While it’s always nice to discover new places, it is especially nice to see new destinations emerging as well. Although tiger safaris in India have been around for ages with a rich choice of national parks and tiger sanctuaries all over India, leopard safaris are relatively few.
Jawai, an area in Rajasthan that gets its name from the Jawai river and Jawai Dam, has the highest density of leopards in India. The sparse and rugged terrain makes it a uniquely beautiful destination, where one is literally driving off the road and within the natural habitat of these beautiful spotted cats.
Hotel
Framed by the majestic Aravalli Range, WelcomHeritage Cheetahgarh Resort and Spa brings together wild forest charm, immersive local culture, exciting wildlife and inviting luxury. Stylishly built and designed, it is a passion project of first-time hoteliers who fell in love with the terrain during their multiple visits to Bera.
Located at a comfortable 2.5/3-hour drive from Udaipur and Jodhpur, respectively, it is a lovely resort that gives you an inimitable experience along with all the comforts that you’d want on a holiday – plush accommodation, delicious dining options and a spa for rejuvenation. It is spread over 20 acres and even has a scenic lake within the property premises. While it is absolutely safe from the local wildlife, it is not surprising to spot a leopard or two on the surrounding granite boulders or near the lake.
An added plus for a resort specialising in an experience in the wild is the team of naturalists and wildlife trackers. The naturalist, Dushyant Singh is very knowledgeable about the leopard, birds, flora and also local stories and legends. General manager, Karan Bakshi, ensures that guests get a real feel of the area through the experiences that he has specially curated, both within and outside the property.
Room
Unlike other properties in this area, WelcomHeritage Cheetahgarh offers a choice of luxury tents as well as lake view chalets. Comprising 20 lavish rooms, chalets and tents, this resort boasts the highest inventory too. The chalets are spacious, offer plenty of natural light and view of the surrounding landscape with huge picture windows on either side.
However, the tents are more luxurious. With two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a sitting area, plus a private sit out, each tent is ideal for a family of four, or four adult guests. Air conditioning is on point – an important factor since it can get very hot in the summer and equally cold during winter.
Food and drink
There are multiple dining options at the resort. The Rotela Café offers a wide variety of cuisines – we particularly enjoyed the local Rajasthani breads and meats. Jawai Under The Sky is a rustic quaint setup with delicious wood fired pizzas and kebabs served at the granite rock with a panoramic view of the lake. This is also the spot for taking in a beautiful sunset.
Destination dining is offered to all guests, at an additional charge. We’d highly recommend you to try the different locations where the team sets up a lavish meal with fine service. While we enjoyed one dinner by the lake under a full moon, breakfast was organised by the bank of the Jawai Dam just as the sun was rising. The view of this sunrise, after an early morning safari is one that we’ll remember for a long time.
Insider tip: The chefs cater to special dining requests too. The simple, hearty chicken stew that was cooked for us with local red chillies was packed with flavour and superlative in its rustic appeal.
To do
Immersive experiences and activities have been thoughtfully crafted to capture the true spirit of the surrounding nature – from thrilling leopard safaris to discovering the region’s astounding flora and fauna, crocodile and bird spotting in the tranquil lake within the property to the adrenaline rush of rock climbing, trekking, cycling and archery, there’s plenty of choice.
The resort also encourages a taste of local culture with guided village safaris to learn more about the ethnic Rabari tribe as well as temple visits for stories into the spiritual beliefs and legends.
Bera is such a unique destination – the natural habitat of the leopard is amidst villages and private land. There is no forest reserve or sanctuary – just the villagers and the spotted cats living in harmony. According to local lore, the shepherds are nomads from the Himalayas. They worshipped lord Shiva who always donned a leopard skin. Even now they consider leopards to be representatives of lord Shiva. In fact, even when the leopards prey on village goats and dogs, the shepherds consider it an offering to the god.
In a nutshell
No amount of words or pictures can do justice to the experience of being at WelcomHeritage Cheetahgarh. As soon as you reach the resort you’ll feel an inimitable connect to the rugged land that is home to the gorgeous spotted cats.
WelcomHeritage Cheetahgarh Resort and Spa is an ideal choice for those looking at a relaxing, yet enthralling, break from the mundane chaos of urban life, romantic getaways, intimate family and friends’ reunions, solo and all-women holidays or for those interested in exploring Bera’s fascinating wilderness and culture whilst being immersed in ultimate luxury.
Factbox
Address: Circle, Rotela Lake, Varawal, Bera, Rajasthan 306126, India
Phone: +91 97111 19344
Website: welcomheritagehotels.in
