Sightseeing Highlights:
The main draw at Sariska is, without a doubt, the Sariska National Park. The wildlife residing here covers a wide range of species, and probably the best possible place to see them are the watering holes, namely Bandipol, Slopka, Pandupol and Kalighati. There are many machans or vantage points from where one can observe the animals here. These also serve as great spots for those indulging in wildlife photography.
The park also hosts some historic structures, such as the Kankawari Fort, where Mughal Emperor Aurengzeb is reported have imprisoned his brother in the 17th century. Nearby is the Sariska Palace, which was built by Jai Singh, the Maharaja of Alwar, it has now been converted into a heritage hotel. Several temple ruins also lie scattered in and around Sariska. Among these, the Pandupol Temple, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and the Garh Rajor Temple are worth a visit. Adjoining the reserve is the scenic Siliserh Lake, overlooking a beautiful royal hunting lodge built by Maharaja Vinay Singh, and an ideal spot for picnicking and boating.
Other Activities:
The Jai Samand Lake, just 6 km from town, makes for an interesting day trip. This picturesque, manmade lake was built by Maharaja Jai Singh and is set amidst lush greenery. It's a great place for a family picnic and offers fishing and water sports facilities too.
A little farther away is the Vijay Mandir Palace, which was also constructed by Jai Singh, and is set on the banks of a charming lake. The Sita Ram Temple here attracts hundreds of worshippers, as does the museum inside the palace. Prior permission is required to visit the palace.
Tourism info:
Tourist Reception Centre,
Opp. Railway Station,
Alwar.
Tel: 0144-221868.
Set in the shadows of the Aravalli Range, the quiet town of Sariska is situated at a distance of 35 km from Alwar, and is primarily known for the Sariska National Park and Tiger Reserve. Formerly serving as the hunting grounds of the rulers of the small state of Alwar, the area was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955, designated a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in 1979, and finally gained national park status in 1982.
Unfortunately a recent tiger census revealed that there are no tigers in the reserve, since they have all been killed by illegal poachers. However, the 800 sq km park is home to other animal and bird life, including panthers, jungle cats, hyenas, jackals, wild boars, peafowls, golden-backed woodpeckers, crested serpent eagles, vultures and horned owls to name just a few. The region is also known for its unique flora, which is especially eye-catching during spring and early summer when the plants come into bloom, some bearing fruits and berries, and bring to life the otherwise arid desert terrain, characterised by rocky, dry deciduous forests and sparse shrubbery. |
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