Sariska vs Ranthambore: Which Tiger Reserve Is Better for Your Safari Adventure?
Rajasthan is home to two of India’s most famous tiger reserves—Sariska National Park and Ranthambore Tiger Reserve. While both offer thrilling safari experiences, each has its own charm, advantages, and limitations. If you’re torn between Sariska vs Ranthambore for your next wildlife trip, this guide will help you decide!
Location & Accessibility
Sariska National Park
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Located in Alwar district, ~107 km from Jaipur
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~200 km from Delhi – perfect for weekend getaways
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Closest airport: Jaipur International Airport
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Closest railway: Alwar Junction
Ranthambore Tiger Reserve
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Located in Sawai Madhopur, ~160 km from Jaipur
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~380 km from Delhi – requires longer travel time
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Closest airport: Jaipur
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Closest railway: Sawai Madhopur Junction (well connected)
Verdict: Sariska wins on accessibility—ideal for short trips from Jaipur or Delhi.
Tiger Sightings & Wildlife Experience
Sariska
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Home to ~20 tigers
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Other wildlife: leopards, hyenas, jackals, nilgai, sambar, peacocks
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Dense forests, rocky terrain
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Tiger sightings are possible but not guaranteed
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Less crowded = peaceful safari
Ranthambore
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Over 70 tigers
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High tiger visibility, especially in zones 1–6
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Also features leopards, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, and rich birdlife
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Iconic Ranthambore Fort inside the reserve
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Busier, more commercialized
Verdict: Ranthambore wins for tiger sightings and broader wildlife encounters.
Safari Types & Costs
| Feature | Sariska | Ranthambore |
|---|---|---|
| Safari Zones | Core + Buffer (Tehla Gate, Sariska Gate) | 10 Zones (1–6 best for tigers) |
| Vehicle Types | Jeep (6-seater), Canter (20-seater) | Jeep, Canter |
| Safari Cost (approx) | ₹750–₹1,699 per person | ₹1,200–₹2,200 per person |
| Booking Options | Online + On-spot | Mostly online; on-spot rare |
Verdict: Sariska is more budget-friendly and easier to book on short notice.
Best Time to Visit
Both parks are open from October to June and closed during monsoon (July–Sept).
Sariska Best Time:
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October to March (cooler weather, good visibility)
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Summer (Apr–Jun): High chances of spotting tigers near waterholes
Ranthambore Best Time:
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November to April (pleasant weather + good sightings)
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May–June: Dry season = frequent tiger sightings, but very hot
Verdict: Draw – both reserves offer good seasonal windows.
Accommodation & Crowd
Sariska
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Fewer but scenic resorts (Utsav Camp, Trees & Tigers, Jungle Camp)
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Less tourist traffic = peaceful experience
Ranthambore
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Wide range of hotels (budget to luxury)
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High tourist volume, especially in peak season
Verdict: Sariska is ideal for solitude seekers. Ranthambore suits tourists who enjoy vibrant travel scenes.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
| Criteria | Winner |
|---|---|
| Accessibility | Sariska |
| Tiger Sightings | Ranthambore |
| Budget-Friendly | Sariska |
| Accommodation Options | Ranthambore |
| Peace & Privacy | Sariska |
| Variety of Wildlife | Ranthambore |
Choose Sariska if:
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You’re on a short trip from Delhi/Jaipur
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Prefer quieter, budget-friendly safaris
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Are okay with fewer tiger sightings
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Want a one-day or weekend getaway
Choose Ranthambore if:
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Tiger sightings are your top priority
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You want a more premium safari experience
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You have 2–3 days for travel
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You’re traveling with kids or in groups
Best Tiger Reserves India
Indian National Parks
Rajasthan Travel Guide
Ranthambore Safari
Ranthambore Tiger Reserve
Safari Booking Tips
Sariska National Park
Sariska Safari
Sariska vs Ranthambore
tiger safari Rajasthan
Wildlife Tourism
