|
Español Français Italiano
Deutsch
This park is situated only 200 km from Delhi and
107 kms from Jaipur. Although larger than
Ranthambor,
it is less commercialised and has less tigers but a similar
topography. It covers an area of 800 sq km in total, with a core
area of approximately 500 sq km. The Northern Aravali Hills
dominate the skyline with their mixture of sharp cliffs and long
narrow valleys. The area was declared a sanctuary in 1955 and
became a National Park in 1979.
The landscape of Sariska comprises of hills and narrow valleys
of the Aravali hill range. The topography of Sariska supports
scrub-thorn arid forests, dry deciduous forests, rocks and
grasses. The broad range of wildlife here is a wonderful example
of ecological adoption and tolerance, for the climate here is
variable as well as erratic.
It is located in the contemporary Alwar district and is the
legacy of the Maharajas of Alwar. Pavilions and Temples within
Sariska are ruins that hint at past riches and glory. The nearby
Kankwadi Fort has a long and turbulent history.
In morning and evening, wildlife in Sariska heads towards the
many water holes, which litter the park, thus providing the guests
with their best chance of viewing game. At some of these watering
holes it is possible to book hides which are situated in prime
spots for wildlife viewing.
The
picturesque Siliserh Lake lies along the edge of the Sariska Tiger
Reserve and a charming hunting lodge overlooking it, is a
marvelous place for visitors to stay.
The dry Deciduous forests of the ancient Aravalli range, are
excellent tiger country and Sariska, was once the royal reserve of
the rulers of Alwa''. Declared a sanctuary in 1955, it became a
Tiger Reserve in 1979 under Project Tiger Herds of sambar, chital,
nilgai and sounders of wild boar - the prey population for
predators like the tiger and leopard, roam the 765.80 sq km
Reserve. Other carnivores include the hyena, jungle cat, and
caracal. Interestingly enough, the dhole or wild dog has been
sighted in the Park only in the last few years.
The park is home to numerous carnivores including Leopard, Wild
Dog, Jungle Cat, Civets Hyena, Jackal, and Tiger. These feed on
species such as Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Chausingha, Wild Boar and
Langur. Sariska is also well known for its large population of
Rhesus Monkeys, which are found around Talvriksh.
The avian world is also well represented with Peafowl, Grey
Partridge, Bush Quail, Sand Grouse, Tree Pie, Golden backed
Woodpecker, crested Serpent Eagle and The Great Indian horned Owl.
The park is open almost whole year-round, but for wildlife
viewing and your comfort it is best to visit from October to
April. Safaris are provided by jeep.
The
Park has hides carefully located near the water holes. These
afford fine opportunities for viewing and photographing wildlife.
Splendid ruins scattered in the vicinity of Sariska give it an
added interest.
The Neelkanth temples (6th-13th century AD) are just 32 km. from
the Park and the historic Kankwari Fort inside the Reserves is
where the Emperor Aurangzeb one imprisoned his brother Dara Shikoh.
Splendid palace complex built in with a 'French' pavilion and
swimming pool, is now a hotel.
General Information:
Best Time to Visit: October to June.
Nearest Town: Alwar (21 km)
How to Get There:
Air: Jaipur (108 km)
Rail: Alwar (21 km)
|