The morning mist clung to the Aravalli hills as our jeep rumbled along the narrow dirt track leading into Sita Mata Wildlife Sanctuary. The air smelled of damp earth and wild mahua blossoms a scent that immediately told me this was no ordinary forest. Somewhere in these dense thickets legends whispered through the trees and rare creatures moved unseen. 

I had come to this little-known sanctuary is 124.2 km from Sterling Aravalli, Udaipur after hearing rumours of flying squirrels and forgotten temples. Unlike the crowded trails of Ranthambore or the touristy charm of Sariska Sita Mata felt untouched. The only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the distant call of a Malabar pied hornbill.  

The Sita Mata Wildlife Sanctuary is opened all week from 10:00 A.M to 6:00 P.M please note that time may vary and it has ticket fee as for adults it is 20/- per head, children up to 5 years is 10/- per head and for foreigners it is 80/- per head, with car entry it is 65/- and two-wheeler is 10/-, camera fee is 50 rupee while video camera fee is about 100 rupee. 

My local guide from the nearby village of Dhariawad walked ahead and his eyes scanning the canopy. He said that the squirrels come out at dusk but if we’re lucky we might see their nests. He pointed to a hollow in an ancient teak tree a perfect hiding spot for the elusive Indian Giant Flying Squirrel one of the sanctuary’s rarest residents.  

By late afternoon we set up near a cluster of bamboo groves where the local guide had last seen the flying squirrels. As the sun dipped below the treeline the forest came alive with new sounds cicadas humming, an owl’s low hoot, and then a soft rustling above us a shadow moved between the branches then, in one breathtaking moment a dark furry creature spread its patagium and soared gracefully to the next tree. The Indian Giant Flying Squirrel rare nocturnal and utterly mesmerizing. It happened so fast that I barely had time to raise my camera, but the sight was imprinted in my memory. 

The Temple in the Jungle 

We trekked deeper the path narrowing until we reached Deo Somnath Temple, a 1,500-year-old shrine hidden in the heart of the forest.  The temple stands as a remarkable testament to India’s rich spiritual heritage and architectural legacy. This 1500-year-old shrine continues to draw pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike not just for its religious significance but also as a stunning example of early medieval temple architecture in Rajasthan and for the temple’s ancient water (scared kund) reservoir believed to possess healing properties which adds to the site’s mystical charm. Pilgrims often perform rituals here before entering the main shrine. 

 The heart of the temple houses a centuries old Shiva Linga radiating an aura of profound spirituality. The dimly lit chamber with its weathered stone walls, creates an atmosphere of deep reverence. This assembly area features intricately carved pillars displaying floral motifs and faded deity figures a silent showcase of the artisans’ exceptional skill from a bygone era. 

The Deo Somnath Temple isn’t just a destination it’s a journey through time, art, and spirituality, offering modern travellers a rare glimpse into India’s glorious past while maintaining its sacred purpose in the present. 

After a day of trekking through the wilderness I returned to the warm hospitality of Sterling Aravalli. Their caring nature made all the difference whether it was the hot meal waiting after a long day or the comfortable bed that felt like a luxury or the staff’s genuine concern for my well-being. Traveling deep into the forest can be exhausting but knowing I had such a welcoming retreat to return to made the experience even more special. 

For every traveler who gives their all to the wild for them there is a Sterling Aravalli waiting to receive them where tired feet find solace and unforgettable days melt into peaceful nights. 

Book at Sterling Aravalli, the Wild to Royal Comfort 

Abhishek Singh 

Engineer