Tucked away in the rocky folds of Rajasthan’s ancient Aravalli hills lies Jawai—a land where leopards roam freely among temples, villages, and volcanic granite outcrops. Unofficially crowned as the Leopard Capital of India, Jawai remains one of Rajasthan’s best-kept secrets—a rare landscape where wilderness and human life coexist in harmony. Here Simple Travel Guide of How to Reach Jawai.
Though once known only to wildlife researchers and local tribes, Jawai has recently emerged as a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking something beyond the typical desert dunes or palace tours. Here, one doesn’t simply go on a wildlife safari; one connects with a living, breathing ecosystem that has thrived for centuries.
Yet despite its growing popularity, Jawai retains its raw charm and remoteness—and that means reaching it requires a bit more planning than your average tourist city. There is no commercial airport at Jawai, no metro connectivity, and no Uber pickups waiting at the corner.
But for the traveler willing to venture off the beaten path, the journey to Jawai is part of the adventure itself.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about how to reach Jawai, whether you’re flying in from another city, taking the train, or embarking on a scenic road trip across Rajasthan.
Understanding the Geography of Jawai
Before choosing your mode of transport, it helps to understand where Jawai is situated. The region referred to as Jawai spans parts of the Pali District in southwestern Rajasthan. It is not a single town or village, but rather a region made up of rocky hills, wilderness zones, and several rural settlements—most notably the village of Bera.
Jawai is located:
- Approximately 160 kilometers from Udaipur
- About 180 kilometers from Jodhpur
- Around 370 kilometers from Jaipur
- Roughly 260 kilometers from Ahmedabad
The nearest railway station is Jawai Bandh, while the closest airports are in Udaipur and Jodhpur.
Because the area lacks major commercial infrastructure, your journey to Jawai will likely be a combination of air, rail, and road travel. But this layered journey is what makes a visit here truly immersive—and deeply memorable.
How to Reach Udaipur from Delhi
Reaching Jawai by Air
For most travelers coming from other parts of India or abroad, flying is the fastest and most convenient way to approach Jawai—at least for part of the journey.
There is no airport in Jawai itself. However, you can fly into the nearest cities and continue by train or car. Here’s a breakdown of your best airport options.
Udaipur Airport
- Distance to Jawai: Approximately 160 kilometers
- Driving Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
- Flight Connectivity: Excellent domestic connections from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Jaipur, and Hyderabad
- Airport Facilities: Small but efficient, with taxis, rental cars, and prepaid counters available
This is the most recommended airport for travelers coming from North or South India, as it offers smooth road access to Jawai and stunning en-route scenery. The journey from Udaipur takes you through rolling hills, tribal villages, and lakeside vistas, giving you a visual preview of what awaits in Jawai.
Jodhpur Airport
- Distance to Jawai: Around 180 kilometers
- Driving Time: 4 to 4.5 hours
- Flight Connectivity: Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Bangalore
Jodhpur is another strong option, especially for those interested in combining heritage exploration with a wildlife trip. Many travelers plan an itinerary that includes Mehrangarh Fort and the blue lanes of Jodhpur, followed by a two-night safari experience in Jawai.
Ahmedabad Airport
- Distance to Jawai: Around 260 kilometers
- Driving Time: 5 to 6 hours
- Flight Connectivity: Wide domestic and international coverage
Travelers from Gujarat or those entering from international destinations often find Ahmedabad a viable gateway. The route from Ahmedabad to Jawai is well-paved and offers opportunities for detours through Mount Abu or Ambaji, depending on your interests.
Jaipur International Airport
- Distance to Jawai: Around 370 kilometers
- Driving Time: 7 to 8 hours
Though further away, Jaipur is sometimes used as a starting point for Rajasthan road trips, especially for those combining multiple cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur before ending at Jawai.
Transfers arranged by wildlife lodges and safari camps are the most hassle-free, with many offering door-to-door pickup from the airport. Things to Do in Jawai and Bera
Reaching Jawai by Train
If you’re traveling on a budget or want to experience Rajasthan’s landscapes at a slower, more reflective pace, then trains are a great way to get close to Jawai.
The nearest railway station is Jawai Bandh (station code: JWB). This small but important station is well-connected to several major cities, including:
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Ahmedabad
- Jaipur
- Jodhpur
- Udaipur
Depending on your route, you may also consider alighting at nearby stations such as Falna, Rani, or Sumerpur, though Jawai Bandh is the most central.
