Top Places to Visit in Sariska – Wildlife, Forts & Sacred Escapes in Rajasthan

Nestled in the lap of the Aravalli Hills, Sariska is one of Rajasthan’s most thrilling and diverse travel destinations — especially for those seeking wildlife, spirituality, and offbeat heritage. While Jaipur and Ranthambore may be more popular, Sariska offers an authentic, uncrowded, and immersive experience, perfect for foreign tourists wanting to escape the typical travel trail.

From spotting royal Bengal tigers in the Sariska Tiger Reserve to exploring haunted forts, ancient temples, and rural landscapes, Sariska’s charm lies in its contrasts — where raw nature meets centuries-old myths.

Where is Sariska?

• Located in Alwar district, Rajasthan
• Just 200 km from Delhi and 107 km from Jaipur
• Easily accessible by road and ideal for Golden Triangle detours

Why Foreign Tourists Love Sariska

• Sariska National Park offers jeep safaris, birdwatching, and forest lodges
• Historic ruins and palaces inside the forest make safaris doubly interesting
• Haunted forts like Bhangarh add a touch of mystery
• Offbeat location, fewer crowds than Ranthambore or Jim Corbett
• Great for a weekend wildlife getaway from Delhi or Jaipur

Top Places to Visit in Sariska for Foreign Travelers

1. Sariska Tiger Reserve

Wildlife Safaris | Royal Bengal Tigers | Eco-tourism

The main attraction of Sariska, this 881 sq. km forest is home to a variety of wildlife including the Bengal tiger, leopards, hyenas, jackals, sambar, chital, and over 200 bird species.

Safari Details:

• Morning and afternoon jeep safaris (book in advance)
• Zone-based access to forest areas (Zone 1–3 are best for sightings)
• Forest is dry deciduous — offering clear views and photo ops

Tip: Visit between October and March for best wildlife experience.

2. Pandupol Hanuman Temple

Mythological Significance | Sacred Waterfall | Trekking Trail

Located deep within the reserve, this ancient temple is associated with the Mahabharata and features a reclining Hanuman idol. Legend says Bhima fought Hanuman here.

Why Visit:

• Surreal drive through forest roads
• Chance to spot wildlife en route
• A peaceful spiritual stop amidst wilderness

Foreigners Appreciate: The blend of religion, myth, and wild nature.

3. Kankwari Fort

Historic Ruins | Forest Trek | Views of the Jungle Canopy

Inside the tiger reserve lies this 17th-century fort, built by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. He allegedly used it to imprison his brother Dara Shikoh.

What to Expect:

• Ruined battlements and crumbling walls
• Panoramic views over the forest canopy
• A quiet, eerie atmosphere ideal for photos and drone shots

Access: Only via safari or special permission from forest authorities.

4. Bhangarh Fort (Near Sariska)

India’s Most Haunted Fort | Mystery & Folklore | Architectural Ruins

Located about 45 km from Sariska, this 17th-century fort is India’s most haunted place, according to local lore.

Why It’s Fascinating:

• Forbidden to stay after sunset
• Stories of curses and dark magic
• Lush ruins and a scenic backdrop make it great for exploration

Photographer’s Tip: Early morning mist gives an eerie feel to your shots.

5. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Stone Temples | Forest Location | Offbeat & Ancient

Hidden in the Aravalli hills near Sariska, the Neelkanth temple complex consists of 200+ shrines dating back to the 6th–10th century.

What You’ll See:

• Ancient Jain and Hindu temples
• Carvings of gods, apsaras, and erotic motifs
• Peaceful natural surroundings ideal for quiet meditation

How to Reach: By road or trek through the forest.

6. Bhartrihari Temple

Spiritual Site | Cave Shrine | Ancient Pilgrimage

Built in honor of King Bhartrihari, a saint and poet, this hilltop temple attracts pilgrims from Rajasthan and beyond. Foreign tourists enjoy its tranquil vibe and hilltop vistas.

Highlights:

• Unique architecture and sacred cave
• Offers insight into local belief systems
• Often included in cultural tours of Sariska

7. Siliserh Lake & Palace

Riverside Palace | Boat Rides | Sunset Point

About 16 km from Sariska, the Siliserh Lake was once the private hunting ground of Alwar royals. The adjacent Siliserh Palace is now a heritage hotel and lakeside restaurant.

Perfect For:

• Boating and lakeside picnics
• Birdwatching (especially during winter)
• A romantic escape or lunch break from forest excursions

Other Interesting Places Near Sariska

• Alwar City Palace & Museum – for history buffs
• Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri – intricate cenotaph architecture
• Garbhaji Falls (Monsoon only) – hidden waterfall trek

Things to Do in Sariska Beyond Wildlife

1. Go on a Tiger Safari

Book a jeep safari through Zones 1 to 4. You may spot:

• Tigers (increasing population since relocation)
• Indian leopards
• Crocodiles
• Peacocks, eagles, vultures

Foreigners love the open-air thrill and the guides' local knowledge.

2. Temple Trail Trek

Visit Pandupol, Bhartrihari, and Neelkanth Mahadev temples as part of a cultural trek through forest roads and footpaths. These journeys offer:

• Natural immersion
• Rare interactions with tribal communities
• Meditative experiences

3. Picnic at Siliserh Lake

A tranquil spot to unwind with mountain views and water birds. Perfect for couples and families traveling through Rajasthan.

4. Photograph Forts in the Wild

Unlike other destinations, Sariska offers the unique chance to photograph ancient forts hidden within dense forest — especially Kankwari Fort and Bhangarh.

5. Stargazing

Sariska’s remote location means no light pollution — perfect for:

• Stargazing at night
• Nighttime time-lapse photography
• Astrophotography (especially in winter)

What to Eat in Sariska

While Sariska is not a foodie destination, many forest lodges and eco-resorts offer authentic Rajasthani thalis and home-style meals.

• Bajre ki roti & Lahsun chutney
• Ker Sangri sabzi
• Gatte ki sabzi
• Local buttermilk (chaach)

Luxury resorts may also serve continental meals for foreign guests.

Shopping in Sariska

There’s limited shopping within Sariska. However, en route or in Alwar, you can buy:

• Handcrafted juttis
• Rajasthani textiles
• Silver jewelry
• Papads, pickles, and sweets like Alwar ka mawa

Where to Stay in Sariska

Luxury Resorts:

• Sariska Palace – former royal hunting lodge
• Sterling Sariska – wildlife-themed resort
• V Resorts Sariska

Mid-range:

• Hotel Tiger Heaven
• Ankur Resort Sariska

Budget:

• Forest Rest Houses (book through forest dept.)
• Zostel Alwar – if you're combining with city stays

Best Time to Visit Sariska

• October to March – peak safari season, pleasant weather
• April to June – dry and hot, higher animal sightings but uncomfortable
• July to September – closed for monsoon

How to Reach Sariska

• By Road:
  • 3.5 hours from Delhi
  • 2.5 hours from Jaipur
  • Cabs or private cars are best
• By Train:
  • Nearest station: Alwar Railway Station (~36 km)
• By Air:
  • Jaipur International Airport is the closest major airport

Ideal Sariska Itinerary for Foreign Tourists

• Day 1: Arrive in Sariska → Evening safari → Dinner at resort
• Day 2: Morning safari → Visit Pandupol Hanuman Temple → Lunch → Siliserh Lake picnic
• Day 3: Kankwari Fort visit → Depart or continue to Alwar/Bhangarh/Jaipur