Sujan Jawai Leopard Camp, Jawai Bandh

Jawai Leopard Camp is absolutely stunning – a camp of just 10 luxurious tents set in the heart of a breathtaking wilderness – empty except for the local tribespeople and the shy wild leopards that abound this area. The camp embraces a chic modern and superbly comfortable style, and delicious dinners are served around a crackling campfire. The service, facilities and food are outstanding and the place is one of our favourite stays in North India – and an entirely unique experience from the rest of Rajasthan.

On arrival, you are met at the camp’s Reception point with a refreshing cold drink while your luggage is transferred to the camp’s jeep, to drive the last 10/15 minutes to the camp across the rougher wilderness roads. A glass of chilled champagne and the welcoming staff greet your arrival at the camp itself whilst you take the time to settle in.

The glamorously designed tents are spacious, immaculate and supremely well-appointed and the ensuite spotless bathrooms are brilliant with double sinks and great rain showers. On the surrounding verandah deck, take the chance to update your travel journal at the large colonial style desk overlooking the open spaces and grasslands around your tent. For a bit of added luxury, the Royal Tented Suite comes with its own heated pool, private dining area, a private butler and your own private jeep for wilderness safaris.

Early morning and sunset wilderness safaris take you along the country roads through spectacular scenery, past local villages and over the most amazing rock formations, searching for the plentiful yet elusive leopards that roam wild in this area. Sightings are reasonably frequent thanks to the wonderful guides and drivers accompanying you.

During the day, and if you are a keen birdwatcher, a private jeep can be arranged to drive you to the Jawai Dam area for a couple of hours with one of the camp’s naturalists, to enjoy the variety of birdlife in this amazing setting. Then return to the camp for a light lunch before a rest and the evening safari. Alternatively, take a fascinating guided walk with the local Rabari tribesmen to explore the plains and landscapes around you. If you prefer just to chill out and enjoy this stunning location, the small decked pool overlooking the scenery is a delight to spend some time with a good book.

There is a small beauty spa facility with an excellent masseuse – great to relax after a safari drive – and if you wonder how the camp manages to produce such great food and wine choices, visit the fantastic kitchen garden and the unique plentifully filled wine chilling room, created by water trickling over a charcoal walled cabin – both astonishing given the remoteness of the area.

Wonderful breakfasts and lunches are served in the stylish open-air dining tent overlooking the grasslands and local hills – the menu is excellent and very varied – and the food is just delicious. Whilst pre dinner drinks are served altogether under the stars around a crackling bonfire, dinner tables are set up separately and can also be set up privately in more secluded locations around the camp – wildlife and weather permitting.

We wouldn’t hesitate in strongly recommending this unique experience – a great memory to hold long after you’ve left.

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