Bera, a small village nestled in the Aravalli region of Rajasthan, is a hidden gem on the wildlife map of India, located close to the scenic Mount Abu hill station. Once little known to the outside world, Bera has today emerged as one of the top wildlife photography hotspots in India, renowned for its thriving population of Indian leopards (Panthera pardus) — locally called panthers. These magnificent cats are frequently seen in open rocky terrains and degraded forest patches adjoining the village, offering unparalleled opportunities for close and rewarding leopard photography experiences that remain etched in memory for a lifetime.
The villagers of Bera, many of whom served as expert trackers for British hunters in the past, possess remarkable knowledge of the land and its wildlife, significantly increasing the chances of leopard sightings. The landscape here is dominated by the hardy Khejri (Sangri) trees, which further enhances visibility and spotting opportunities.
Adding to its allure is the majestic Jawai Dam, one of the largest man-made dams in western Rajasthan, built by Maharaja Umaid Singh of Jodhpur. The dam is also a Marsh Crocodile Sanctuary, where over a dozen crocodiles can often be seen basking together. Despite the rugged terrain and extreme climate, Bera is a haven for diverse wildlife, including Blue Bulls (Nilgai) and several other ungulates. Night safaris along the banks of the Jawai Dam often reveal fascinating nocturnal activity, with herbivores and carnivores alike emerging under the starlit sky.
Bera’s birdlife is equally spectacular — spending just a few hours near its lakes and smaller water bodies can yield sightings of numerous resident and migratory species, making it a paradise for bird photographers as well.
Join DCP Expeditions’ Leopard Photography Camp at Bera and experience the thrill of photographing leopards in the wild, set against dramatic rocky landscapes and vibrant biodiversity. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned wildlife photographer, Bera promises unforgettable encounters and extraordinary photographic opportunities.
