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Sariska National Park, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, is spread over an area of 800 sq km of which nearly 500 sq km constitute the core area. Initially the game reserve for the Maharajas of Alwar, Sariska was declared a national park in 1982, long after it was declared a wildlife sanctuary (1958) and a tiger reserve (1979).
The Aravali Hills, third in line to the majestic Himalayas, dominate Sariska National Park's landscape that is covered with rocks and boulders scattered amidst the arid shrubs and grasses, and dry deciduous forests. The narrow valleys and cliffs created by the Aravali Hills create the perfect habitat for many species of animals, birds and reptiles. Both the prey and the predator exist together in this unique arid eco-system.
Sariska National Park is home to many endangered members of the cat family - tigers, leopards, wild dogs, jungle cats, hyenas and jackals. The park in Rajasthan is also the abode of herbivores including chital, sambar, nilgai, chausingha, langur, rhesus monkey and wild boar.
The diverse wildlife at Sariska National Park is not limited to the hunting games between the carnivorous predator and the herbivorous prey. The bird population at Sariska is quite significant and distinct from the other members of the species dwelling in different regions of India and abroad. Some of the more prominent species that can be seen at the Sariska National Park include peafowls, grey partridge, sand grouse, tree pie and Indian horned owl.
Mornings and evenings are the best time to spot herds of animals that venture out from the security of the familiar landscape to quench their thirst at the many water holes spread through out Sariska National Park. Jeep safaris are the favorable way to tour the park and see its wildlife.
Though Sariska National Park is open all year round, the best time to visit the national park is between the months of October and April. Sariska National Park is easily accessible from Delhi and Jaipur (nearest airport). The nearest railway station is at Alwar, Rajasthan.
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