Imagine leaving Delhi after breakfast and three hours later, finding yourself surrounded by hills, forest, birdsong, and the occasional call of a peacock.
That is the kind of change that makes a weekend at Sariska feel special.
While most people know Sariska for its tiger reserve and wildlife safaris, the destination offers much more – beautiful Aravalli landscapes, historic spots, Rajasthani village life, local food, and plenty of opportunities to just slow down.
For travellers looking for a resort near Sariska Tiger Reserve that promises both comfort and experience, Chokhiwadi Forest Retreat is the option to choose.
Located in Ajabgarh, Alwar, this intimate 10-room forest retreat has a mix of African-style luxury tents, traditional mud villas and stone cottages with a multicuisine restaurant, natural Aravalli 360-degree views and unique experiences designed to make you want to stay.
And at approximately ₹4,500–₹7,500 per night, depending on the meal plan selected, it is an accessible way to experience a little bit of luxury in the Aravallis.
Why Stay Near Sariska Tiger Reserve?
A trip to Sariska can easily become a rushed checklist: drive from Delhi, do a safari, drive back home.
But Sariska deserves more time than that.
Staying back means you can soak in the forest and surrounding Aravallis without constantly watching the clock. You can go out for a morning safari and sightseeing, return for a leisurely lunch and dip in the pool, enjoy an unhurried afternoon by the poolside and then spend your evening stargazing.
And because Chokhiwadi is approximately 30 km from both Tehla and Thanagazi safari gates, it becomes a convenient base for guests who want to explore different parts of the Alwar region.
But there is another reason to stay near Sariska.
You get to experience what city life often makes us forget: quiet mornings.
At Chokhiwadi, the day can begin with birdsong and peacock calls rather than traffic horns and phone notifications. Jungle babblers, partridges and lapwings are your guests at bed tea
Chokhiwadi Forest Retreat — A Boutique Stay in the Aravallis
Chokhiwadi Forest Retreat is a 10-room boutique forest retreat in Ajabgarh, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan.
The property is surrounded by the Aravallis, with a 360-degree views of hills and forest from the retreat.
Rather than creating a conventional luxury resort, Chokhiwadi has been designed around a more earthy and experiential idea of hospitality.
Open your windows wide in the morning, and instead of a high-rise building or a busy road, all you see are hills, trees and forest.
Rooms & Accommodation at Chokhiwadi Forest Retreat
Chokhiwadi offers three accommodation styles, each with its own personality.
There are three distinctive accommodation categories:
- African-style luxury tents
- Mud villas
- Stone cottages
Each offers a different way of experiencing local culture and the surroundings
The mud villas, for example, take inspiration from traditional village homes. Their walls are decorated with handmade Mandana drawings, a traditional form of folk art that adds character and a strong sense of place. The core beliefs of drawing Mandana Paintings and art on the walls and floors by local women are to welcome divinity into the house and keep away from evil forces.
This is one of the things that makes Chokhiwadi different from a generic resort.
You don’t have to leave the property to experience Rajasthan’s art and culture. It is woven into the accommodation itself.
African-Style Luxury Tents
For guests who like the idea of being close to nature without compromising on comfort, the African-style luxury tents offer something different from a conventional hotel room.
They bring a touch of adventure to the stay while keeping the experience comfortable and relaxed.
The surrounding landscape becomes part of the experience, particularly in the early mornings and evenings, when you sit out on the netted patio overlooking the hills behind sipping your cup of tea.
Stone Cottages
The stone cottages offer another local experience using natural construction material and their understated design fits comfortably into the landscape, making them a good option for guests who prefer a hotel room with a traditional touch.
Across all three categories, the aim is the same: comfortable accommodation with a strong sense of local character and culture.
Amenities You Can Expect at Chokhiwadi
A nature retreat doesn’t need to overwhelm guests with dozens of facilities.
At Chokhiwadi, the focus is on the things that make a short break comfortable—and enjoyable.
Guests can make use of:
- A multi-cuisine à la carte restaurant
- Swimming pool
- Gym
- Unlimited Wi-Fi
- Board games
- Farm-to-table vegetables from an Organic garden
- Farm-fresh eggs
- Natural green outdoor spaces surrounded by local trees and vegetation
- Evening entertainment and curated experiences
The restaurant serves multi-cuisine food, giving guests the flexibility to enjoy meals of their choice at the property rather than having to drive out in search of food after a long day of sightseeing.
There is also a strong emphasis on fresh ingredients from an organic garden, and guests can enjoy farm-fresh eggs as part of the food experience.
For many travellers, this is an unexpected part of the holiday. You travel expecting the safari to be the highlight and end up with memories of the fresh food, slow evening conversations and the feeling of having no pressure of where you need to be. Chef specials, the local dal-bati-churma and inhouse fresh bakes are some of the items to try out while you are there.
Things to Do Near Sariska
One of the advantages of staying at Chokhiwadi is that you can combine the tiger safari with outings around Sariska
Here are some of the things you can do during your stay:
Go on a Wildlife Safari
A safari in Sariska Tiger Reserve is one of the main reasons people visit the region barring the monsoons, when the reserve is closed to public.
