
Originally known as Mewat, Sariska has fascinating tales of
history behind its glorious present. The strategic location
of the state attracted numerous powers to start their legacy
here and hence the brave warriors of Mewat were always busy
in battles and wars in order to preserve their sovereignty.
The history of Sariska even dates back to the days of Mahabharata
when the Pandavas were believed to have taken shelter during
their exile. In the medieval age, the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb
imprisoned his elder brother Dara Shikoh in the Kankawadi Fort
in Sariska. You may also calculate the affluence of Sariska’s
rulers when you will visit the exquisite Jain and Hindu temples
built during 8th - 12th century.
Sariska was the personal hunting ground of the Alwar rulers
and in the early 20th century, the need to turn it into a protected
area was felt. Eventually after the initiatives taken by Maharaja
Jai Singh, in 1958 Sariska was declared as a wildlife sanctuary
and in 1979 it was elevated to the national park status and
became a part of the Project Tiger.