Sariska National Park: A Complete Guide to the Tiger Reserve

Sariska National Park is located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, spread across 881 square kilometers of the Aravalli Hills. It is one of the closest places to Delhi and Jaipur where you can see the Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat.

What makes the Sariska Tiger Reserve different from other parks is its mix of wildlife and history. You aren’t just looking for animals; you’re driving past 10th-century temple ruins and hilltop forts while keeping an eye out for leopards and tigers.

Wildlife You’ll See in Sariska

While most people visit to spot a tiger, the park has a lot more to offer. Because the terrain is rocky and dry, it’s actually easier to spot certain animals here than in thicker jungles.

Big Cats: Sariska is home to Royal Bengal Tigers and a healthy population of Indian Leopards.

Other Predators: You might see Striped Hyenas, Jackals, and Jungle Cats.

Herbivores: Sambar deer, Chital (spotted deer), Nilgai, and Wild Boar are very common near the water holes.

Birdlife: There are over 200 species of birds here. Keep an eye out for Peacocks (Sariska has one of the highest densities in India), Grey Partridges, and Golden Woodpeckers.

Sariska zone
viratnagar

Historical Spots Inside the Park

Pandupol Hanuman Temple: This is an ancient temple located deep inside the forest. According to legend, the Pandavas spent time here. It’s a very popular spot for pilgrims.
Kankwari Fort: A 17th-century fort sitting on a hill with a view of the entire valley. This is where the Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh was kept prisoner by his brother Aurangzeb.
Neelkanth Temple: A collection of ruins from the 6th to 10th centuries with incredible stone carvings.

Planning Your Visit to Sariska Tiger Reserve

Best Time to Visit

The park is open from October to June.

Winter (October to March): The weather is pleasant, making it the most comfortable time for a safari.

Summer (April to June): It gets very hot, but this is the best time for photography. Animals stay near the water holes, so your chances of seeing a tiger are much higher.

How to Reach

From Delhi: It’s about 200 km (a 4 to 5-hour drive).

From Jaipur: It’s about 110 km (a 2-hour drive).

By Train: The nearest station is Alwar Junction, which is 36 km away from the park entrance.

Important Information for Visitors

If you are planning to go inside the jungle, keep these points in mind:

Weekly Openings:

On Tuesdays and Saturdays, private vehicles are allowed on the road leading to the Pandupol Temple. On other days, you must use authorized vehicles.

Park Closures:

The main tiger reserve zones are closed during the monsoon season (July to September).

Safari Booking:

For those looking to go on a wildlife safari, checkout Sariska Safari Booking with all the latest rates and timings.

Best Sariska Tour Packages

Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, Sariska offers an enchanting escape into the wilderness for avid adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, Sariska beckons travelers to embark on a journey of discovery and wonder. With Sariska tour packages, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of this natural haven while experiencing the region's cultural heritage.

Sariska Weekend Tour 1 night 2 days
Sariska Weekend Tour 1 Night 2 Days

1 Night / 2 Days

Sariska Weekend Tour Package 2 nights 3 days
Sariska Weekend Tour Package 2 Nights 3 Days

2 Nights / 3 Days

Sariska with Ranthambore 2 nights 3 days
Sariska with Ranthambore 2 Nights 3 Days

2 Nights / 3 Days

Sariska with Bharatpur 2 nights 3 days
Sariska with Bharatpur 2 Nights 3 Days

2 Nights / 3 Days

Hotels in Sariska

Located in the royal state of Rajasthan, within the Aravalli range, Sariska is an attractive place which has a rich historical background and diverse wildlife as well as breath-taking landscapes. When they set on their way to discover this jewel, travelers are confronted with many kinds of places to stay that can satisfy any kind of taste. Whether it is luxurious resort or tiny family hotels, for each visitor Sariska offers unforgettable accommodation.

Gulmohar Sariska Resort
Gulmohar Sariska Resort
Sariska Tiger Heaven
Sariska Tiger Heaven
Sariska Safari Lodge
Sariska Safari Lodge
The Sariska Retreat
The Sariska Retreat

Frequently Asked Questions

As of 2024-2025, the tiger population in Sariska has grown to over 30, thanks to successful relocation and conservation efforts.

Zones 1, 2, and 3 are generally considered the best for tiger sightings, though leopards are often seen in the buffer areas as well.

Yes, you can do a morning and evening safari in one day if you are coming from Alwar or Jaipur. However, staying overnight allows you to see the fort and temples without rushing.

Sariska is about 200 km from Delhi (a 4-5 hour drive) and 110 km from Jaipur (a 2-hour drive). This makes it the most convenient weekend getaway for people living in the NCR or Rajasthan.

If you are a photographer or traveling in a small group, a 6-seater Jeep is better because it can go into narrower tracks. If you are on a budget or traveling in a large group, the 20-seater Canter is a good choice. Both go into the same forest zones.

Private vehicles are only allowed on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and only on the specific road leading to the Pandupol Hanuman Temple. You cannot take your own car into the core jungle for wildlife sightings; for that, you must book an official safari vehicle.

The cost depends on whether you choose a Jeep or a Canter and whether you are an Indian national or a foreigner. Prices usually include the forest permit, vehicle hire, and guide fees. It’s best to check the latest rates on our [Sariska Safari Booking] page before you visit.

Ranthambore is more famous, but it is also much more crowded. Sariska is quieter, closer to Delhi, and offers a more peaceful experience. If you want to avoid the "jeep jams" and enjoy the raw landscape of the Aravallis, Sariska is the better pick.