Leopard resting on a large rock, partially hidden among dry bushes.

In the Wild Heart of Sariska: A Journey into the Unknown

Sneha Shah, Intern, Utsav Camp Sariska
 


Introduction: Where the Wild Things Roam

Sariska, nestled in the rugged terrains of Rajasthan, is famed not only for its tigers in the core region, but also for the first successful wild-to-wild tiger relocation. Equally enchanting is its buffer zone, home to elusive leopards and a host of other nocturnal wonders. For me, it became more than just a place on the map—it marked the beginning of a deeper connection with the wilderness.

Wildlife photographer standing on a rocky hill capturing nature with a camera.

Stepping into the Wild: An Intern’s First Walk

Learning from the Experts
As an intern came from The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Vadodara, eager to learn the flora and fauna of Sariska, I had the privilege of working alongside passionate and knowledgeable naturalists from Utsav Camp SariskaMinaxi Buchiya and Mahipalsinh Chauhan. Their deep understanding of animal behaviour, especially of leopards, hyenas, golden jackals, and foxes, helped shape my understanding of the intricate web of life here.

First Encounter: Boulders and Mystery

My journey began with a walk amidst the ancient boulders—a surreal landscape of scattered rocks, thorny bushes, and hardy spiny prosopis. The sun was on its slow descent, casting long shadows that made everything feel both eerie and magical.
Birds darted across the sky, insects hummed their evening tunes, butterflies danced on invisible currents, and hares hopped through the underbrush—nature’s evening chorus had begun.

Aerial view of a rugged landscape with rocky outcrops and distant hills.
Leopard resting on a large rock, partially hidden among dry bushes.

The Leopard Moment: Silence, Then a Stir

With camera and binoculars in hand, we scanned the terrain, sweating and squinting under the fading light. And then... silence. Movement. A shape emerged.
There it was—a leopard, seated regally atop a broken rock, its rosettes shimmering faintly in the dusk. It turned its head slowly, as if curious about us. But in truth, we were the awestruck ones. That moment—my first sighting—stuck itself deeply into memory.

Disappearing into the Wilderness

After about 15 unforgettable minutes, the leopard rose and vanished into the dense thicket, leaving behind a mysterious silence. It felt like a quiet farewell, yet also a challenge—a wild whisper to keep searching, to delve deeper into the secrets of the jungle.

Evening Reflections: The Quiet Call of the Wild

As the sun dipped behind the rugged Murlipura hills, the forest softened. The bustling noises of the day faded, replaced by the rustle of dry leaves. A shy peacock retreated into the shadows of a tree. The air was tinged with stillness—a calm that wraps itself around you in ways words can't fully describe.

Leopard is sitting behind a rocky terrain with boulders and sparse trees in a dry forest setting.
Sunset over rolling hills and mountain silhouettes in the wilderness.

Conclusion: A Day Ends, But the Journey Continues

In the dim light of the village, where faces blur into silhouettes and the urban world feels miles away, I returned to the camp—tired, fulfilled, and hopeful. Every day here brings a new mystery, a new discovery. And as I continue this journey, I remain eager to unravel the hidden stories of Sariska’s wild heart. In no time I have completed my Internship smoothly with help of my mentors and got a add on to my knowledge. Throughout this period, I have gained valuable hands-on experience depending on my understanding. As I summarize my learning, I collated a report covering the necessity and importance of wild corridors.The detailed presentation is linked below: WILDLIFE CORRIDORS OF SARISKA TIGER RESERVE.

Other Blogs

An overview of a highway with single lanes on either side and a mountain in the background.

Weekend Getaways From Jaipur

When life gets busy, and you yearn for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Tehla in Alwar is one of the perfect weekend getaways in Rajasthan.

Read More

An image of camping site where a chair and table is placed near a lounger bed, and the sun is also setting at the horizon - Utsav Camp Sariska

A Dawn with Leopards

Experience serenity and wildlife at Utsav Camp Sariska, with an exclusive Boulder Sundowner amidst stunning boulders.