Because Tehla and Thanagazi gates are approximately equidistant from Chokhiwadi, guests can plan their safari and nearby sightseeing according to their choice. However, one must remember that tiger sightings are never guaranteed—and the variety of other wildlife is part of what makes the safari enjoyable.
Trek to Somsagar Lake
If you enjoy being outdoors, the trek to Somsagar Lake gives you a chance to experience the Aravallis up close. The hills, forest and sunrise make the journey itself part of an unforgettable experience.
The trek can take about 45 mins one way and is beginner friendly. A guide can accompany guests on payment. Do not forget to take your binoculars to spot unexpected guests.
Enjoy a Moonlight or Candle-Night Dinner
For couples or anyone celebrating a special occasion, dinner under the starry night sky can be one of the memorable moments of your stay.
Join a Karaoke Evening
A karaoke evening can be planned for guests who don’t want the day to end quietly.
It is informal, fun and particularly enjoyable when travelling with friends or family.
Watch a Movie Under the Stars
This will make you forget the multiplex for one night.
A movie night outdoors, under the night sky and away from the lights of the city, takes the familiar experience altogether to a completely different feel. This experience is dependant on the weather
Enjoy a Night-Drive
The night drive brings a completely different atmosphere to the Aravalli landscape.
Chokhiwadi’s night-drives allow guests to experience the surroundings and wildlife after sunset rather than retreating indoors as soon as dinner is over.
Places to Visit Near Sariska Tiger Reserve
If you are staying for two or three nights, there is enough around Sariska Tiger Reserve to keep you busy without making the trip exhausting.
Kankwari Fort
Set within the Sariska landscape, Kankwari Fort is history set in dramatic forest surroundings.
Pandupole Hanuman Temple
This is a popular religious destination within the Sariska Tiger Reserve, surrounded by the forest and hills. This is open to public on Saturday and Tuesday only
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
An ancient temple complex known for its historic architecture and intricate stone carvings.
Bhangarh Fort
Famous across the world for its ruins, haunted history and legends, Bhangarh fort makes an interesting excursion for travellers interested in history and architecture.
Alwar
If you have more time, we recommend exploring the historic city of Alwar with its palaces, forts, markets and local culture. Do not forget to visit the beautiful Siliserh Lake set amidst the Aravallis.
Best Time to Visit Sariska
For most travellers, October to March is the most comfortable time to visit Sariska.
The weather is cool, dry and pleasant, making it easier to enjoy safaris, sightseeing, trekking and outdoor activities.
For travellers coming from Delhi NCR, winter is also attractive for a long weekend.
The summer months can be hot, although they provide better wildlife-viewing opportunities near water holes.
The monsoons transform the Aravallis bringing greener surroundings and clouds kissing the verdant hills
Safari availability and forest regulations can change seasonally, so always check the latest information before planning a wildlife safari.
How to Reach Chokhiwadi Forest Retreat
One of the pleasant surprises about Chokhiwadi is how easily accessible it is from Delhi.
From Delhi NCR
The journey from Delhi to Chokhiwadi takes approximately 3 hours by road, depending on your starting point and traffic.
That makes it particularly attractive for people looking for a weekend getaway near Delhi NCR without having to spend half their weekend travelling.
You can leave Delhi in the morning and, within a few hours, you can have lunch surrounded by the Aravallis.
By Car
Driving is the easiest option for most guests, particularly if you plan to explore Sariska, Bhangarh, Alwar or other local attractions during your stay. You can take the Delhi Mumbai Expressway and branch off towards the Jaipur Bandikui Link Road to take the Manoharpur exit to the property
By Train
Alwar and Dausa are nearest major railway stations used by travellers visiting the region, followed by a road journey to Chokhiwadi.
By Air
Jaipur is the nearest major airport commonly used by visitors arriving by air, followed by a road journey to the property.
For a more detailed view, read: https://chokhiwadi.com/delhi-to-sariska-distance-route-travel-tips/
How Much Does a Luxury Stay Near Sariska Cost?
Luxury does not always have to have a five-figure room rate.
At Chokhiwadi Forest Retreat, accommodation typically ranges from approximately ₹4,500 to ₹7,500 per night, depending on the meal plan selected.
The exact price may vary according to:
- Accommodation category
- Meal plan
- Number of guests
- Season
- Weekday or weekend
- Special offers or experiences
Among resorts in Sariska, Chokhiwadi provides an attractive middle ground for travellers – comfortable and experiential but without the price tag of a high-end luxury wildlife lodge.
Why Chokhiwadi Forest Retreat Is Worth It
There are several places to stay around Sariska – so what makes Chokhiwadi different?
It is a combination of the little pleasures of life.
- Sleeping in an African style luxury tent
- waking up to birdsong instead of traffic.
- hearing a peacock call while having your morning tea.
- breakfast with farm-fresh eggs.
- Waking up to a traditional Mandana painting on the wall of your mud villa.
- Soaking in a 360-degree view of hills and forest.
And then, when the sun goes down, a candle-lit dinner, karaoke with friends or a movie under the stars completes your perfect day.
