Jawai had been on our bucket list for a long time. We had read about its majestic leopards, rocky landscapes, and unique coexistence between humans and wildlife. After months of planning, our trip finally came true during the Dussehra holidays—the perfect time for an adventure away from the city chaos.
The Journey from Delhi to Jawai
We decided to travel by train from Delhi to Falna, the nearest railway station to Jawai, covering about 630 km in 10 hours. Our overnight journey was comfortable, and we reached Falna around 8 AM. From there, we took a private cab to Jawai (approximately ₹1,500-₹2,000 for the ride).
As we drove towards our destination, the landscape changed dramatically—plains gave way to rugged granite hills, and we spotted local Rabari herders in their traditional red turbans, guiding their camels and sheep. The excitement grew as we entered Jawai, where leopards roam freely among the villages.
Our Stay: A Luxurious Resort Amidst the Wilderness
Instead of camping, we opted for a resort stay for added comfort. We booked a two-night stay at a premium wildlife resort for about ₹8,000-₹12,000 per night, which included meals and safari experiences. Our resort blended luxury with nature—it had spacious cottages with traditional Rajasthani décor, an infinity pool overlooking the hills, and open-air dining under the stars.
The hospitality was top-notch, and the local staff attended to us in a very warm way. The resort also organized cultural evenings, where we watched folk performances and heard fascinating leopard stories from experienced trackers.
The Leopard Safari: Heart-Pounding Adventure
The next morning, we woke up before sunrise for the much-awaited leopard safari. At 5:30 AM, a sturdy 4×4 jeep picked us up, and we set off towards the Jawai hills. Unlike traditional wildlife parks, Jawai has no enclosures, meaning the leopards roam freely between the rocks and villages.
After about 45 minutes of tracking, we spotted our first leopard—a magnificent male resting on a boulder, blending seamlessly with the rocky terrain. Seeing such a powerful predator in the wild, just 50 meters away, was an experience we would never forget!
Besides leopards, we also saw:
Crocodiles basking in Jawai Bandh (dam)
Migratory birds like flamingos and cranes
Nilgai (blue bulls) grazing in the fields
The safari cost around ₹5,000-₹6,500 per jeep, accommodating up to 6 people.
Exploring Rabari Village: A Glimpse into Rural Rajasthan
After an exciting morning safari, we decided to explore a Rabari village nearby. The Rabari community, known for their distinctive red turbans and nomadic lifestyle, welcomed us warmly. We saw them tending to their livestock and preparing traditional food in clay ovens.
A kind family invited us for lunch, serving bajra roti with garlic chutney, buttermilk, and dal, all cooked on an open flame. The food was simple but delicious, and we enjoyed hearing about their age-old traditions and peaceful coexistence with the leopards.
Challenges and Safety Aspects
Jawai is generally safe for travelers, but here are a few challenges we faced:
- Limited Mobile Network – Only certain areas had good reception.
- Bumpy Terrain – Some safari trails were rough, making it a bit uncomfortable for those not used to off-roading.
- Temperature Swings – Days were warm, but evenings were chilly, so layering was essential.
Despite these small hurdles, the experience was completely worth it!
How Popular is Jawai?
Jawai is still a hidden gem compared to Ranthambore or Jim Corbett, but it is gaining popularity among wildlife photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Locals told us that many celebrities often visit as its not crowded and they get privacy at the same time a great experience. Its high leopard sighting chances (one of the best in India) and unique cultural blend make it an unmissable destination.
Final Thoughts – A Trip to Remember
As we boarded our train back to Delhi, we couldn’t stop revisiting the incredible memories—the thrill of seeing a wild leopard, the warmth of the villagers, and the peaceful nights in our luxury resort.
For anyone looking for wildlife, adventure, and a deep cultural experience, Jawai is the perfect getaway!
