Jawai
The Land of Leopards
Surreal rocky wilderness of the desert where leopards coexist and roam free with Rabari herders great opportunity for raw coexistence, epic photography, and soulful stillness.
Safari Timings
Jawai has flexible timings as it is not governed under strict tiger reserve rules. Safaris are mostly guided by local trackers.
General Timings:
- Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM
- Evening Safari: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
(Varies slightly with season)
Jawai Leopard Reserve
Situated in Rajasthan’s Pali district, the landscape of Jawai is one of a kind, with dramatic granite hills and an open rocky landscape unlike any other reserve. Jawai does not have the traditional dense forest area we expect from a reserve. Instead, Jawai is rocky terrain interspersed with scrub and caves. The balance of leopards and the pastoral lifestyle of the Rabari Community allow for peak populations of leopards in the Jawai area.
Jawai is not about the jungle, but rather about coexistence, stillness and perhaps the greatest photographic theatre on the planet. It is one of the few places on earth where large cats are somewhat free-roaming in human inhabited land, with minimal conflict.
The Vegetation:
The vegetation of Jawai is mostly scrub and grassland with acacia, cactus, flowers, etc, lightly scattered. The sparse vegetation and rocky outcrops provide some advantage for spotting and tracking leopards as vegetation does not obstruct views in Jawai.
The Fauna:
The predators are the main attraction, and although there will always be uncertainty about leopard sightings, chances of seeing leopards here are quite high. Besides, there are hyenas, jungle cats, Indian fox, sloth bear, crocodiles (in Jawai dam), and porcupine too. Death is uncommon in Jawai, so anthropomorphic processes do not exist for residents and wildlife, an incredibly unique experience at the reserve in contrast to other places.
Avifauna (Birds):
Jawai is a bird watching hotspot with over 200 species. During the winter months, migratory birds like flamingos, bar-headed geese and cranes congregate at the Jawai dam. Eagles, vultures, kingfishers and owls can be seen at various times of the year.
What to do
Leopard Safaris:
Conducted in custom open 4x4s, with experienced trackers who are knowledgeable in leopard movements.
Village Walks:
Meet Rabari herders and understand their day-to-day life along with cultural and spiritual connection to the land and leopards.
Birdwatching:
Enjoy quiet mornings beside the Jawai Dam observing flamingos and migratory birds.
Granite Trail hikes:
Hike to viewpoints and caves to take photographs or simply experience the surreal landscape.
Jawai is not simply a destination. It is a way of living with nature. It is perfectly suited for those who want a wildlife experience without the traditional confines of reserves.
Apoorva Jadon