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In the Aravalli range which cuts across Rajasthan, a few
pockets of forest still survive. Sariska is one such. It
was part of the earstwhile princely state of Alwar whose
late Maharaja Jai Singh, was a keen shikari and his
favorite hunting ground was Sariska, which received
strict protection under his rule. In 1955 this forest
was declared a sanctuary and it bacame a tiger reserve
under Project Tiger in 1979.
This region has always been good Tiger country, and
though the forest is much smaller now than it used to
be, it remains a haven for them. In fact, tiger
sightings during daylight hours are uncommon but it
appears that they are increasing as human interference
decreases. Panther, Jungle Cat, Jackal and Hyena are
among the other carnivores of the forest. The best time to
visit this sanctuary is November to June.
The Siliserh Lake is on the edge of the tiger
reserve, just off the road between Sariska anad Alwar.
This road has considerable traffic and one is not likely
to see many animals when driving on it though it runs
through the sanctuary.
among the prey population are the Sambar, Chital, Nilgai,
Wild Boar, Hare and numerous Porcupine. The park is rich
in birdlife too. Common Pea fowl abound and gray
partridge, Quail, sand grouse, tree pie, white breasted
king fisher, golden backed woodpecker, crested serpent
eagle and great Indian horned owl are among the many
species found here.
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