On The Rocks

If I pose a riddle to wildlife enthusiasts –

Famous for rocks and hidden caves, where paws move softly, hard to find, Shepherds graze on the same rough land, Where wild and tame both belong, Can you name the place?

I am sure many of you have already guessed it right.

Jawai, Famously called Land of Leopards and Shepherds.

Once a hidden jewel, it has become immensely popular among tourists and wildlife enthusiasts over the last decade – and for good reason. It’s charm is undeniable. It is even more remarkable for being one of the rare places where big cat is cohabiting alongside humans, almost peacefully.

The natural cave-like rock formations of Jawai has created lairs which provides shelter and secure space to the solitary cat. One of my most memorable sights was of Leopardess Fanella, marking her lair before settling in for the day.

If one were to debate what’s more thrilling about Jawai—the adventurous jeep ride over its rocky, rolling hills, or finding a well-camouflaged leopard hidden among them, neither would win for certain and that’s what make Jawai so uniquely captivating.

“Rocks are the silent sentinels of time, holding stories of the Earth within their layers.”

The rocky, semi-arid habitat of Jawai is approximately eight hundred and fifty million years old.  It’s landscape is dominated by ancient granite boulders, some of the oldest on Earth,  is more than just a picturesque backdrop. It supports variety of flora and fauna and plays a vital role in region’s ecological balance. 

Sloth Bear making an appearance!
Rare to Sight – Striped Hynea
Leopardess surrounded by Thor, the native fauna of Jawai.
Indian Eagle Owl giving judgemental looks 🙂
Boulderscape
White-eyed Buzzard

May these ancient rocks erode only by time, not by the hands of humans, and may all creatures, big and small, continue to find refuge in their cradle.

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One Comment

  1. “You’ve really captured the beauty and strength of this magnificent creature. Thanks for sharing such incredible shots!”

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