Tehla now prime estate for tourism players in Sariska

Jaipur: Till a few years ago, Tehla range of Sariska Tiger Reserve was a poor cousin to the main gate. While Sariska gate, providing access to three zones, remains a favourite, Tehla having just one zone is claiming its space on the tourist map.
The region had a couple of properties (lodges, resorts, and hotels) a few years ago, but their count has raced to 17 now. There are 4-5 new properties under development. Land prices have risen 300% in the past 6-7 years. The new Delhi-Mumbai expressway is expected to lend an impetus to tourism in the region.
Luv Shekhawat, who runs a camp there since 2015, said, “Despite the tourism sector suffering due to Covid pandemic, there is a silver lining. It really came as a blessing for offbeat destinations. Tehla is a big beneficiary. Besides tourists from Delhi and NCR, we are now getting visitors from places like Mumbai and Ahmedabad.”
Tehla is not cheap. Room tariffs start from around Rs 10,000 and go up to Rs 25,000. The land has become expensive in the past 4-5 years.
Narendra Singh, owner of a forest retreat, said, “Land prices have increased by 300%. A bigha used to cost Rs 5-6 lakh 4-5 years ago. Now, the rates have increased to Rs 16-17 lakh. In fact, premier locations, which are in short supply now, fetch around Rs 25 lakh a bigha. The properties are smaller with 10-20 rooms. Room tariffs start from around Rs 10,000 and go up to Rs 25,000.”
The expressway has enhanced the lucrativeness of the destination. Singh said that people from NCR now take only three hours to reach here by the Delhi-Mumbai expressway.
Nestled in the Aravalli range, the 15 sqkm valley is a natural paradise with lush green grasslands, rich biodiversity and offers experiences like birdwatching, hiking, rock climbing, excursions to ancient temples and forts. Besides, the Neelkanth temple complex, built in 7th century, and haunted Bhangarh fort, which is 25 km away, are other attractions for tourists.
Shekhawat said that the destination has a lot of potential, but they are mindful of irresponsible tourism.
“We are very sensitive to the ecological concerns. Loudspeakers are a ‘no-no’. We have been trying to create awareness among our guests about these aspects,” said Shekhawat.