Hidden in the Pali region of Rajasthan, is a little secret which has slowly grown into one of the amazing wildlife places in India.
Jawai is a small area, characterized by granite hills, seasonal rivers, and rustic villages, offers a unique opportunity to see the leopards that live in proximity to the human population. Leopard safari Jawai Rajasthan is not just any other wildlife tour, it is a total immersion project that helps humans and wildlife coexist, and offers memories of a lifetime to view one of the most elusive creatures in the forest.
The Extraordinariness of Leopard Safari in Jawai:
In contrast to other Indian wildlife reserves that are found as dense forests, Jawai is a distinctive landscape where leopards have evolved around human settlements. Leopards are densely dispersed in the region, and it is estimated that there are more than 60 leopards in the region.
There is an amazing cordial relationship between these big cats and the surrounding Rabari community. Leopards, in this case, are not restricted to their reserves but are seen roaming freely around the villages as the villagers continue with their day-to-day activities.
This harmonious living is because the Rabari people regard and believe that the leopards are the Gods of the land.
Due to this cultural respect, there is a secure haven where leopards can hardly come into conflict with humans; which is why Jawai is the best place in the world to view these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat with little conflict.
The safari experience is a one-of-a-kind. Trained guides, who are members of the local community, use open jeeps to guide along the rocky terrain, through shepherd camps, and Jawai River.
You can observe a leopard sitting on the rocky point of a hill in broad daylight, walking around the openings of the caves, a great leopard checking his grounds with his head up on a hill-top-things that you can hardly see in any other part of the world.
The most appropriate season to visit Jawai Safari:
Leopard safari has much to be desired by timing your visit to Jawai. The area has three seasons each with varying benefits for wildlife enthusiasts.
The most appropriate time to visit Rajasthan is winter (October to March). The weather during these months is favorable, with the daytime temperature varying between 20 – 30 °C, making it comfortable for safari.
With the colder climate, leopards are more active during the day, and chances of seeing them are higher. Winter months are also associated with the visits of migrating birds near Jawai Dam, which is another dimension of the wildlife experience.
The heat does not negate the advantages of summer (April to June). When the temperatures are high (up to 40 °C) and higher, leopards are likely to be near water bodies, and their movements can be predicted.
Safaris in the early morning or late evening of this time of the year are very fruitful, but the visitors may find it problematic due to heat in the middle of the day. It is also characterized by sparse vegetation, therefore, providing an improved visibility on the landscape.
The off-season is called monsoon (July to September) because during this period, rains render some parts of the land inaccessible and increase the elusiveness of the leopards.
The scenery, however, turns into a green oasis of Paradise and the lower influx of tourists ensures that those who will risk the changing weather have a closer encounter.
Planning The Jawai Leopard Safari:
Accessibility: A successful leopard safari in the Jawai needs a bit of planning to maximize the experiences. Jawai is about 140 kilometers from Jodhpur, and 150 kilometers from Udaipur, so it can be reached from either of the two cities. The closest railway station is Falna, which is approximately 35 kilometers, and Jawai bandh station is also closer but has less connectivity. Majority of the visitors employ the services of private vehicles or hire taxis from their accommodation. The ride itself gives beautiful scenery of the countryside in Rajasthan.
Accommodation: Jawai has a variety of accommodations, including high-end tented camps and low-end guesthouses. Some of the high-end camps, such as the Jawai Leopard Camp and Thour Nature Resort have all-inclusive packages. These are well situated in areas of the best leopard habitat, with naturalists employed there. Make bookings early, particularly during the winter season.
Safari Arrangements: A standard safari takes three to four hours, both in morning and evening hours. Morning safaris, normally commencing early in the morning, are known to go around the time of sunrise; whereas evening safaris, which start in the late afternoon, are known to go round the time of the sunset. The individual jeeps are flexible, and have a more personalized service, though they are more expensive than the shared cars.
What to Carry: You should bring comfortable clothing in neutral colors, a good walking shoe, a good camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and a hat. Visitors in winter need to carry warm clothes in early mornings due to the chill and visitors in summer seasons require lots of water and cooling devices.
Conclusion:
A leopard safari in Jawai, is not only a wildlife watching adventure, but also a perception of an unbelievable conservation based on coexistence.
It is heartening and encouraging to witness these great predators coexisting harmoniously with people.
Jawai is sure to leave you with a lifetime memory, whether you are a photography lover, environment lover, or just a person interested in having a unique adventure.
Arrange a visit in winter time, prepare, and feel the enchantment of this wonderful landscape to touch your heart.