And because the journey from Delhi is only around three hours, you don’t need to take a long holiday to experience it. Just a weekend is good enough.
This is what the founders have to say “When we created Chokhiwadi, we did not want to build another resort where guests simply check in, sleep and leave. We wanted them to experience and enjoy the place just as we did…”
A Perfect 2-Night Sariska Weekend from Delhi
If you are planning a long weekend getaway near Delhi, two nights at Chokhiwadi gives you enough time to enjoy both the region and the property.
Day 1 — Delhi to Chokhiwadi
Leave Delhi in the morning and reach Chokhiwadi in approximately three hours.
Check in to your chosen African-style luxury tent, mud villa or stone cottage.
Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or exploring the property.
In the evening, choose a moonlight dinner, karaoke evening or night drive.
Day 2 — Sariska & the Outdoors
Plan your wildlife safari from either the Tehla or Thanagazi gate, depending on availability.
Return to Chokhiwadi and take some time to relax.
Enjoy your lunch at the multi-cuisine restaurant.
Later, depending on the season and conditions, explore the ruins of Bhangarh or trek towards Somsagar Lake.
End the day with a relaxed candle-light dinner and perhaps a movie night under the stars.
Day 3 — Slow Morning & Drive Home
Wake up to bed-tea and birdsong.
Have breakfast with fresh, farm-sourced ingredients.
Enjoy a last look at the hills and forest before checking out and heading back towards Delhi.
The point isn’t to see everything. It is to return home feeling like you actually had a break.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Chokhiwadi Forest Retreat near Sariska Tiger Reserve?
Chokhiwadi is located in Ajabgarh, Alwar, in the Sariska region and is approximately 30 km from the safari gates. Both Tehla and Thanagazi gates are approximately equidistant from the property.
Q. How far is Chokhiwadi from Delhi?
The journey from Delhi to Chokhiwadi is approximately 3 hours by road, depending on your starting location and traffic.
Q. What accommodation is available at Chokhiwadi?
Guests can choose from African-style luxury tents, mud villas and stone cottages.
Q. What makes the mud villas special?
The mud villas are inspired by traditional village-style mud houses and feature handmade Mandana drawings, giving them a distinctive local character.
Q. Do the rooms have views?
The property enjoys 360-degree views of the surrounding Aravalli hills and forest,
Q. Does Chokhiwadi have a restaurant?
Yes. Chokhiwadi has a multi-cuisine à la carte restaurant.
Q. Does Chokhiwadi offer Wi-Fi?
Yes. Unlimited Wi-Fi is available for guests.
Q. Does Chokhiwadi have a swimming pool?
Yes, guests can enjoy the property’s swimming pool.
Q. Is there a gym?
Yes. Chokhiwadi has a gym for guests who wish to work out during their stay.
Q. What food can guests expect?
Chokhiwadi serves multi-cuisine food, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. The property also has an organic garden and farm-fresh eggs.
Q. What are some things to do at Chokhiwadi?
Guests can enjoy a moonlight or candle-night dinner, karaoke evenings, movie nights under the stars, board games, a trek to Somsagar Lake, night drives, stargazing and other nature-orientated experiences.
Q. What are the best things to do near Sariska?
A wildlife safari, trekking, visiting historic sites and temples, exploring the surrounding countryside and enjoying local food are among the popular things to do near Sariska.
Q. What are the best places to visit near Sariska?
Sariska Tiger Reserve, Kankwari Fort, Pandupole Hanuman Temple, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Bhangarh Fort, Siliserh Lake, and Alwar are among the attractions worth considering.
Q. Is Chokhiwadi suitable for couples?
Yes. The quiet setting, scenic views and personalised experiences such as moonlight and candlelight dinners under the stars make it a good choice for couples.
Q. Is Chokhiwadi suitable for families?
Yes. Families can enjoy the swimming pool, board games, outdoor experiences, and the property’s proximity to Sariska’s attractions.
Q. How much does a stay at Chokhiwadi cost?
Rates generally range from ₹4,500 to ₹7,500 per night, depending on the chosen accommodation and meal plan selected.
Q. Is Sariska a good weekend getaway from Delhi?
Absolutely. With a road journey of approximately three hours from Delhi, Sariska is particularly convenient for a short weekend break.
Your Sariska Weekend Could Be More Than a Safari
You come for the wildlife, but stay for the experiences.
Wake up to birdsong and peacock calls. Have a breakfast made with farm-fresh ingredients. Take a walk through the hills. Spend an afternoon by the pool. Explore a nearby historical site. Sit down to a candle-lit dinner under the stars. Sing karaoke. Watch a favourite movie under the stars, pitch a tent, star gaze or take a night drive.
At Chokhiwadi Forest Retreat, the idea is to make the stay itself part of the holiday experience.
With its African-style luxury tents, mud villas and stone cottages, 360-degree hill and forest views, organic gardens, fresh food and nature-led experiences, Chokhiwadi offers a unique way to experience Sariska.
And at around three hours from Delhi, you don’t need a long holiday to do it.
All you need is a weekend, a longing for clean, fresh air and a reason to slow down.
Chokhiwadi Forest Retreat — your boutique escape in the Aravallis near Sariska.
