Located in the heart of Jaipur and surrounded by the ancient Aravali Hills, Jhalana Leopard Reserve has earned a reputation as one of the best places in India for spotting leopards in the wild. Unlike larger national parks, Jhalana is a relatively small reserve, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for with an impressive leopard population and consistent sightings. If you dream of witnessing the elusive leopard in its natural habitat, Jhalana offers one of the highest chances to do so.
Leopards of Jhalana
Jhalana is home to more than 30 leopards, with several dominant individuals frequently spotted by safari-goers. Among them, Rana, Karan and Bahadur stand out as iconic leopards known for their elegant presence and bold sightings.
Unlike many other parks where leopards are notoriously shy, the leopards of Jhalana have adapted well to the terrain and are often seen resting on rocky outcrops, walking along trails, or perched on trees scanning their surroundings.
Other Wildlife in Jhalana
While leopards are the prime attraction, Jhalana is also home to an array of other wildlife species, including:
Hyenas – The second-largest predator in Jhalana after leopards.
Desert Foxes and Jackals – Often seen in open patches of the reserve.
Nilgai (Blue Bull), Spotted Deer, and Sambar Deer – Important prey species for leopards.
Monitor Lizards and Indian Palm Civets – Fascinating reptiles and nocturnal mammals.
Birdwatching in Jhalana
Jhalana is not just about leopards! The reserve also attracts birdwatchers, thanks to its diverse avifauna. Some key bird species found here include:
Indian Eagle-Owl
Crested Serpent Eagle
White-eyed Buzzard
Indian Pitta (seasonal migrant)
Peacocks and Parakeets
With open grasslands and rocky cliffs, Jhalana offers great opportunities for raptor sightings as well.
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How to Reach Jhalana Leopard Reserve
Jhalana’s location makes it one of the most accessible wildlife reserves in India:
By Road: Jhalana is just a 5-hour drive from New Delhi, making it a perfect weekend getaway.
By Train: Jaipur Railway Station is just 10 km away.
By Air: Jaipur International Airport is about 8 km away, making it convenient for both domestic and international travelers.
You can also explore Bharatpur with your Jhalana adventure
While Jhalana offers thrilling leopard safaris, you can enhance your trip by adding a visit to Bharatpur’s Keoladeo National Park, one of the finest bird sanctuaries in India. Located just 180 km (approx. 3-hour drive) from Jaipur, Bharatpur is a paradise for bird lovers, especially in winter (October to March) when thousands of migratory birds arrive.
Why Combine Jhalana with Bharatpur?
Best of Both Worlds: Experience big cats at Jhalana and exquisite birdlife at Bharatpur in a single trip.
Easy Accessibility: Both destinations are well-connected by road (less than 3 hour’s drive from Jaipur to Bharatpur), making it a seamless itinerary.
Diverse Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning shots of leopards, hyenas, and raptors in Jhalana and then shift to pelicans, painted storks, ducks, and eagles in Bharatpur.
Optional Add-On: Explore Jaipur’s rich heritage—visit Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar.
Plan Your Jhalana Leopard Safari with WoW
At WoW Wildlife Tours, we offer exclusive customized safaris to Jhalana, ensuring the best wildlife experience with expert guides and photographers. Whether you are a wildlife photographer, birding enthusiast, or a nature lover, we tailor the experience to your needs.
📩 Contact us today to book your WoW Jhalana Leopard Safari and witness these majestic big cats in action!