Breathtaking landscapes, stately leopards, enchanting birds, and relics of an opulent past – Castle Bera in Rajasthan is Leopard territory like no other. This quaint hamlet situated in Pali district of Rajasthan, hidden in the heart of the country, is gaining notoriety among wildlife aficionados due to its unique ecosystem that flourishes in the shadows of the Aravalli hills.
Unveiling the Enigma of Bera
Bera Rajasthan is a hidden gem that’s often bypassed by travelers on the Rajasthan tourism trail. The town’s allure is found in its tranquil landscapes peppered with cacti and keekar shrubs, and the majestic Aravalli hills that stand as a backdrop, providing a perfect sanctuary for the most elusive cat in the wild – the leopard.
Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan’s wilderness, Bera is a captivating destination for a wildlife safari, especially for those keen on a Jawai leopard safari. The hillocks, adorned with caves, offer an ideal environment for leopards, making it a hotspot for leopard safari adventures.
The Jawai Dam, constructed near the village, has resulted in a lake-like water body which is home to some of the largest crocodiles and a myriad of resident and migratory birds. This picturesque spot amidst the hills provides an exceptional opportunity for nature and wildlife photography.
Currently, this leopard haven in Bera is not officially recognized as a wildlife sanctuary by the Government of Rajasthan, but steps are being taken to grant legal protection to its rich biodiversity, with a particular emphasis on establishing a leopard reserve and enhancing the Rajasthan safari experience.
Bera: A Biosphere of Rich Flora and Fauna
Bera’s ecosystem is a tapestry of diversity, home to species like the Jawai leopard, crocodiles, nilgai, and more. It is a part of Jawai Rajasthan where birdwatchers can delight in spotting a plethora of avian species, from the majestic osprey to the vibrant parakeet.
Weathering the Seasons in Bera
The climate of Bera fluctuates throughout the year. Summers, from March to June, can be intensely hot with temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius. Monsoons, from July to September, bring moderate rainfall, offering relief from the intense heat. Winters, from November to February, are quite cold with temperatures dropping to as low as 2 degrees Celsius in December and January.
The optimal time to visit Bera for a nature safari and to immerse in photography is during the pleasant months of October, November, and February. Despite the cold in December and January, these months are prime for witnessing the elusive cat and observing migratory birds near the Jawai Dam, enhancing the Jawai safari experience.
A Leap into the Leopard’s Lair
Before Bera became renowned for its wildlife, Nagarhole National Park was celebrated for the best leopard sightings. Bera has now eclipsed Nagarhole, offering more frequent and high-quality leopard sightings. Visitors often find themselves on a jungle safari or a gypsy safari, completely captivated by these magnificent creatures in their natural surroundings.
Avian Extravaganza at Bera
Bera is not just about leopards. It’s also a paradise for bird lovers. From flamingoes and sarus cranes to bar-headed geese and ruddy shelducks, the waters of the Jawai Dam attract a plethora of bird species. The dam, surrounded by picturesque hills, is a must-visit spot for bird watchers and photographers, offering an opportunity to stay at the Jawai leopard camp.
Crocodile Spotting at Bera
Apart from leopards and birds, Bera is also home to a large population of crocodiles that can be seen basking on the boulders near the Jawai Dam, which is part of the Jawai leopard reserve.
A Taste of Royalty at Castle Bera
To fully experience the regal charm of Rajasthan, a stay at Castle Bera is recommended. This warm and hospitable heritage hotel takes you back to the era of the Raj. It offers an experience of a lifetime, allowing guests to live like royalty while enjoying the surrounding wilderness.
Getting to Bera
Bera is approximately 140 kilometers away from Udaipur, the nearest city. It can be reached by road, rail, and air, and is in proximity to other attractions such as the majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort, the serene Jain Temple, and the historic Ranakpur.
- By Road: Bera is about a two-hour drive from Udaipur.
- By Rail: The closest railway stations to Bera are Jawai Bandh (28 km), Falna (40 km), and Udaipur (140 km), all of which are well connected to other major cities in Rajasthan.
- By Air: The nearest airports to Bera are Udaipur (161 km), Jaipur (398 km), and New Delhi (607 km), all of which have regular flights from major cities in India.
Bera, with its unique blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and royal heritage, is a destination that should be on every traveler’s list. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a passionate photographer, or a history buff, Castle Bera in Rajasthan is a leopard’s lair that won’t disappoint, surrounded by rocky hills and offering village safaris.
