Nestled in Rajasthan’s Aravalli hills, Sariska Tiger Reserve offers four main safari zones across two entry gates, each delivering unique wildlife sightings, scenic views, cultural landmarks, and adventure experiences.

Sariska Gate (Main Entry: Zones 1–3)

Zone 1

Highlights: Pandupol Hanuman Temple, Kankwari Fort, natural water bodies like Kala Kuan and Karna Ka Bas .

Why Visit: Highest probability of spotting tigers—both spotted among local tiger codes like ST09/ST21—along with leopards, sambar deer, nilgai, langurs, and over 220 bird species .

Zone 2

Highlights: Dense forests, lakes, and more remote territories including Bramnath, Kalighati, and Kankwari routes .

Why Visit: Equally high tiger and leopard sightings, plus diverse mammals and avifauna .

Zone 3

Highlights: Mixed terrain through Halboal, Gairu ka Tiraha, Jalebi Chowk, and the famous tiger enclosure .

Why Visit: A gateway to offbeat wildlife viewing, frequent leopard and hyena sightings .

Tehla Gate (Zone 4)

Highlights: Rugged terrain, thick forests and waterholes such as Chamari ka Bera and Kalighati .

Why Visit: Less crowded, peaceful, and ideal for spotting leopards, jungle cats, wild boars, porcupines, and birdlife .

Safari Vehicles & Booking Info

Jeep Safari: 6-seater private or shared; Indian nationals ~₹1,650/share, full ~₹9,000 .

Canter Safari: 20-seater; ₹1,300/share or ₹20,500 full .

Booking: Online booking is essential via the Department of Forests; your vehicle and guide are assigned randomly to ensure fair zone distribution .

Safari Timings & Seasons

Open Season: October to June; closed July–September during monsoon (buffer zone around Pandupol remains open) .

Morning Safari: 06:30 – 10:00 (varies by season) .

Evening Safari: 14:30 – 18:00 (varies) .

Wildlife & Landscapes

Big Cats: Bengal tiger (codes ST-1 to ST-21+), leopard, jungle cat, caracal .

Other Mammals: Sloth bear, striped hyena, jackal, chital, sambar, nilgai, wild boar, langurs, mongoose .

Birdlife: Over 220 species including peafowl, serpent eagle, storks, woodpeckers .

Flora: Scrub-thorn and dry deciduous forests with dhok, salar, kadaya, dhak, ber, acacia; rocky hills and waterholes define the terrain .

Cultural & Scenic Stops

Pandupol Hanuman Temple (Zone 1): Ancient pilgrimage site tied to the Mahabharata Pandavas .

Kankwari Fort (Zone 2): 17th-century red sandstone fort of historical importance .

Conservation & Future Safari Expansion

Tiger Reintroduction: Successfully relocated tigers from Ranthambore in 2008–09; population rose to ~30 by 2023 .

Monsoon Debate: Stakeholders advocating selective opening during rainy months to support local economies and deter poaching .

New Zones Planned: Forest Department exploring new safari routes under NTCA norms to open more of the core area (up to 20%) .

Tips for Visitors

Tip Details

Best Time to Visit Winter (Oct–Feb): Cool and active wildlife. Summer (Mar–Jun): Drier terrain improves visibility for photographers .

Book Early Especially for Zones 1 & 2 during peak season.

Choose Your Gate Sariska Gate for tigers & culture; Tehla Gate for offbeat escapes.

Essentials Pack binoculars, camera, sunscreen, hat; mornings can be chilly so bring a warm layer.

Respect the Park Follow speed limits, stay in vehicle, maintain silence for the best sightings.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re after thrilling tiger sightings, scenic landscapes, or rich cultural landmarks, Sariska Tiger Reserve’s four safari zones offer something for every wildlife enthusiast. Safari Zone 1 and 2 (via Sariska Gate) remain the top choice for tiger encounters and iconic spots like Pandupol and Kankwari Fort. For a quieter, more intimate experience, Zone 3 and less-visited Zone 4 (via Tehla Gate) are hidden gems that deliver serenity and biodiversity in equal measure.

Plan your safari smartly, respect the ecosystem, and get ready to witness the wild heart of Rajasthan!