Set deep in Jawai’s rugged landscape, guarded by an ancient rockface, this 18th-century haveli-turned-heritage guesthouse isn’t your average safari operator. Your utterly lovely hosts – brothers Paramveer and Veer Vinod Singh – have opened their ancestral home to share their love of the land and its native leopards. Their connection to and pride in the local community runs through the whole enterprise.
There are four comfortable rooms that open onto a tranquil courtyard, designed and decorated by Paramveer. After morning prayers in the family’s historic shrine, peaceful strolls through the local village, and cool dips in the pool, embark on the main event: a magical evening safari in the Aravelli Hills joined by one of the brothers. In Jawai, the safari jeeps are given free rein to roam around, through and over the stony outcrops, getting the best view they can, ensuring you never feel crowded or in a queue. The drivers work together to track the leopards and not get in each other's way. Days are dictated by the gentle rhythm of long-held traditions and punctuated by homecooked meals with local ingredients and refreshing drinks around the fire. Perfectly positioned as a convenient stopover between Udaipur and Jodhpur, you may come for the safaris, and they don’t disappoint, but you’ll want to stay for the soulful serenity and Rajputana hospitality.