Once an ancient Rajput state, formerly known as Mewat, Alwar was nearest to the imperial Delhi. The people of the state did not accept any external interference’s and daringly resisted against foreign invasions. In the 12th and 13th centuries, they formed a group and raided Delhi. But finally Sultan Bulban (1267 A.D. - 1287 A.D.) suppressed them, bringing the area under the Muslims rule. In 1771 A.D. Maharaja Pratap Singh, a Kuchhwaha Rajput belonging to the clan of Jaipur’s rulers, won back Alwar and founded a principality of his own.

Located in the Alwar district, Sariska was declared a sanctuary in the year 1955. Spread over an area of 800 sq km (core area 500 sq km), the sanctuary was further given the status of a National Park in 1979. The topography of the sanctuary is quite similar to that of Ranthambore National Park. Northern Aravalli range dominates the Sariska landscape, with sharp cliffs and narrow valleys. Scrub-thorn arid forests, dry deciduous forests, rocks and grasses, all contribute to the geographical features of Sariska in Rajasthan, India. The climate of Sariska is both inconsistent as well as unpredictable.

Sariska National Park is the heritage of the former rulers of Alwar. Standing as a witness to the rich historical past of the sanctuary are numerous pavilions and temples. One of the famous monuments inside Sariska is the Kankwari Fort. As per the historical records, Mughal emperor Aurangzeb imprisoned his elder brother, Dara Shikoh, in this fort. Along with that, there is also a palace inside the Sariska Tiger Reserve built by the former rulers of Alwar. Then, there is an ancient Shiva temple inside the sanctuary, dating back to the 6th-13th century. The park remains open almost throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the months of October to April.

» Major Attractions of Sariska

Sariska National Park : The Sariska tiger reserve is mainly known for its exotic wildlife. The rich wildlife of the sanctuary includes Tiger, Leopard, Caracal, Rusty spotted cat, Jungle cat, Four-horned antelope, Sambar, Spotted deer, Wild boar, Nilgai, Jackal, Hyena, etc


Sariska Palace : A marvellous palace was built here by Maharaja Jai Singh in the honour of the Duke of Edinburgh during his visit to the sancturary.Presently, it has been converted into a hotel- Sariska Palace.

» Places to Stay in Sariska

The RTDC has done a lot to retain the traditional flavour in its hotels in and around Sariska. Hotels like RTDC's Khadim, come with AC Deluxe rooms as well as ordinary rooms, which give a comfortable stay in the city. There are also Sarai facilities for the pilgrims. The government sponsored paying guest scheme makes the visitor feel at home.

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» How to Get there

Air : Delhi 163 km is the nearest airport, which is well connected to all the major cities which includes Mumbai, Jaipur, Jodhpur.

Rail : Good connection from prominent locations in and around the state. Some important train connections .

Road : Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe buses from Jaipur. Regular services link Alwar with key destinations in and not far off Rajasthan and Delhi. The roads are very good, and it takes around 3-4 hrs from Jaipur. You can also come by taxi. .

» Climate of Sariska

In Summer:38.3 C (Max) - 28.8 C (Min) In winter: 28.3 C (Max) - 8 C (Min) Rainy Season : from July to Mid Sept, and very humid (Upton 90%) Our suggestion : Best time to visit : Sept. to March.