eBlogzilla
Sariska is located in Alwar deistrict of Rajasthan, and is famous for its "missing" tigers in the tiger resort. Its a 200 Km drive from Delhi, through Gurgaon. One has to be careful not overshooting the critical left turn getting off from the flyover on NH8. The signage is missing as of now and its advisable to get your directions before you get on to the highway in Gurgaon. Remember you do not have to cross Gurgaon!
Sariska like all other forest reserves is out of bounds during India Monsoon season, i.e. June to September. So if you plan to visit during these months, there is an alternative available. A small 15 Km drive off the highway takes you to pictursque Chilli lake in Alwar. Remember to drive straight up to the Rajasthan government run hotel on top of the hill. Don't be taken in by the crowds and local shopkeepers who insist you have reached, the lake, and what is on offer here is edge of the lake and a walk across the barrage. Local transport parks here, and humdrum are restrained. The awkwardly closed gates of Rajasthant tourist department run hotel do not really add to the invitation and the imposing structure of the erstwhile summer palace keeps the public at bay. You have to honk and glare to have the gates open, and after driving in and parking, you will be approached by the attendadnt for parking fee which is adjusted against your bills should you choose to stay or use the restaurant.
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Once on top the open terrace presents a 270 degree view of the vast expanse of the lake. The sight is a sheer delight. I went crazy with my Sony DSLR alpha 100. Even the wide angle can not take in the full view. Cool breeze and interplay of sun and shade with dancing clouds above, make for a very rejuvnating experience. Enjoy.
The tower located in the middle of the lake belongs to the canal department of the state government. It makes for an enigmatic sight.
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There is an option of boating as well. Sad part is the laid back un enthusiastic attitude of the staff. There is very little punch and boating is off more often than it is on. So bide by your luck !!
The drive from here to Sarisk reserve presents some very pleasing sights. Sample these ...
Go BlogZ
The green stretches hide a rivulet that runs along the road.
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The majestic entrance to the Sariska National Park.
The board announcing the schedule. There is restricted entrance up to a temple located inside the reserve on Tuesday and Saturday.
If you have just one day on your schedule, drive back to Delhi. Else drive on to Bharatpur, that is 120 Km away. Stay the night, visit the bird sanctuary in the morning, and drive on to Sikri that is about 55 29 Km away. Spend 3 to 4 hours there and then drive another 30 km to reach Agra. Visit the fort, and then drive on to the Taj by 3 PM when it opens againg after a recess of two hours every afternoon. Delhi is just 200 km and a comfortable 3 and half hour away. So you would be back just in time !!
I leave you with some more images of the way....
Here is the pick of the day. Beleive me we didn't start this fire !!! It was already burning .... so long.
eBlogzilla
Sariska is located in Alwar deistrict of Rajasthan, and is famous for its "missing" tigers in the tiger resort. Its a 200 Km drive from Delhi, through Gurgaon. One has to be careful not overshooting the critical left turn getting off from the flyover on NH8. The signage is missing as of now and its advisable to get your directions before you get on to the highway in Gurgaon. Remember you do not have to cross Gurgaon!
Sariska like all other forest reserves is out of bounds during India Monsoon season, i.e. June to September. So if you plan to visit during these months, there is an alternative available. A small 15 Km drive off the highway takes you to pictursque Chilli lake in Alwar. Remember to drive straight up to the Rajasthan government run hotel on top of the hill. Don't be taken in by the crowds and local shopkeepers who insist you have reached, the lake, and what is on offer here is edge of the lake and a walk across the barrage. Local transport parks here, and humdrum are restrained. The awkwardly closed gates of Rajasthant tourist department run hotel do not really add to the invitation and the imposing structure of the erstwhile summer palace keeps the public at bay. You have to honk and glare to have the gates open, and after driving in and parking, you will be approached by the attendadnt for parking fee which is adjusted against your bills should you choose to stay or use the restaurant.
Go BlogZ
Once on top the open terrace presents a 270 degree view of the vast expanse of the lake. The sight is a sheer delight. I went crazy with my Sony DSLR alpha 100. Even the wide angle can not take in the full view. Cool breeze and interplay of sun and shade with dancing clouds above, make for a very rejuvnating experience. Enjoy.
The tower located in the middle of the lake belongs to the canal department of the state government. It makes for an enigmatic sight.
Go BlogZ
There is an option of boating as well. Sad part is the laid back un enthusiastic attitude of the staff. There is very little punch and boating is off more often than it is on. So bide by your luck !!
The drive from here to Sarisk reserve presents some very pleasing sights. Sample these ...
Go BlogZ
The green stretches hide a rivulet that runs along the road.
Go BlogZ
The majestic entrance to the Sariska National Park.
The board announcing the schedule. There is restricted entrance up to a temple located inside the reserve on Tuesday and Saturday.
If you have just one day on your schedule, drive back to Delhi. Else drive on to Bharatpur, that is 120 Km away. Stay the night, visit the bird sanctuary in the morning, and drive on to Sikri that is about 55 29 Km away. Spend 3 to 4 hours there and then drive another 30 km to reach Agra. Visit the fort, and then drive on to the Taj by 3 PM when it opens againg after a recess of two hours every afternoon. Delhi is just 200 km and a comfortable 3 and half hour away. So you would be back just in time !!
I leave you with some more images of the way....
Here is the pick of the day. Beleive me we didn't start this fire !!! It was already burning .... so long.
eBlogzilla
