Sariska Safari: Where Tigers Roar Again

If you dream of hearing a tiger's roar echo through ancient hills and want to step into a land where history meets wilderness, then Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan is your perfect destination. Located just a few hours away from Delhi and Jaipur, Sariska is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.

This blog will take you through everything you need to know about Sariska—from safari experiences and wildlife to history, the best time to visit, and travel tips.

The History of Sariska

Sariska's story is as fascinating as its landscape. Once a private hunting ground for the Maharajas of Alwar, it was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and subsequently became a Tiger Reserve under the Project Tiger initiative in 1978.

However, in 2004-05, Sariska made headlines for a tragic reason—poaching had wiped out its entire tiger population. But that's not where the story ends. In 2008, Sariska became the first tiger reserve in the world to successfully relocate tigers from Ranthambore. This historic reintroduction program has been a conservation success story, and today the tiger population is slowly but steadily thriving again.

Wildlife at Sariska: More Than Just Tigers

While the Royal Bengal Tiger is the star attraction, Sariska's forests are home to an incredible diversity of wildlife:

Mammals You Can Spot:

• Leopards (elusive but present)
• Striped Hyenas
• Jungle Cats
• Golden Jackals
• Sambar Deer
• Chital (Spotted Deer)
• Nilgai (Blue Bull)
• Wild Boars
• Langurs and Rhesus Macaques

Birdwatcher's Paradise:

Sariska is a haven for bird lovers with over 200 species of birds, including

• Indian Peafowl
• Crested Serpent Eagles
• Great Indian Horned Owls
• Kingfishers
• Woodpeckers
• Partridges and Quails

Reptiles:

If you're lucky, you might spot pythons, cobras, or monitor lizards basking in the sun.

The Safari Experience: What to Expect

Safari Zones

Sariska is divided into multiple safari zones, with Zone 1 and Zone 2 being the most popular for tiger sightings. Each zone offers a unique landscape—from dense forests to open grasslands and rocky terrain.

Safari Timings

Safaris operate in two shifts:

• Morning Safari: 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM (seasonal variations)
• Evening Safari: 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM (seasonal variations)

Safari Vehicles

You have two options:

• Gypsy (Jeep): Perfect for small groups (max 6 people)—offers better maneuverability.
• Canter: A larger vehicle that can accommodate up to 20 people—good for budget travelers

Booking Process: How to Book Your Sariska Safari

You have multiple options to book your Sariska safari:

Option 1: Book Through BanBanjara (Recommended for Hassle-Free Experience)

BanBanjara offers comprehensive Sariska tour packages with several advantages:

• Weekend Getaway Packages: Special 3-day/2-night tours from Delhi starting at just ₹5,400 per adult (after 38% discount)
• What's Included: Safari booking, accommodation, and transportation are all handled for you
• Package Highlights:
• Bengal tiger sighting opportunities in their natural habitat
• Exciting jeep safaris are organized by the park authorities.
• Visits to Kankwari Fort and Neelkanth Temple within the park
• Expert guides who know the best spots for wildlife viewing
• Confirmation: You receive a confirmation voucher via email within 24 hours of booking
• Contact: Their destination experts are available for any queries

Why Choose BanBanjara? They offer a truly unique experience with everything handled on one platform, so you don't have to worry about multiple bookings.

Best Time to Visit Sariska

• October to March: The ideal time! Pleasant weather and higher chances of wildlife sightings as animals venture out in search of water.
• April to June: Summer can be hot (temperatures up to 40°C), but this is actually the best time for tiger sightings as animals gather near water bodies.
• July to September: Monsoon season—the reserve is often closed during this period.

Beyond the Safari: Exploring Sariska

1. Kankwari Fort

Located inside the forest, this 17th-century fort has a dark history—it's where Aurangzeb imprisoned his brother Dara Shikoh. The fort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Most BanBanjara packages include a visit here.

2. Pandupole Temple

According to legend, this is where Bhima from the Mahabharata created a passage through the rocks with his mace to fetch water for Draupadi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and has a beautiful waterfall nearby (best visited after the monsoon).

3. Neelkanth Temple

This ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located within the park and is a significant religious and historical site, attracting devotees and tourists alike.

4. Siliserh Lake

Located about 30 km from Sariska, this serene lake is perfect for a relaxing evening. You can enjoy boating while watching the sunset over the Aravalli hills.

5. Bhangarh Fort

If you're interested in the paranormal, the famous "haunted" Bhangarh Fort is just a detour away on your way back from Sariska.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Safari

1. Book in Advance: Safaris fill up quickly, especially during weekends and peak season. BanBanjara recommends booking at least 30 days in advance for the best availability.
2. Carry Essentials: Binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, water bottles, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
3. Dress Appropriately: Wear neutral colors (khaki, beige, olive)—avoid bright colors that might disturb animals.
4. Reach Early: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your safari slot for a smooth check-in process.
5. Follow Rules: Don't litter, don't get out of the vehicle, and avoid making loud noises.
6. Cancellation Policy Awareness: If booking through BanBanjara, note that cancellations made 0-7 days before departure levy 100% charges, while cancellations made 30+ days prior only levy 20%.
7. Be Patient: Wildlife sighting requires luck and patience. Enjoy the forest even if you don't spot a tiger!

How to Reach Sariska

• By Air: Nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (approx. 110 km)
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Alwar (approx. 36 km)—well-connected to Delhi and Jaipur.
• By Road: Excellent connectivity from Delhi (approx. 180 km) and Jaipur (approx. 110 km). You can drive or take a bus to Alwar and then hire a taxi. BanBanjara's Delhi packages include transportation.

Final Thoughts

Sariska offers a perfect blend of wildlife adventure, historical exploration, and natural beauty. Whether you're a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, the thrill of spotting a tiger in the wild or the serenity of watching deer graze at dawn is an experience you'll treasure forever.