Of
the regular visitors to Sariska National Park, many head straight to a 17th century
castle on a sharp hilltop at Kankwari, as it provides a panoramic view of flying
Egyptian vultures and eagles. The entire area was declared a sanctuary in
1955 and came under the ambit as Project Tiger National Park in 1979.
The
park also owes its existence to the conscious villagers who took the battle of
fighting against poachers and stove to revive what was a depleting forest resource.
Within the Sariska wildlife sanctuary there are the ruins of medieval temples
of Garh-Rajor, belonging to the 10th and 11th centuries. Sariska was also known
as the royal reserve of the rulers of Alwar. This palace built by the Maharajas
of Alwar, has now been converted into a heritage hotel.
Just 107 kms from
Jaipur, the Sariska Park is precious possession home to numerous carnivores including
Leopard, Wild Dog, Jungle Cat, Hyena, Jackal, and Tiger. These feed on an abundance
of prey 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 in large numbers around Talvriksh.
For the delight of Ornithologists,
the avian world is also well represented with a rich and varied bird life. The
prized families of resident and migratory ones include Peafowl, Grey Partridge,
Bush Quail, Sand Grouse, Tree Pie, Golden-backed Wood Pecker, Crested Serpent
Eagle and the Great Indian Horned Owl.
What one
can see in Sariska
- Ruins of ancient temples
- The
Kankwari Fort
- The ancient Shiva Temple
- The Palace
-
Siliserh Lake
What one can do in Sariska
The best way to visit the Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is by jeep and these can
be arranged at the Forest Reception Office on Jaipur Road. One can indulge in
Photography of different birds animals that come to waterholes. The best way to
do it is book 'Hides' as these provide excellent view of the water holes.
Approach to Sariska
The nearest airport that connects Sariska
to outside world is Delhi as also a domestic one at Jaipur. Regular buses that
ply from Delhi to Jaipur also go via Sariska. The nearest rail junction is at
Alwar.
