Jawai Bandh Leopard Conservation Reserve is a protected conservation reserve located in the Sumerpur tehsil of Pali district in the Indian state of Rajasthan.[1] Covering an area of 19.79km2 (7.64sqmi), it was formally notified on 23 February 2010 to safeguard the region’s unique cave-dwelling leopard population.[2][3][4]
It takes its name from the nearby Jawai Dam, an earthen-and-masonry structure on the Jawai River (a tributary of the Luni River), constructed in 1956–57 by the Rajasthan Water Resources Department. The reserve’s terrain consists of granite outcrops, caves, scrubland and river valleys, providing natural retreats for leopards and other fauna.[5][6]
Flora and fauna
Vegetation is dominated by dry deciduous and thorn forests, with species such as Ziziphus mauritiana (ber), Vachellia nilotica (kikar) and native grasses.[7] The reserve hosts one of India’s highest leopard densities, estimated at 50–60 individuals.[8] Other mammals include striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), jungle cat (Felis chaus), nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) and mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris). The artificial reservoir and adjacent wetlands attract migratory birds such as bar-headed goose (Anser indicus) and demoiselle crane (Grus virgo) during winter months.[9][10][11]
Cultural significance
Surrounding villages are home to the indigenous Rabari community,[12] who have coexisted with leopards for generations. Their traditional reverence for these big cats has helped minimise human–wildlife conflict in the region.[13][14][15][16][17]
Tourism
Jawai has become a premier destination for wildlife tourism and photography. Morning and evening jeep safaris offer high chances of leopard sightings.[18] Eco-friendly lodges and luxury camps operate around Bera village, blending local culture with sustainable hospitality.[19][20][21][22][23]
Conservation challenges
Key threats include illegal mining,[24] habitat encroachment, and wildlife casualties from the Delhi–Mumbai railway line that bisects the reserve. Ongoing monitoring and mitigation are overseen by the Rajasthan Forest Department.[25][26]
Accessibility
By road: State highways connect to Jodhpur and Udaipur.
By rail: Mori Bera Railway Station is the nearest broad-gauge stop.[1]
By air: Udaipur Airport lies approximately 140 km away.[1]
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