Sariska National Park is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, and historic ruins. Learn what makes this Rajasthan reserve a must-visit for nature and history lovers.

Often compared to Ranthambore - one of the most popular Rajasthan national parks - Sariska is a place where nature and history meet in quiet harmony. The park covers a vast stretch of the Aravalli landscape, inviting travellers to discover a quieter and enjoy an immersive experience away from the crowds.

Unlike Ranthambhore, Sariska feels remote and untouched. Set in the Aravalli Hills around 100 kilometres from Jaipur, this reserve is home to rare bird species, exotic flora, and the mighty Bengal tiger. Every path here leads to something unexpected, whether it is a wildlife encounter or time at an age-old ruin hidden among trees.

What is Sariska National Park famous for?

Sariska National Park, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, is known for its thriving population of Bengal tigers. This famous tiger reserve, spread across more than 800 square kilometres, features rocky hills, grasslands and dry deciduous forests. Besides tigers, Sariska is also home to other big cats and birds, including majestic species like the crested serpent eagle and the elusive sandgrouse.

Once the private hunting ground for the Maharaja of Alwar, Sariska was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1958. Recognising its ecological significance, it was upgraded to a national park in 1979 under the Project Tiger initiative.

However, Sariska faced a major setback in the early 2000s when its population of tigers was wiped out due to poaching and administrative negligence. It was years later when a pioneering conservation effort helped re-establish a breeding population of tigers and made Sariska, India’s first site for a successful tiger relocation programme. Today, Sariska National Park stands as a testament to India’s effort to protect its natural heritage and conservation success.

Other than wildlife, Sariska is one of the many Rajasthan national parks surrounded by significant historical sites. So while you might visit Sariska for a quintessential India tiger safari, Kankwari Fort and the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple complex are also worthy of your time.

The Bengal tiger, one of the most iconic residents of Sariska National Park, can be found here in increasing numbers thanks to conservation efforts and programs to lift their numbers across India.

What are the differences between Sariska and Ranthambhore?

Conveniently located near the Golden Triangle tourism circuit, Sariska and Ranthambhore are the two most popular Rajasthan national parks.

Ranthambore is approximately 400 kilometres from Delhi, and is often included in Golden Triangle tour itineraries for first-time visitors to India. In contrast, Sariska is located in the Alwar district, around 200 kilometres from Delhi, making it a popular choice for weekend getaways for domestic tourists.

While both are well known for their Bengal tiger population, Sariska also features scenic landscapes, dry deciduous forests, rock hills and lush greenery, a haven to other predators and a wide variety of birdlife. When compared to the open terrain of Ranthambore, some visitors prefer this diversity.

Another consideration is that although Ranthambhore is known for its striking scenery and dramatic fort views, Sariska offers a quiet environment with limited visitors and a calm, untamed atmosphere. Ancient ruins such as Kankwari Fort and Neelkanth Temple lie hidden within the forest, adding depth to an India tiger safari in Sariska.

One of the key differences between Sariska National Park and Ranthambhore National Park is the landscape. Sariska is home to a variety of ecosystems with more forests, while Ranthambhore is known for it’s open plains.

Are tigers visible in Sariska National Park?

Yes! And even better, the number of sightings has increased over time in Sariska National Park. As a result of improved conservation efforts and perfect habitat, Sarika is currently home to a total of 43 tigers (11 males, 14 females, and 18 cubs) and has emerged as a top destination for tiger safaris in India.

For practical travel advice, safaris operate twice daily, with early morning drives offering the best chance of encountering tigers. Jeep and canter safaris (a type of group wildlife tour that takes place in an open-top vehicle) are ideal for exploring the rugged terrain and tracking its wildlife.

The park has two main entry gates, with Sariska Gate being the most popular among visitors. It further leads to three core safari zones known for maximum sightings - Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3. Hotspots like Kala Pani, Tarundda and Aal Gwal are the major spots for tiger sightings in Sariska, whereas the buffer zone near Bala Fort also offers occasional sightings. However, keep in mind that the activity or movement of the big cats can always vary.

What animals can I see in Sariska other than tigers?

With over 300 species of vegetation, Sariska National Park is a thriving habitat for an array of wild animals. Alongside tigers, the park is home to several big cats such as leopards, desert cat, caracals, fishing cats and jungle cats. Be sure not to miss the rusty-spotted cat, the smallest wild cat in the world!

Felines aside, the forest prospers with an abundance of other fascinating species, including jackals, striped hyenas, desert foxes, palm civets, and the common mongoose. Reptiles like pythons and crocodiles are often spotted near the Siliserh lakes, while herbivores such as sambar deer, chitals, four-horned antelopes (chousingha), and the nilgai add to the biodiversity.

Sariska National Park is also a paradise for bird watchers. With more than 300 resident and migratory birds recorded, it offers a vibrant show throughout the year. Peafowl (peacocks) here hold the title of one of the highest population densities in India, along with species like the grey partridge, painted spurfowl, bush quail, sand grouse, and rufous treepie are common sightings. Raptors such as the crested serpent eagle, shikra, oriental honey buzzard, and short-toed snake eagle are also highlights for birders.

Sariska National Park is home to a variety of wildlife beyond tigers, including leopards, sambar deer, wild boar, numerous bird species such as peafowl and crested serpent eagles, and the striking Hanuman Langur as seen here.

When is the best time to visit Sariska National Park?

As a general rule, the best time to visit Sariska National Park for a tiger safari is between October and March. The weather during this period is ideal for enjoying safaris and scenic views of the park. With a temperature range between 10°C and 25°C, mornings are usually cooler, and afternoons are comfortable. In addition, the clear skies, lush greenery and better visibility during the winter season make it easier to spot tigers as they come out into the open to bask in the sun.

In contrast, April to June can get extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C. However, a few lucky (or brave) visitors can be rewarded with sightings, as the majestic predators often gather near water sources.

Sariska National Park is usually closed during the monsoon season, and only jungle safaris in the buffer zone (including Siliserh, Bala Quila, and Dadikar forest) between July and September remain in operation. This is designed to promote ecotourism in the region, where the focus is more on showcasing the natural richness of the forest rather than sighting tigers.

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An Introduction To Sariska National Park