What we say

Picture this: An 850-million-year-old landscape where leopards roam freely among the Rabari people, an indigenous community of pastoralists who’ve mastered the art of coexistence with these magnificent cats for centuries. No human casualties, just mutual respect and understanding.

But in 2014, this paradise almost vanished. When winemaker Shatrunjay Pratap discovered 11 mines were approved and 144 mines were going to be approved in the area, he knew he had to act. Armed with local wisdom from a German scientist’s book about the Rabari’s sacred duty to protect animals (bestowed by Lord Shiva himself), and support from a local priest, Shatrunjay rallied the community.

The result? A conservation victory that stopped 144 mines, preserving this unique ecosystem where leopards still bask on ancient rocks and the Rabari continue their traditional way of life.

Today, Bera Safari Lodge stands as a testament to this victory. Located 17km from the wildlife area (because respect for space matters!), this intimate 7-room lodge offers an authentic window into this remarkable world. Here, you’re not just a tourist – you’re witnessing one of India’s most inspiring stories of conservation and coexistence.

Home to leopards, hyenas, sloth bears, and 115+ bird species, this isn’t your typical safari destination. It’s a place where ancient traditions meet modern conservation, where every stay supports the preservation of this delicate balance.

Book in advance to be part of this extraordinary story. While other hotels pop up in the region, with zero thought to the land, leopards or people, Bera Safari Lodge remains true to its conservation roots. We are proud to feature is as one of our sustainable stays.

Our three words:

True | Heartfelt | Conservation

Philippa…

Hotel Story

Jawai Bandh has to be one of the most beautiful regions of Rajasthan.  In addition to its natural and unique beauty, it is home to one of the most unique and extraordinary stories of coexistence in the world.  

It was whilst on safari here, that Shatrunjay Pratap but left his successful career at Sula Vineyards when he recognized the critical threat to leopards in the region from operational and planned mines. He fought tirelessly in the High Court against the state government and mining department to protect these magnificent cats and their habitat.

Born from this passion, Bera Safari Lodge was created on 10 acres of pristine land in core the leopard habitat. As a true conservationist,  Shatrunjay  recognized the need to leave leopards their ancestral territory and visit them from a respectful distance that wouldn’t disrupt their centuries-old home.

This is a boutique property with a heart, where locals are employed and where the focus is on education and conservation. The seven cottages are comfortable, spacious and practical each with a private sit out and, featuring expansive windows that flood spaces with natural light. Meals are wholesome and can be served communally with chatter about the safaris or at your own table if you prefer a little more privacy.  A favourite amongst film makers, serious wildlifer and conservationists there’s usually interesting people to meet and conversations to be had.

Shatrunjay envisions the Bera-Jawai region as having immense potential for sustainable eco-tourism. His goal is responsible development that maintains the delicate balance between human communities and wildlife while providing economic benefits to locals. He actively promotes environmental awareness, including minimizing plastic use, supporting organic farming, and developing Agri-tourism initiatives.

His conservation efforts include water harvesting and wastewater management projects. He collaborates with NGOs and government organizations to study leopard dispersal patterns. Shatrunjay firmly believes that the successful human-wildlife coexistence model in Bera-Jawai can serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives worldwide.

Who is this for: Those passionate about wildlife conservation, cultural heritage and wanting to learn about, understand the importance of the symbiotic relationship of Rabaris and Leopards, oh and get some great photos too!

SUSTAINABLE SCORE : 54/70

  • Land Reclamation/Rewilding: 9
  • Food from 50 Mile Radius: 9
  • Organic Produce: 7
  • Wastewater Recycling: 3
  • Natural Materials / Heritage Building: 7
  • Single Plastic Use Never: 10
  • Local Staff: 9

SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES

  • Use of local produce, including homemade butter and milk from local vendors
  • Organic cultivation of vegetables, herbs, and spices within the lodge
  • Encouraging local farmers to grow organic wheat, maize, and pulses
  • Installation of RO plants and use of glass bottles for drinking water
  • Use of soap dispensers to reduce plastic sachet usage
  • Zero single-use plastic consumption
  • Composting of kitchen waste for use as manure in fields
  • Use of natural lanterns for outdoor lighting
  • Smoking cow dung and neem leaves as insect repellent instead of hazardous chemicals
  • Utilization of local resources, including 100% local manpower and building materials

SUSTAINABLE SCORE : 54/70

  • Land Reclamation/Rewilding: 9
  • Food from 50 Mile Radius: 9
  • Organic Produce: 7
  • Wastewater Recycling: 3
  • Natural Materials / Heritage Building: 7
  • Single Plastic Use Never: 10
  • Local Staff: 9

SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES

  • Use of local produce, including homemade butter and milk from local vendors
  • Organic cultivation of vegetables, herbs, and spices within the lodge
  • Encouraging local farmers to grow organic wheat, maize, and pulses
  • Installation of RO plants and use of glass bottles for drinking water
  • Use of soap dispensers to reduce plastic sachet usage
  • Zero single-use plastic consumption
  • Composting of kitchen waste for use as manure in fields
  • Use of natural lanterns for outdoor lighting
  • Smoking cow dung and neem leaves as insect repellent instead of hazardous chemicals
  • Utilization of local resources, including 100% local manpower and building materials

EXPERIENCES

HOW TO REACH HERE

BY AIR: Udaipur’s Maharana Pratap Airport is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by car from Bera Safari Lodge

 

DESTINATIONS DISTANCE (KM) TIME (HR)
Udaipur 150 Km 2 Hours 30 Minutes
Jodhpur 120 Km 2 Hours 15 Minutes
Mount Abu 100 Km 2 Hours
Ranakpur Jain Temple 70 Km 1 Hours 30 Minutes
Kumbhalgarh Fort 90 Km 2 Hours