Sariska Tiger Reserve Safari Guide
Sariska Tiger Reserve, located in Rajasthan’s Alwar district, is a wildlife lover’s dream. Spanning 866 square kilometers, this reserve is known for its Bengal tigers, rich biodiversity, and historical landmarks. Once the royal hunting grounds for the Maharajas of Alwar, it is now a protected area under Project Tiger. With its proximity to Delhi and Jaipur, Sariska is one of the most accessible and popular tiger reserves in India.
Sariska Safari Booking: How to Plan Your Adventure
Planning your Sariska safari in advance is highly recommended to secure the best experience. The reserve offers two safari options: Jeep Safaris (6-seater vehicles) and Canter Safaris (20-seater vehicles). Both options take you through different zones of the park, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and explore the natural beauty of Sariska.
Premium Safari by Eagle Safaris
For those seeking an elevated experience, Eagle Safaris offers a Premium Safari package. This exclusive service is designed for wildlife enthusiasts who want a more in-depth and personalized adventure. The Premium Safari includes:
- Highly Experienced Naturalists: Our expert naturalists have a deep knowledge of Sariska’s flora and fauna. They provide insightful commentary throughout the safari, ensuring you don’t miss any key wildlife behaviours or sightings.
- Skilled Drivers: Our drivers are trained to navigate the park’s diverse terrain and maximize your chances of seeing elusive wildlife like tigers and leopards.
- Exclusive Zones: The premium package gives you access to less-travelled zones in reserve, allowing for a more peaceful and private safari experience.
- Custom Timings: We offer more flexible timing options to ensure you get the best lighting and conditions for wildlife photography or simply enjoy the reserve without the rush.
The Premium Safari is ideal for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, or those looking for a luxurious, tailored experience in the heart of nature.
Sariska Safari Price: What It Costs
The Sariska safari price varies depending on your choice of vehicle and the level of service. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Jeep Safari (6-seater):
- Indian Nationals: INR 9000 per jeep (6 Adults & 2 Kids)
- Foreign Nationals: INR 14000 per jeep (6 Adults & 2 Kids)
- Canter Safari (20-seater):
- Indian Nationals: INR 1500 per person
- Foreign Nationals: INR 2500-3000 per person
- Premium Safari by Eagle Safaris:
- Custom pricing is based on the level of exclusivity, starting from INR 12000 per person for an unforgettable, private experience with an expert naturalist and exclusive access to quieter zones.
Prices may vary based on the time of year, and additional charges apply for camera equipment or professional filming. Be sure to confirm rates during your Sariska safari booking.
Sariska Safari Gates: Choosing the Right Entry Point
Sariska has two primary entry gates, each offering access to different safari zones:
- Sariska Gate (Main Gate): This is the most frequently used entry point, located near the town of Sariska. Safaris through this gate typically cover Zone 1 and Zone 2, which are known for frequent tiger sightings and house the popular Pandupol Hanuman Temple.
- Tehla Gate: Situated on the eastern side of the reserve, this gate is perfect for those seeking a quieter, offbeat experience. Safaris from Tehla Gate give access to Zone 3 and Zone 4, known for their tranquil environment and sightings of leopards, deer, and diverse birdlife.
When booking your Sariska safari, you can choose the gate and zone based on your wildlife interests and preferred safari experience.
Safari Zones in Sariska: What to Expect
The reserve is divided into multiple safari zones, each offering distinct landscapes and wildlife experiences:
- Zone 1 (Sariska Gate): Known for its frequent tiger sightings, this zone is one of the most popular among tourists. It also features the Pandupol Hanuman Temple, adding a spiritual element to the safari.
- Zone 2 (Sariska Gate): A mix of thick forests and open grasslands, this zone is great for spotting langurs, leopards, and herds of deer. It’s also a hotspot for birdwatching.
- Zone 3 (Tehla Gate): A less crowded zone offering a peaceful safari experience, with the chance to see sambar deer, wild boars, and occasionally a leopard.
- Zone 4 (Tehla Gate): This zone’s rugged terrain makes it ideal for those looking to explore Sariska’s wilder side. It is known for sightings of jungle cats, porcupines, and other nocturnal animals.
Choosing a safari zone in Sariska depends on what you’re hoping to see. For tigers, Zone 1 and 2 are the best bets, while Zone 3 and 4 offer a quieter, more exclusive experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit Sariska Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit Sariska Tiger Reserve is between October and June, when the weather is cooler, and the wildlife is more active. Safaris are offered year-round, but the reserve is closed during the monsoon season (July to September) due to heavy rains. Early morning safaris provide the best chances for tiger sightings, while the evening slots are great for catching animals near water bodies as they come to drink.
Wildlife at Sariska: A Rich Ecosystem
Sariska Tiger Reserve is home to a wide array of wildlife, making every safari an exciting adventure:
- Bengal Tigers: Successfully reintroduced into the park, Sariska’s tiger population is thriving, and sightings have become more frequent in Zone 1.
- Leopards: The park has a healthy leopard population, with sightings often occurring in Zone 2 and Zone 3.
- Other Mammals: Sambar deer, chital, nilgai, wild boar, and langurs can be seen throughout the park. The reserve is also home to striped hyenas, jungle cats, and caracals.
- Birdwatching: Sariska is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 220 species, including the crested serpent eagle, Indian peafowl, and painted storks.
Attractions Inside and Near Sariska
- Pandupol Hanuman Temple: Located in Zone 1, this ancient temple is a major pilgrimage site and is believed to be connected to the Pandavas of the Mahabharata. It’s a popular stop for visitors on their safari route.
- Kankwari Fort: This 17th-century fort is perched on a hilltop within the reserve and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. Historically significant, it’s said to be where Mughal emperor Aurangzeb imprisoned his brother Dara Shikoh.
How to Reach Sariska
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, located about 110 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Alwar, approximately 35 km from the reserve. Trains from Delhi, Jaipur, and other major cities frequently connect to Alwar.
- By Road: Sariska is well-connected by road to Delhi (200 km) and Jaipur (107 km). Regular taxis and buses operate from these cities to the reserve.
Tips for Your Sariska Safari
- Plan Ahead: Book your safari in advance, especially if opting for the Premium Safari for an exclusive, tailored experience.
- Choose the Right Gate: If you’re looking for tiger sightings, start from the Sariska Gate. For a quieter, offbeat experience, head to Tehla Gate.
- Pack Essentials: Bring your camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and a hat. It can get chilly during early morning safaris, so pack a light jacket.
- Respect Nature: Follow all park guidelines, remain quiet during the safari, and avoid disturbing the wildlife for the best experience
