If you are an avid nature lover, then the Sariska National Park in Rajasthan is a must-visit destination. It is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in India and attracts thousands of tourists every year. This national park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
In this article, we will take you through everything you need to know about the Sariska National Park, from its history to its wildlife and tourism activities. So, let’s get started.
1. Introduction
Sariska National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, India. It was established in 1955 and was declared a tiger reserve in 1979. The national park covers an area of 800 square kilometers and is surrounded by the Aravalli hills.
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2. Location and History
Sariska National Park is located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, which is approximately 200 kilometers from the capital city, Delhi. It is well-connected by road and rail, and the nearest airport is in Jaipur, which is approximately 110 kilometers away.
The national park was originally the hunting ground of the Maharajas of Alwar, and it was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955. In 1979, it was declared a tiger reserve under the Project Tiger initiative.
3. Geographical Features
Sariska National Park is situated in the Aravalli range and has a hilly terrain with several valleys and plateaus. The park is characterized by dry deciduous forests and grasslands, and there are several water bodies within the park, including the Siliserh Lake.
4. Flora and Fauna
Sariska National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered and rare species. Some of the notable species found in the park are:
Mammals
The national park is home to several mammal species, including tigers, leopards, jungle cats, hyenas, wild boars, and sambar deer.
Birds
Sariska National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds found within the park. Some of the notable species include peafowl, grey partridge, sandgrouse, and golden-backed woodpecker.
Reptiles
Several species of reptiles, including snakes and lizards, are found within the national park. The park is home to several venomous snake species, including the Indian cobra, common krait, and Russell’s viper.
Insects
The park is also home to several insect species, including butterflies, moths, and beetles.
Trees and Plants
The park has a diverse range of plant species, including dhok, kadaya, and sal trees. The park is also home to several medicinal plants, including the arjun tree and the bael tree.
5. Tourism Activities
Sariska National Park offers several tourism activities for visitors, including:
Jeep Safari
Jeep safaris are the most popular way to explore the national park. The park offers several jeep safari options, including morning and evening safaris. These safaris take visitors through the different zones of the park, where they can spot several wildlife species, including tigers, leopards, and sambar deer. The jeep safaris are conducted by trained guides and are a great way to experience the wilderness of the park.
Wildlife Spotting
Apart from jeep safaris, visitors can also explore the park on foot or on horseback. This allows them to get up close and personal with the wildlife and experience the park’s natural beauty. The park also has several watchtowers from where visitors can spot wildlife and birds.
Trekking and Hiking
Sariska National Park is also a great place for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. The park has several trekking trails, which take visitors through the park’s valleys and plateaus. These treks offer stunning views of the park’s natural beauty and are a great way to explore the park’s flora and fauna.
Bird Watching
With over 200 species of birds, Sariska National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Visitors can spot several bird species, including the Indian eagle-owl, grey partridge, and sandgrouse. The park also has several water bodies where visitors can spot migratory birds during the winter months.
6. Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sariska National Park is from October to June. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and visitors can spot several wildlife and bird species. The park remains closed from July to September due to the monsoon season.
7. Accommodation and Facilities
Sariska National Park has several accommodation options, including forest rest houses and private resorts. The rest houses are managed by the Rajasthan Forest Department and offer basic facilities. Private resorts offer more comfortable accommodation options and have several facilities, including swimming pools, restaurants, and spas.
8. How to Reach
Sariska National Park is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is in Jaipur, which is approximately 110 kilometers away. Visitors can also reach the park by train, with the nearest railway station being in Alwar, which is approximately 35 kilometers away.
9. Tips for Visitors
Visitors should follow the park’s rules and regulations to ensure their safety and the safety of the wildlife. Visitors should not litter or disturb the wildlife and should avoid carrying plastic bags inside the park. They should also wear comfortable clothing and shoes and carry sufficient water and sunscreen.
Conclusion
Sariska National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s diverse flora and fauna and stunning natural beauty make it a paradise for visitors. With several tourism activities and accommodation options, Sariska National Park is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.
FAQs
- Is it safe to visit Sariska National Park?
- Yes, it is safe to visit Sariska National Park, provided visitors follow the park’s rules and regulations.
- What is the best time to visit Sariska National Park?
- The best time to visit Sariska National Park is from October to June.
- Can visitors spot tigers in Sariska National Park?
- Yes, visitors can spot tigers in Sariska National Park.
- What accommodation options are available in Sariska National Park?
- Sariska National Park has several accommodation options, including forest rest houses and private resorts.
- What tourism activities are available in Sariska National Park?
- Sariska National Park offers several tourism activities, including jeep safaris, wildlife spotting, trekking and hiking, and bird watching.
- How can visitors reach Sariska National Park?
- Sariska National Park is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is in Jaipur, and the nearest railway station is in Alwar.
- Are there any restrictions on photography in the park?
- Yes, visitors are required to obtain a photography permit from the Rajasthan Forest Department to take photographs inside the park.
- Can visitors camp inside the park?
- No, camping is not allowed inside the park. Visitors can stay at the forest rest houses or private resorts.
- Is there a limit on the number of visitors allowed inside the park?
- Yes, there is a limit on the number of visitors allowed inside the park at any given time to prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety of the wildlife.
- Can visitors hire a guide for the jeep safari?
- Yes, visitors can hire a guide for the jeep safari, which is recommended as the guides are trained and knowledgeable about the park’s flora and fauna.