Sariska

Sariska, also called Sariska National Park, is a protected area in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, India. Located in the Aravalli Range, the reserve spans a landscape of dry deciduous forest, rocky hills, and scrubland. The park is known for its role in tiger conservation and biodiversity conservation in western India.

Sariska was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1958 and was redesignated as a national park in 1982. It was later designated a tiger reserve under Project Tiger. By the mid-2000s, tigers in the park had disappeared due to poaching and habitat pressures. A tiger reintroduction program began in 2008 with individuals relocated from other reserves, and conservation efforts have focused on habitat restoration, anti-poaching, and community engagement.

The reserve supports a range of fauna including Bengal tiger as a key predator, Indian leopard, sambar, chital (spotted deer), nilgai, and wild boar. It is also a bird-rich area with species adapted to dry forest and scrub habitats. The landscape and biodiversity attract researchers, naturalists, and visitors, though core areas may have restricted access to protect wildlife.

Access and management: The park is managed by the Rajasthan Forest Department as part of the Sariska Tiger Reserve. It is accessible by road from Alwar and Jaipur, with the nearest rail head at Alwar and the nearest airport at Delhi or Jaipur. Tourism is regulated to minimize disturbance and support conservation.