SARISKA NATIONAL PARK

Former hunting grounds of the Alwar maharajas, a nature reserve was created on this site in the 1950s. A national park since 1982, the State failed in its mission to protect the tigers, as the species had totally disappeared by 2005. Since then, a policy of reintroducing tigers from the neighboring Ranthambore National Park has been undertaken. Today, the reserve is home to around thirty tigers, but the villagers living in the reserve are hostile to this program. The relocation of 28 villages outside the park in order to protect the endangered species has provoked the ire of the expropriated inhabitants, who resent the danger of the presence of tigers in the vicinity of their homes.

The best time to try and spot a tiger is from March to June, when drought pushes them towards the rare watering holes. If you don't catch a glimpse, the reserve is home to many other animal species, including sambar, chital, wild boar, peacock and panther. Sariska is popular with safari enthusiasts, who enjoy watching and tracking animals with their cameras.

If you have time, don't miss a visit to Kankwari Fort, a ruin 22 km inside the park. You'll pass through several villages and admire the magnificent scenery. Allow 4 to 5 hours for the safari. Don't forget your bottled water. Legend has it that Aurangzeb had one of his brothers, a rival to the Mughal throne, imprisoned here.