Recommended Trains to Jawai
Reach From Delhi:
- Delhi Sarai Rohilla – Bandra Terminus Express
- Sarai Rohilla – Udaipur Chetak Express (connects to Falna or Rani)
From Mumbai:
- Bandra Terminus – Delhi Sarai Rohilla Express (halts at Jawai Bandh)
Reach From Ahmedabad:
- Multiple daily services to Falna and Rani stations
From Jaipur or Jodhpur:
- Intercity trains and local express services
Train Classes and Comfort
Trains offer a variety of classes depending on your preference and budget:
- Sleeper Class: Economical but basic
- AC 3-Tier and 2-Tier: Comfortable, air-conditioned, with sleeping berths
- AC 1st Class: Most private and luxurious, though availability is limited
Book your tickets through the IRCTC portal or trusted travel platforms. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak safari season (October to March).
Final Transfer from Station to Lodge
Jawai Bandh station is 20 to 45 minutes from most safari camps, depending on the property. Lodges generally offer pickup services—make sure to arrange this in advance.
Reaching Jawai by Road
If you enjoy the freedom of the open road, a self-drive or chauffeur-driven trip to Jawai can be an unforgettable part of your journey. Rajasthan’s highways are mostly well-maintained, and the routes to Jawai are picturesque, rural, and lightly trafficked compared to major tourist circuits.
Reach From Udaipur
- Distance: ~160 kilometers
- Route: Udaipur → Gogunda → Kotda → Sayala → Bera / Jawai
- Travel Time: ~3.5 hours
- Highlights: Tribal hamlets, forest patches, and winding mountain roads
This route takes you through the scenic fringes of the Aravalli Hills, with frequent opportunities to stop for chai, snacks, and photos.
From Jodhpur
- Distance: ~180 kilometers
- Route: Jodhpur → Pali → Sanderao → Jawai Bandh
- Travel Time: ~4 hours
- Highlights: Ancient temples, heritage towns, and local markets
A Jodhpur to Jawai drive is ideal for those planning a multi-stop tour of western Rajasthan.
From Ahmedabad
- Distance: ~260 kilometers
- Route: Ahmedabad → Palanpur → Abu Road → Pindwara → Jawai
- Travel Time: ~5.5 to 6 hours
- Highlights: Mount Abu detour, Aravalli foothills
This route is ideal for travelers from Gujarat and offers a comfortable, mostly four-lane highway drive.
Tips for Road Travel
- Start early to avoid afternoon heat and rural traffic
- Watch for livestock, especially on village roads near Jawai
- Mobile networks may fluctuate—download maps in advance
- Fuel up before entering rural zones; petrol stations can be sparse
Suggested Itinerary Plan for 8 Days in Rajasthan Jaipur Jodhpur Udaipur Tour
Choosing the Right Travel Mode
Every traveler’s priorities are different. Whether you’re short on time, traveling as a family, or seeking the scenic route, here’s a quick reference to help you decide.
| Mode | Best For | Approx Time | Comfort Level | Cost (approx) |
| Flight + Car | Short trips, time-sensitive | 3–5 hours | High | ₹4,000–₹12,000 |
| Train | Budget travelers, solo travel | 12–16 hours | Medium to High | ₹500–₹2,500 |
| Road Trip | Groups, flexible explorers | 4–8 hours | Medium to High | ₹3,000–₹10,000 |
Planning Your Trip: Final Advice for How to Reach Jawai
- Book accommodations early — Jawai has a limited number of luxury safari lodges and they fill up quickly in peak season.
- Carry cash — While most lodges accept digital payments, villages may not.
- Pack for varied weather — Mornings can be chilly, especially in winter, while afternoons heat up quickly.
- Respect the ecosystem — Don’t litter, keep noise levels low, and always follow the guide’s instructions during safaris.
Check Suggested Itinerary Rajasthan and Golden Triangle Tour for 17 Days
Suggested Itinerary: How to Structure Your Arrival
1st Day: Arrival and First Impressions
- Fly into Udaipur or arrive via train
- Drive to Jawai and check into your safari lodge
- Enjoy a village walk or sunset at Jawai Dam
2nd Day: Wildlife and Culture
- Early morning leopard safari
- Breakfast followed by rest
- Afternoon visit to local Rabari community or crocodile spotting
3rd Day: Adventure and Heritage
- Morning safari or birdwatching
- Optional day trip to Ranakpur or Kumbhalgarh Fort
- Depart in the evening or extend your stay
Conclusion:
How to Reach Jawai may require a bit more effort than flying into a metropolitan city or catching a cab from a train station, but that’s exactly what makes it special. The journey takes you deep into the real Rajasthan, far from the usual tourist circuits and closer to the heart of the wild.
Whether you come by train through rolling hills, drive across sunlit roads bordered by acacia trees, or fly in and transfer through ancient villages, the road to How to Reach Jawai is full of discoveries.
And once you arrive—whether to watch leopards at dawn, meet Rabari shepherds, or sit in silence by the crocodile-filled dam—you’ll realize it was worth every step.
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