How Sariska Lodge is redefining responsible travel and sustainable living

This newly-built lodge is perched on the edge of Rajasthan’s Sariska Tiger Reserve – that serves as a stellar example of wildlife conservation efforts in India

As World Nature Conservation Day (28 July) and International Tiger Day (29 July) approach, Sariska stands as a remarkable example of how mindful and consistent conservation efforts have helped shape its revival, and Sariska Lodge – a newly opened intimate retreat created with a vision to spotlight the inspirational story of Sariska, as well as champion responsible travel and sustainable living.

Today, Sariska is a success story in progress. Once home to a thriving wildlife reserve, it witnessed a near-extinction of its tiger population in early to mid 2000s due to a poaching crisis. Concerted efforts were made by the state forest authorities that worked tirelessly to reintroduce tigers into this region. Two decades hence, Sariska has become a shining example of India’s first successful tiger relocation initiative. Today, it is a sanctuary for 49 tigers – a number that continues to grow, reflecting the major win achieved by continuing endeavours of conservationists and the community together to help preserve this flourishing ecosystem.

For travellers, this truly means a chance to witness this stellar conservation comeback and observe Sariska’s rich biodiversity including birds, tigers, leopards, hyenas, herds of sambar deer, and much more.

With these momentous days dedicated to raising awareness about nature conservation and tiger protection, Sariska Lodge aims to redefine responsible travel and sustainable living – it’s proving that the path to conservation begins with conscious choices.

At the core, what sets Sariska Lodge apart is its founding team of visionaries – Mr. Anand Shekhawat and Mr. Puneet Jain. Anand is a veteran hotelier, conservationist, and sustainability-led entrepreneur. Puneet is a visionary entrepreneur and devoted wildlife enthusiast, recognised for his profound connection to nature and local communities.

Raised in a family deeply connected with forests, Anand’s passion for nature and conversation was seeded early in life. He spent his childhood immersed in the wilderness alongside his father – a legendary figure in tiger conservation. Mr. R.S. Shekhawat, former Director of Ranthambore National Park, played a pivotal role in shaping landmark reforms in India’s wildlife protection effort – from pioneering trap camera censuses to identifying tigers by their stripe patterns, and facilitating the relocation of villages from Sariska’s core zone to help tigers thrive. Many years ago, he acquired a barren stretch of land that would one day become Sariska Lodge – envisioned as a site for afforestation and a natural buffer for wildlife. Like his father, Anand shares a deep respect for the wild, an emotional bond with the local community, and a lifelong commitment to building with purpose.

In Rajasthan’s Alwar district, a 3-hour drive from Delhi, Sariska Lodge serves as an intimate, experiential luxury retreat spread across 15 acres, and features eleven thoughtfully designed suites, a dedicated dining area and restaurant, wellness centre, serene outdoor pool, lush native vegetation, flourishing organic garden, outdoor spots, and an in-house stable within the premises called – Ashwalaya.

Sariska Lodge took around 2.5 years to get fully built, and over 15,000 plants and trees as well as a variety of local species of grasses have been introduced into the premises to help improve the quality of the soil, water retention, and also enable a dynamic micro-ecosystem within the resort. Furthermore, at the lodge, the founders’ vision takes shape through – the unique architecture inspired by the region and materials sourced from the vicinity, nourishing cuisine that celebrates fresh seasonal ingredients and organic garden at the property, the hotel team with individuals from surrounding local areas that are trained to expertly manage different departments, and most significantly – the immersive guest experiences and perceptive service that echo the soul of Sariska.

Meticulously curated activities by the team resonate with travellers who want to experience the rich biodiversity, spell-binding landscapes and discover hidden spots through safaris, birdwatching trails, scenic forest drives, and visits to ancient temples. These aren’t rushed, checklist-driven experiences – they’re thoughtfully designed after careful consideration of the ecosystem, landscape and communities, and rooted in respect for the land. Evenings here often end under a star-studded sky, with conversations around a bonfire, where guests reflect on the fragility and beauty of the natural world.

In a time when “luxury” is often defined by excess, Sariska Lodge quietly reminds us that the most enriching experiences come from being close to nature.

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