Located amongst the rugged Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan is Jawai Leopard Camp, an outstanding destination for leopard safaris in India.
Jawai is located in a less trafficked reserve than Ranthambore and Kanha and offers an intimate experience with elusive leopards lying on the large granite boulders along with crocodiles, birds and a thriving ecosystem.
It is important to know the best time to visit Jawai because wildlife activity differs by season and is directly affected by seasonal monsoon rains, extremely hot summer temperatures, and more temperate winter months.
Choosing the best window will help maximize your probability of seeing leopards and other wildlife in comfortable conditions.
Winter Wonderland: Peak Season (October - February)
Drawing safari fans from all over the world, this is the best season for Jawai leopard safaris.
With daytime temperatures ranging from 10 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius there are very few opportunities to even think about booking a safari during these months as little to no rainfall occurs during this time.
As they are most active during dawn and dusk (crepuscular), you can expect many leopard sightings as they venture out of their hiding spots on the rock ledges and will be hunting around water sources.
After the rains stop, the new growth dies off, consolidating the prey species like nilgai (blue bull), chital deer and wild boars into open areas, and in turn attracts predators.
As the temperatures drop the crocodiles will be seen sunning on riverbanks and there are over 200 bird species (such as migratory great hornbills & demoiselle cranes) in the air during this time.
Leopard sighting success rates exceed 80% with guides often identifying mother leopards with cubs.
Please plan early for your safari, as Resort in Jawai will be booked out.
Safaris can be run with little to no rain interruptions during this season.
Pre-Monsoon Adventures: March to June (Hot Yet Exciting)
With winter gone, summer quickly develops into suspenseful months in Jawai.
Although it can get quite hot (35-45 degrees Celsius), leopards can be seen easily during the day because they will hang under large boulders to escape the heat so that they don't move much during this time.
Prey animals tend to be all bunched up at water sources and predators can be seen chasing prey more during this time than any other time of year such as the cooler months than many would even think about.
Most people visit during the shoulder season because of the lower number of tourists, lower prices (20-30% lower), and excellent birdwatching opportunities with birds like the Indian roller and paradise flycatchers being very common.
A key point is to stay hydrated; use air-conditioned vehicles, and go on early morning/afternoon safaris if possible.
Although there will still be plenty of wildlife sightings, especially crocodiles, around rivers or riverbanks, it is recommended that those who do not mind tough conditions go during this time.
How to Get a Monsoon Experience in Jawai (July - September - Unpredictable)
With its lush, green landscape and flooded rivers creating lush 'paradise', Jawai experiences far fewer tourists with up to 50% discounting rates during this time of year and over 80% of the tourists leaving during the monsoon.
Although the leopards tend to go deeper into the hills for cover during the monsoon season (decreasing the sighting percentage to around 40%), the colour and vibrancy created by the rains provides plenty of opportunity to see the hyenas, sloth bears, and flamingos enjoying the wet weather.
Bird populations also expand greatly as many of the birds that breed locally are currently breeding.
In terms of the weather, there can be heavy rains resulting in the cancellation of safaris, and due to muddy roads, motor vehicle travel can be complicated; therefore, the monsoon season is for off-the-beaten-path adventurers instead of first-time visitors looking for big cats.
Travel Tips for Any Season
When booking a safari in Jawai, do so through a local approved operator using gyro-stabilized vehicles with trained naturalists.
You may want to couple your trip to Jawai with a trip to Kumbhalgarh Fort or Udai Bilas Palace to get a taste of the area's history along with your safari experience.
Be sure to pack your binoculars, sunscreen, and simple clothing that adheres to the cultural norms of the region.
One of the great things about Jawai is that it is so unpredictable.
If you are patient, it will pay off!
Conclusion
Jawai is an excellent location to go on a safari during the months of October through February when leopard sightings, weather conditions, and biodiversity are best.
The summer months provide a unique experience to watch spotted leopards as they bask upon large boulders in quiet areas, while the summer rains provide beautiful scenery for people willing to take the time to find a good place to do so.
Regardless of when you visit Jawai, you will remember your authentic wildlife experience for the rest of your life—so get ready, grab your gear, and let nature come to you.
