Sariska Palace, Alwar | Hotel, Timings, History

Sariska Palace, Alwar Overview

The grand Sariska Palace, built in 1892 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh of Alwar, is truly a sight for sore eyes. The opulent palace spreads across 120 acres of lush green landscapes, compelling the onlooker to fall in love with its grandeur. However, the main reason why the beauty of the palace is greatly multiplied is that it towers right on the edge of the Sariska National Park. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh built this marvel as a hunting lodge for his guests and himself. The picturesque view of an enormous palace with the backdrop of thick green forests is mesmerizing.

Sariska Palace is now open to tourists as a 5-star hotel. The resplendent palace turned hotel overlooks the national park providing a panoramic view of dense majestic forests. One wakes up to the soft and melodious chirping of several exotic species of birds. Spacious rooms, breathtaking views and generous hospitality; this is truly a one-stop destination to relieve all the stress and tension from our fast-paced lives.

History of Sariska Palace

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh built this palace as a hunting lodge primarily to welcome Duke of Connaught, son of Queen Victoria. Because of its proximity to the forest, the royals often had the privilege of spotting animals in the wild right from the comfort of their balconies! In fact, they occasionally hunted from their balconies itself.

Architecture of Sariska Palace

Sariska Palace is designed by a French architect and therefore, the architectural theme of the place a blend of French and Rajasthani styles making is unique. The walls of the palace are painted beige, which compliments the green landscapes around. There is no central dome, but rather the towers on the corners of the building have small domes. The interiors of the splendid palace have ornamental decor and paintings of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh and his family adorn the walls. From the grand doorways to the opulent arches, this beautiful palace smugly challenges even the slightest thought of replicating the marvel.

Jungle Safari at Sariska National Park

The Sariska National Park gives the wildlife enthusiast in all of us a chance to engage in the beauty of nature. The jeeps ride through the raw forest and give us an opportunity to spot animals in the wilderness, in their own natural habitat. Wild boars, Chitals, Rhesus monkeys, Leopards, Indian Grey Mongoose have made this national park their home.

The magnificent lake of Siliserh and the majestic Kanakwari Fort are both situated in the national park. Built in the 17th century on a sharp hilltop of Kankwari, this fort was used by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb to imprison his brother, Dara. At present, this fort provides a panoramic view of flying Egyptian vultures and eagles.

How To Reach Sariska Palace

Nearest railway stations to the palace are Alwar Railway Station which is 37 km away and is an approximate 60-minute drive. The Jaipur airport is the closest and is 120 km away, approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes by road.