jackal and hyena are among the other carnivores of the forest.

The Siliserh Lake is on the edge of the tiger reserve, just off the road between Sariska and Alwar. This road has considerable traffic and one is not likely to see many animals when driving on it though it runs through the sanctuary . But the lake itself has crocodiles which can be seen basking on the banks, particularly in winter. There is also a small place on a hill by the lake which is now a hotel . Among the prey population are the sambal, chital, nilgai, wild boar, hare and numerous porcupine. Over the last 10 years or more the prey population has become very visible and their

numbers appear to be on the increase. Wildlife observation here is best done by driving into the forest in the morning or evening. Animal behavior at a water hole is fascinating to watch and this reserve offers unique opportunities for this. If one is lucky, a tiger, a panther or a wild dog may put in an appearance , though the cats are likely to show up only after dark, and cautiously. The park is rich in bird life too. Common pea fowl abound ,and gray partridge, quail , sand grouse, tree pie, white- breasted kingfisher, golden-backed woodpecker, crested serpent eagle and great Indian horned owl are among the many species found here. The best time to visit this forest is from November to March. In April, May and June, it is easy to observe the animals as they must come to drink at the water holes, but these months are extremely hot.

Sariska Tiger Reserve & National Park

Situated 107 km from Jaipur and 200 km from Delhi, the Sanctuary is in a wooded valley surrounded by barren mountains. It covers 800 sq. km (including a core area of 498 sq km) and has blue bulls , sambar, spotted deer, wild boar and, above all, tigers. Project Tiger has been in charge of the sanctuary since 1979. As at Ranthambhore National Park, also in Rajasthan, this park contains ruined temples as well as a fort, pavilions and a palace (now a hotel) built by the the maharajas of Alwar, the former owners of this area. The sanctuary can be visited year-round, except during July/August when the animals move to higher ground, but the best time is between November and June. You'll see most wildlife in the evening, though tiger sightings are becoming more common during the day. The best way to see game is to book a 'hide' overlooking one of the waterholes. Take along food, drink and a sleeping bag (mattresses are provided).

RTDC Hotel Tiger Den

Tel: 0144-41342

Sariska Palace

From Delhi via Alwar 200 km , from Jaipur airport 120 km, from Sariska 36 km.
Tel 0144-41322

Hotel Lake Palace (RTDC)

Siliserh. 28 km from Sariska, 15 km from Alwar.
Tel: 86322

RTDC Hotel Meenal

1/2 km from Alwar railway station, 3 km from Bus stand. Tel : 22852, 22991.

By Road

Sariska is 35 km from Alwar, which is a convenient town from which to approach the sanctuary. There are direct buses to Alwar from Delhi (170 km) and Jaipur (146 km) . Though some people attempt to visit Sariska on a day trip from Jaipur, this option is expensive and largely a waste of time.