Jawai

An approximate three-and-a-half-hour drive south of Jaipur, this elegant tented camp provides a lovely contrast to the many opulent palace hotels and forts that comprise most Rajasthan itineraries in addition to the option of seeing leopards in the wild.

• Cocktails around the camp fire
• The serene pool that sits on the edge of the camp, offering unobstructed views of the wilderness
• The Royal Tented Suite, which boasts a private heated swimming pool

A Relais and Château property, Jawai sits on the edge of the second largest reservoir in India. Blending serenely into the landscape of Anogeissus scrub, winding river beds and granite formations, the camp is the passion project of Delhi-based couple Jaisal and Anjali Singh, who also own properties in Ranthambhore and Jaisalmer under the Sujan hotel group.

Jawai’s nine tents are stylishly appointed with a mix of canvas, stainless steel and leather furnishings, and all tents feature en-suite bathrooms. Photographs of leopards—the animal for which the camp is known—adorn the walls and each tent has a private deck that provides unobstructed views of the surrounding wilderness. Each outdoor space is furnished with a writing table and seating area that begs one to sit and relax in the tranquil setting.

The camp offers two game drives daily (in the early morning and early evening). In addition to leopards, animals sighted here include camels, hyenas, fox and more than 250 types of birds including migratory species such as flamingos. Each evening on safari, guests are invited to sit by the campfire and mingle over cocktails. Dining on gourmet Indian fare under the stars, with what seems like a million candles twinkling all around, is truly magical.

In addition to game drives, guests spend their time relaxing at the lovely pool adjacent to the chic lounge and dining tent. Treatments are available in the spa tent or can be arranged privately in guest accommodations. Other activities include biking, yoga, walks and vintage jeep rides through local villages, plus junior ranger programs. There is also a small boutique filled with unique local treasures.

The Singh Family is passionate about local conservation and community preservation. Their efforts include supporting five nearby villages, rebuilding schools to have separate gender bathrooms so as to encourage girls to attend classes and organizing programs that provide meals and training for local farmers. Jawai Camp also employs locals, who comprise more than 80% of the staff.