Read More

A leopard resting on a boulder while looking down as seen from below.

The Leopards of Sariska

Unveil the elusive leopards of Sariska. Enjoy thrilling safaris and sustainable luxury at Utsav Camp Sariska.

Read More

An overview of a peacock with its feathers open - Utsav Camp Sariska.

Wildlife Photography in Sariska

Perfect your wildlife animal photography in Sariska with expert tips on timing, composition, and gear.

Read More

Image of a entrance of Safari Gate Tehla with a canter and jeep in view - Utsav camp Sariska

The Role of Tehla in Sariska’s Conservation Legacy

Tehla enriches Sariska’s conservation legacy through eco-tourism and sustainability. Explore the Sariska National Park Safari with Utsav Camp Sariska.

Read More

An image of Neelkanth temple with a mountain backdrop and a clear sky

Places to Visit Sariska

Here are five must-visit places to visit around Sariska that go beyond the typical wildlife safari experience.

Read More

A close up shot of a tiger drinking water from a lake while crouching.

Sariska Tiger Reserve and National Park

Sariska offers an incredible opportunity to witness the majestic Royal Bengal tigers, with other fascinating creatures, in their natural habitat.

Read More

Picture of Jeep Safari captured in the day time.

Sariska Safari

A Sariska Safari is an adventure that promises excitement, serenity, and a chance to witness the wonders of nature up close.

Read More

Do not use (stock)

Weekend Gateway From Delhi

Sariska is perfect for quick getaways from Delhi, offering the right mix of adventure, wildlife, and tranquillity with a stay at Utsav Camp.

Read More

An image of a solitary vulture flying with a mountain in the background

Vultures of Sariska

Discover the diverse vulture species inhabiting Sariska, their ecological roles, and the environmental effects they bring.

Read More

A picture featuring a small bird resting on a plat in the day time

Deciduous Jungle of Sariska

The deciduous jungle of Sariska is home to a variety of trees and plants, each with significant medicinal and commercial value. Discover more about these remarkable species in this detailed guide.

Read More

An aerial image of a Kankwari Fort with the backdrop of mountains - Utsav Camp Sariska.

Mythological Importance of Sariska

Learn about the mythological significance of Sariska, including its temples, forts, and more, in this insightful blog.

Read More

A tiger standing in the wilderness with small vegetation around while looking into the camera.

Sariska Tiger Reserve

Uncover Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar, Rajasthan! Delve into its history, park timings, and more in this detailed blog.

Read More

A group of birds gathered near a lake

Avifauna of Utsav Camp Sariska, Around the Camp, and Nearby Wetlands

Explore the Avifauna of Utsav Camp Sariska, with diverse bird species around the camp and nearby wetlands, offering a birdwatcher's paradise and serene natural beauty.

Read More

A group of birds gathered near a lake

Migratory Birds of Sariska

Delve into the migratory birds of Sariska and discover their seasonal migration patterns in this insightful blog.

Read More

An image of the boulder near our property - Utsav Camp

Boulders of Tehla

Explore the enchanting world of Tehla's boulders, and its diverse flora and fauna, beautifully depicted in this detailed blog.

Read More

Camera trap image of an animal in the night time.

Camera Trap

Camera traps are used to record notable animal behaviour changes over a decade. Learn how we use them at Utsav Camp Sariska to monitor the wildlife surrounding us.

Read More

Hyena sniffing the ground near bushes on a hillside at dusk.

Hide and Seek with Hyena

Away from the labs of The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda1, into the wilderness of boulders, this was the first time I came out of my comfort zone and got an opportunity to work at Utsav Camp Sariska2 as an intern.

Read More

Woman in safari uniform using binoculars on a rural path with trees in the background

The Glowing Eyes

A thrilling morning in Sariska as glowing eyes in the dark lead to an unforgettable leopard encounter and wild insights.

Read More

Continue your booking