Sariska & Jhalana Escape from Delhi: One Day, Two Safaris

Sariska & Jhalana Escape from Delhi: One Day, Two Safaris

If you’re looking to pack a bit of adventure, wildlife, and heritage into a single day from Delhi, this Sariska & Jhalana tour offers a compelling mix. For around $123, you’ll get a taste of Rajasthan’s wilderness with two safaris—one in Sariska National Park and the other at Jhalana Leopard Reserve—plus a whirlwind tour of Jaipur’s famed palaces.

What we love about this experience? First, the early morning safari at Sariska offers a chance to see tigers, leopards, and other wildlife in the cool dawn hours—an ideal time for wildlife sightings and peaceful views of the sunrise over the Aravalli hills. Second, the combination of wildlife and cultural sights means you’ll not only enjoy the thrill of spotting big cats but also absorb Jaipur’s architectural marvels, like Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal.

A small caveat? The day is quite packed, and the timetable operates on tight schedules, so if you prefer a relaxed pace or more time in each spot, this might feel rushed. Still, for those eager to experience both wilderness and heritage in a single day, it’s a well-structured option.

This tour suits travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive Rajasthan experience—wildlife enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone curious to see a different side of India outside Delhi’s urban landscape.

Key Points

Early Start: The tour kicks off at 2:00 AM, making it perfect for travelers who don’t mind an early rise.
Two Safaris in One Day: You’ll visit Sariska National Park for a morning safari and Jhalana Reserve for an evening leopard hunt—covering a good range of Rajasthan’s wildlife.
Cultural Highlights: Jaipur’s iconic palaces—Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal—are included, offering a glimpse into royal architecture.
Private, Comfortable Transport: The tour uses AC vehicles for a stress-free journey, with a dedicated guide for personalized insights.
Flexible Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours before—ideal for flexible travel plans.
Group Size: As a private tour, you’ll travel in a small, tailored group, ensuring more personal attention and less waiting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown: What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Early: The Dawn of Adventure

Our day begins at 2:00 AM, when a friendly representative picks us up from our hotel in Delhi. The early hour might be a bit of a shock, but it’s worth it to beat the city traffic and arrive at Sariska in time for the first safari. The private AC vehicle ensures comfort, and with only your group on board, the atmosphere is relaxed.

Sariska Safari: Wildlife in Action

Arriving at Sariska National Park around 6:30 AM, we go straight into the thick of it. The safari lasts about 2.5 hours, with the goal of catching glimpses of tigers, leopards, deer, and various bird species. The sunrise over the Aravalli hills adds a touch of magic—watching the light filter through the trees as animals stir in the cool morning air.

Our guide, Rajesh, was eager to share his knowledge, pointing out signs of wildlife and helping us understand the park’s ecosystem. While tiger sightings are never guaranteed, the park’s management makes an effort to select the best zones for viewing, increasing our chances. Several reviews mention the thrill of spotting a leopard or deer, making the early start well worth it for wildlife fans.

Transition to Jaipur: A Scenic Drive

Exiting Sariska around 10:30 AM, we set off for Jaipur. The 2.5-hour journey takes us through Rajasthan’s rugged landscape, dotted with villages, hills, and open fields—an authentic glimpse of local life.

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Jaipur’s Heritage Highlights: Jal Mahal & Hawa Mahal

By 1:00 PM, we’re in Jaipur, starting with a visit to Jal Mahal, a palace floating in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. The view of the palace reflected in the water is striking, especially as the afternoon light hits it. Our guide, Meena, explained its history and the efforts to preserve it, adding context to this stunning sight.

Next, we stop at Hawa Mahal, famously called the Palace of Winds, with its honeycomb façade of 953 windows. We get a quick photo stop and a guided tour of its upper levels—an architectural marvel designed for royal women to observe street festivals unseen.

Lunch: Rajasthani Flavors

At a local restaurant, we indulge in traditional dishes like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and fresh rotis. The meal is a highlight, offering authentic flavors at a reasonable price, which adds good value to the tour.

Jhalana Leopard Safari: The Nighttime Wildlife

By 3:00 PM, we travel to Jhalana Leopard Reserve, about a 30-minute drive from Jaipur city center. After a brief briefing, we climb into a gypsy vehicle for a 2.5-hour safari from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM.

The setting sun casts warm light over the forest as we look for leopards, spotted deer, blue bulls, and desert foxes. Over 200 bird species have also been spotted here, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Our naturalist guide, Sameer, was enthusiastic and knowledgeable, helping us spot the elusive cats and explaining their behaviors.

Many travelers quoted the thrill of spotting a leopard in its natural habitat, which is a rare and special experience. It’s the wild side of Jaipur that most travelers don’t get to see.

Return Journey: Reflection and Rest

After the safari, around 6:35 PM, we leave for Delhi. The drive back takes approximately 4.5 hours, giving us time to relax, chat, and reflect on the day’s adventures. Arriving back around 11:00 PM, we’re exhausted but enriched.

What Makes This Tour Worthwhile?

The value lies in the diverse experiences packed into a single day. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the opportunity to see big cats and other animals in their natural environment, especially with the guidance that increases your chances. The blend of heritage sites like Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal provides a cultural contrast that rounds out the day nicely, making this tour appealing to those who want a balanced taste of Rajasthan’s wilderness and architecture.

The private transport and dedicated guides ensure a comfortable, personalized experience, avoiding the chaos of large group tours. Plus, the option to reserve and pay later adds flexibility, which is helpful when you’re managing tight travel plans.

However, the intense schedule might not suit those seeking leisure or a slow-paced exploration. You’ll need to be prepared for early mornings and a full day of travel and sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience best suits adventurous travelers eager to fit in wildlife sightings, heritage visits, and scenic drives in a single day. It’s perfect if you’re in Delhi and want to experience Rajasthan without spending several days on the road. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the safaris, while history and architecture buffs will enjoy the Jaipur stops.

If you’re after a relaxed holiday with plenty of time at each site, this might feel rushed. But if you’re okay with a packed itinerary and want a snapshot of Rajasthan’s wildlife and royal splendors, it’s a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, this tour can be suitable for children, especially those interested in wildlife and history. However, keep in mind the early start and long day of travel.

What should I wear for the safaris?
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing, and bring a hat and sunglasses. It’s advisable to dress in neutral colors to avoid startling animals.

Are meals included?
Lunch at a local restaurant is included, offering authentic Rajasthani dishes. Snacks and water are recommended for the day.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so you’ll travel with just your group, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the safari wildlife sighting guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on animal movements, but the guides do their best to increase your chances.

What language are guides available in?
Guides are available in English, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

In essence, this tour is a well-structured, action-packed day that balances wildlife encounters with Jaipur’s royal sights. It’s especially suited for those short on time but eager to see a slice of Rajasthan’s wilderness and heritage in one go. Expect early mornings, scenic drives, and plenty of memorable moments with wildlife and history. Whether you’re a nature lover or a cultural explorer, this experience offers a compelling way to deepen your understanding of India’s diverse landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: