About Jhalana
Ready for a thrilling encounter with Jhalana’s majestic leopards? Plan your perfect safari now. Leave the booking worries to us—we’ll take care of it!
Jhalana Leopard Safari Park, spanning over 23 sq km, is the first leopard reserve located in Jaipur, Rajasthan. As per the latest statistics, there are around 40 leopards and 5 cubs in the park, with 6-7 leopards residing in the tourism area of the park. Knowing about Jhalana leopard park for all wildlife tourists and adventure lovers is crucial. It is one of the best destinations to spot the apex predator, who is also a shy cat but a stealthy hunter. Jhalana does not have other apex predators like lions or tigers; thus, it gives the leopards the confidence to better set up their territory and enjoy being the king here.
Other fauna here include blue bulls, wild boars, spotted deer, and many other migratory or local birds. Operational since 2016, there are two safari routes for visitors to explore the beauties in their natural habitat. Becoming a leopard reserve in 2017, striped hyenas are also a sought-after creature here. Apart from visiting the Leopard Reserve, visitors also like to explore the Shikaar Audi, the royal’s hunting lodge, perfect for enjoying a sunset and sunrise. One of the best ways to have an adventure-filled day in Jaipur, Leopard Safari Park is a must, and this blog gives you the much-needed information for the same.
History of Jhalana Leopard Park
The history of Jhalana Leopard Reserve in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is marked by its use as a hunting ground and its transformation into a leopard reserve:
In the early 19th century, Jhalana was a popular hunting ground for state officials and other dignitaries. The Shikar Audhi, or Hunting Palace, was built in the forest to facilitate hunting and offers views of the forest and city. The last tiger was shot in 1948, and its cubs were moved to the Jaipur Zoo. After a ban on hunting, leopards became the apex predator in Jhalana. In 2017, the Rajasthan Forest Department identified Jhalana as a potential leopard reserve. In 2018, the reserve opened to the public for guided safari tours.
The reservation, a collaboration between the state government, Rajasthan forest Department and conservation organization aims to protect and conserve the population of leopards. Before 1979, stone mining was the norm in Jhalana. But the supreme court banned it in the 1990s, giving the forest a chance to regenerate.
Flora of Jhalana Leopard Safari Park
The flora of Jhalana Leopard Safari Park includes 220 species of beautiful plant species surrounding the valleys of Aravallis with sharp cliffs of the hills dominating the landscape of the reserve. Jhalana is a dry deciduous forest which remains dry maximum time of the year because trees shed their leaves in the dry season. During the monsoon season, it looks lushious. The species of plants you will find here in maximum quantity includes Julifora and Khejri. Julifora was planted initially for providing firewood to local villagers and is now growing rapidly here. These trees, however, do not support the growth of any other trees and grasslands. The nearby valleys have local flora like Salar, dhonk, kumta and dhak.
Fauna of Jhalana Leopard Safari Park
The majestic Leopard is the apex predator here, the first one in the food-chain here. Leopard is a nocturnal, shy, rare-sighted and solitary predator and is known for its stealthy hunting and climbing skills, Leopards of Jhalana are a bit different. They are diurnal in nature, so spotting them even in the daytime is easy, thus, it is the most preferred reserve for leopard lovers.
The other animals you will find here include jungle cats, desert cats, Indian Civets, striped Hyena, jackals, desert foxes, porcupines, monitor lizards, and mongooses. A variety of snakes and birds also call this place their home. The rare bird species one can find in Jhalana Leopard Reserve makes this place a haven for birdwatchers. You will find birds like Dusky Eagle, Owl, Spotted Owlets and Indian Pitta in the national park here.
Here is a checklist of animal species in Jhalana:
Avifauna- 132 species
Mammal- 33 species
Reptiles- 20 species
Spots in Jhalana Safari Park
Leopard Sighting Zones
Jhalana Leopard Safari Park is divided into various zones, and each offers unique opportunities for leopard sightings. Zone 1, or Central Zone, is known as the leopard sighting zone, featuring rocky outcrops, waterholes, and dense forests. The waterholes are the places where leopards frequent to quench their thirst. The rocky terrain is ideal for the highest sighting of leopards, as it is the best spot for spotting the big cats because they can act as a camouflage for the leopards. In this zone, you will also see some other animals like jackals and spotted deer.
Shikar Audi (Royal Hunting Lodge)
The guests arriving at the Leopard Safari Park can pay a nominal charge to visit the beautiful Shikar Audi or the ‘Royal hunting lodge.’ In the early 19th century, Jhalana used to be a popular hunting ground, and royals from various states came to hunt here. The old shikar audi, or the hunting ground, stands as a reflection of all the huntings that took place in the grounds. It is the spot where in 1948, the last of the tigers were hunted and their cubs were shifted to the Jaipur Zoo. After the ban on hunting, leopards are thriving here as they are the apex predators. Safaris often take you to Shikar Audi or the Royal hunting lodge, where you can enjoy a tea/coffee break or take in the views of the beautiful sunrise and sunset.
Watering Holes
Jhalana Leopard Park, Jaipur, is home to many watering holes attracting a variety of wildlife, including leopards, during the daytime. The highest sighting is during early morning and late evening. The water sources are necessary for the survival of many animals, and you will see a maximum of the animals near the watering hole only. This makes them the best spots for wildlife sightings.
The best watering holes here include Jhalana Pond, Naila Lake, and Mangarh Lake, frequented by leopards, spotted deer, wild boars, and many other animals. You will also find birds near the watering hole, including eagles, kingfishers, and peafowls, adding to the diverse ecosystem of the park. The watering holes are located strategically in different zones, and the guides focus on these areas for leopard sighting as they come here often to hunt or drink. That is why the dry season is the best time to head to Jhalana Leopard Safari Park, as most of the wildlife gathers near the watering holes during this time.
Birdwatching Points
Jhalana Leopard Safari Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, as you can see diverse avian species here. There are over 200 species of birds here, including both migratory and resident birds. The varied landscapes range from rocky hills and dense forests to wetlands and scrublands, ideal conditions for birds to thrive. The waterholes, like Naila Lake or Mangarh Lake, are the best spots for birdwatching. The species you can witness here include the Indian Roller, Purple Sunbird, Indian Peafowl, Grey Hornbill, and raptors like vultures and eagles. You will also see migratory birds here.
Aravalli Hills
The Aravalli Hills is known as a picturesque backdrop to Jhalana Leopard Safari Park. It offers a unique ecosystem supporting the park’s diverse wildlife. These ancient hills are a visual treat and play an important role in the biodiversity of the park. The rocky outcrops, dense vegetation, and rugged terrain create a beautiful habitat for leopards, turning it into a successful leopard spotting zone. The Aravallis also support a variety of flora and fauna here, adding to the ecological significance of the park.
Dense Forest Trails
The dense forest trails of Jhalana Leopard Safari Park are one of the best immersive experiences one can have in the wilderness. These trails take you through thick vegetation and are home to many species of mammals, reptiles, and birds. They also provide an excellent opportunity for the visitors to observe wildlife in their natural habitat while enjoying the blissful nature. As you explore these trails, you enhance the safari adventure but increase the chances of unexpected wildlife encounters, making your visit here memorable.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts
Conservation Measures in Place
The current wildlife conservation efforts in Jhalana Leopard Safari Park include:
Leopard Reserve Designation
In 2017, Jhalana was announced as the first leopard reserve in Rajasthan, 2017. It highlights the importance of leopards and secures additional protection for the wildlife.
Eco-Tourism Regulations
Safaris are regulated, as only a number of vehicles are allowed in the wildlife-protected area per day. This minimizes the disturbance to the animals.
Community Involvement
The current conservation measures also include local communities’ engagement in conservation activities. It involves awareness campaigns and wildlife monitoring fostering a sense of ownership.
Wildlife Monitoring
GPS collars and camera traps are also placed inside the park to track leopards to study their behavior, ensuring effective management of the population.
Habitat Restoration
There are many efforts underway for restoring degraded areas within the reserve by starting a plantation drive for native trees and also creating waterholes. These little steps can restore the habitat necessary for the thriving of leopards and other wildlife here.
Proposed solutions for long-term conservation
Wildlife Corridors
This conservation proposal talks about establishing corridors to connect the safari park with nearby forests allowing animals to move without any restrictions. It reduces human-wildlife conflict while maintaining genetic diversity as well.
Urban Planning Integration
It incorporates Jhalana’s conservation needs into the urban planning process to help mitigate the impact of infrastructure development.
Prey Base Management
It enhances the prey population through habitat enrichment. The controlled re-wilding effort reduces pressure on leopards and ensures they do not venture outside the reserve.
Community training programs
Training the locals in wildlife rescue and mitigating conflict is another conservation effort happening ensuring a harmonious coexistence between animals and humans.
Increased awareness campaigns
This effort includes residents about leopard behavior and its importance in the ecosystem of Jhalana is important for fostering empathy and to reduce fear.
Best time to visit
The Jhalana Leopard Reserve, the first Leopard reserve in India is ideal for safari tours throughout the year. Even in the monsoon season, Jhalana Leopard Safari Park operates its safari. However, the monsoon season may be the reason a few of your safaris are canceled due to heavy rains. Summer makes enjoying the safari a bit problematic as the weather is extremely dry and hot. Therefore, the best time to head to a safari in Jhalana Leopard Park is from November to April. It is the best time to visit Jhalana reserve as the weather is pleasant and nature blossoms fully enhancing the beauty of the forests.
Nearby Attractions
Hawa Mahal
The iconic palace of Jaipur, Hawa Mahal is known for its unique architecture featuring an intricate facade with 953 small windows, or Jharokhas. It was designed to allow the royal women to observe the festivals without being seen. The pink sandstone construction and the beautiful ornate design make it a beautiful symbol of the rich history of Jaipur. It is near Jhalana Leopard Safari Park, so combining the two can be perfect.
Galta Ji Temple
Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, the Galta Ji temple is known for its natural freshwater springs and a good population of monkeys. The temple complex, also known as the monkey temple, is home to many sacred water tanks for the pilgrims to bathe in. It is a tranquil place for taking beautiful pictures.
Jantar Mantar
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is one of the largest astronomical observatories in India. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the 18th century, it has 19 astronomical instruments used to measure time, track stars, and predict eclipses, all showcasing the scientific prowess of the era.
Nahargarh Fort
Situated high on the Aravalli Hills, the fort offers breathtaking views of Jaipur. It was built as a retreat for Jaipur’s royal family and is now a popular spot for photographers and history buffs. The view of the sunrise from here is simply beautiful.
Jaigarh Fort
It overlooks the Amber Fort and is known for its massive cannon, Jaivana, the largest on wheels in the entire world. The fort is well-preserved, providing beautiful views of the nearby landscape, making it one of the best destinations to watch the entire skyline of Jaipur.
City Palace
It is located in Jaipur’s heart and is a mix of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles. It includes many courtyards, buildings, gardens, and museums housing a rich collection of royal costumes, artifacts, and textiles. To know about the history of Rajasthan, this is the place to be.
Albert Hall Museum
It is also known as the Central Museum and is the oldest museum in the desert state. The museum has a rich collection of artifacts, including sculptures, ancient pottery, and paintings. The museum’s Indo-Saracenic architecture adds to the charm, making it a historical and cultural treasure trove.
Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh
The Bagh is dedicated to Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II’s queen. Sisodia Rani ka Bagh is a beautiful garden adorned with fountains, lush greenery, and murals depicting the scenes from Lord Krishna’s life.
Jaipur Zoo
It is in close proximity to Jhalana Leopard Reserve and appeals to all animal lovers. It was established in 1877, and it houses a variety of species like exotic birds, reptiles, and mammals.
How to Reach Jhalana Leopard Safari Park?
- By air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport in Sanganer, 6 km from Jhalana Leopard Safari Park. Take a cab or auto from the airport to reach the park. The airport is connected to many major cities of India.
- By train: The nearest railway station is the Jaipur Railway Station, 13.5 km away from the national park. The tourists can take a local cab, taxi, or bus to reach the leopard safari. The railway station connects to major cities like Mumbai, Udaipur, Delhi, and others.
- By road: The Jhalana safari is connected via the road with major towns and cities of India. You can use the state buses or a private bus to reach Jhalana from major cities.
FAQ’s About Jhalana (Jhalana Leopard Reserve)
What are the Safari Timings at Jhalana Leopard Safari Park?
Jhalana Leopard Safari park has two slots for safaris, one in the morning and one in the evening. Here are the timings:
- Morning safari: 7 am- 9:30 am, Evening: 3:15 pm to 5:45 pm (1st November to 31st January)
- Morning Safari: 6:15 am-8:45 am, Evening: 3:45 pm to 6:15 pm (1st February to 31st March)
- Morning Safari: 6:45 am-9:15 am, Evening: 3:45 pm to 6:15 pm (1st August to 31st October)
- Morning Safari: 5:45 am-8:15 pm, Evening: 4:15 pm to 6:45 pm (1st April to 31st May)
- Morning Safari: 5:45 am-8:15 pm, Evening: 04:45 pm to 07:15 pm (1st May to 31st July)
What are the popular tourist attractions in & around Jhalana Leopard Safari Park?
Jhalana Leopard Safari Park is situated in Jaipur, so you can combine a few other spots like:
- The City Palace, Jaipur
- Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
- Jal Mahal, Jaipur
- Albert Hall Museum
What is the best time to visit Jhalana Leopard Safari Park?
The best time to visit Jhalana Leopard Safari Park is during the winter months from October to March. These months offer pleasant weather for taking a safari and are also comfortable for both wildlife sightings and visitors. The hot summer months of April to June are not good due to extreme heat.
Ideal Months and Seasons for Wildlife Sightings at Jhalana
For optimal wildlife sightings at Jhalana Leopard Safari Park, the ideal months are October to March. During these months, the weather is cooler, making animals more active, especially leopards. The dry season also improves visibility, as animals are drawn to waterholes, increasing the chances of sightings.
How Do I Book a Safari in Jhalana?
Jawai leopard safari runs throughout the year and it is the perfect time for exploring the wilderness here. Yet, if looking for a specific season, the months between September to February are ideal for heading to a leopard safari. The summer timings are between 5 am to 8 am (Mornings) and 5 pm to 8 pm (evenings).
What types of Safaris Available at Jhalana Safari Park?
Jhalana offers only one type of safari- Jeep safari ideal for everyone, especially a group. It can accommodate up to six people in one go and is perfect for leopard spotting. You are with a guide or naturalists who takes you to the best zones like leopard zones or near the water holes ideal for spotting leopards.
Which Animals Can I Expect to See in Jhalana Except Leopards?
Apart from being home to almost 40 Leopards and around 4-5 cubs, there are other wildlife here too. These include wild boars, hyenas, langurs, wildcats and spotted deer. The park also hosts over 200 bird species including parakeets, eagles and peafowls,
How Long Does a Safari Typically Last?
A safari in Jhalana Leopard Park typically lasts around 2-3 hours. The duration is ideal for exploring the terrain of the park and increasing the likelihood of encountering leopards, hyenas and other wildlife here. Irrespective of whether you book an evening safari or a morning one, the time-frame is this only.
Are Private Vehicles Allowed Inside the Park?
Private vehicles are generally not allowed inside Jhalana Leopard Safari Park. Visitors are required to travel in park-authorized vehicles, such as jeeps or canters, which are designed for wildlife viewing and provide a safer, more controlled environment for both animals and tourists.
What Are the Main Entry Gates to Jhalana?
There are two main entry gates to Jhalana. One is Gumanpura and Dhonk Gate. The Dhonk Gate is situated near Malviya Industrial Area, RIICO and is the primary entrance for most visitors. It is 12 km from Jaipur city. The Gumanpura Gate is near Jhalana Village providing access to a different zone of the reserve. It offers a different safari experience and is 22 km from the Jaipur city. It has light traffic so you approach the safari easily but it has fewer safari options.
Is It Safe to Visit Jhalana with Children?
Yes, Jhalana is a great place to take your kids as it is safe for them but they need to be accompanied by adults. Also, follow all the safety instructions given by your guides and children should remain inside the safari vehicle all the time. Ensure they do not make loud noises which can disrupt the animals routine or alert them into running.
Are There Accommodation Options Near Jhalana?
Yes, several accommodation options are available near Jhalana Leopard Safari Park. These range from luxury resorts to affordable hotels in Jaipur. A few properties like Jhalana Resort is near to the park and also offers some safari packages. A few other accommodations include:
- The Hotel Hill View, 80 meters from the park.
- Hotel De Nada, 3.8 km from the park.
- Hyatt Place, 1.8 km from the park.
- The Lata’s- A homestay in Jaipur.
What Should I Carry for a Safari in Jhalana?
For an optimal safari experience, carry light clothes, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Also, carry a camera with a strong zoom lens (no flash) and binoculars for better viewing the animals.
Here are a few things you should not carry inside the safari- arms, pets, explosives, poisonous chemicals or flashlights.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Park?
Yes, Jhalana allows photography but there are some restrictions you must follow. These include not using flash photography as it disturbs the animals. Recording the animals on video is also allowed but for taking professional camera equipment to the park, you need prior permission from the authorities for obvious safety reasons. Also, using a strong zoom lens will probably help you take better shots of the wild cats.
What Are the Charges for Entry and Safaris?
The entry charges are included in safari charges only. For Indian citizens, the price is INR 1500 per passenger and 9000/gypsy. For international citizens, the price is INR 2,500 per passenger and 15,000/gypsy.
How Far Is Jhalana from Jaipur?
Jhalana wildlife reserve is situated near Calgari Marg, Jaipur, so from the main center of Jaipur, it is only 10-15 km away. It is perfect for a half-day visit. Moreover, driving from Jaipur to the park usually only takes 30-minutes by taxi or car. From the airport, it is only 6.5 km away and one can reach here in 16-minutes.
How Far Is Jhalana from Delhi?
Jhalana Leopard Safari Park is approximately 290-300 km from the capital of India, Delhi. It takes around 5-6 hours by road to reach the park. Alternatively, booking a flight or train to Jaipur is a quick and affordable option respectively. From both the places, you can drive to Jhalana to see the leopards.
Ready for a thrilling encounter with Jhalana’s majestic leopards? Plan your perfect safari now. Leave the booking worries to us—we’ll take care of it!