Asiatic Lion and Rajasthan Leopard

Enjoy thrilling safaris that take you through the rugged terrain of this savannah-like forest that provides perfect camouflage for brown-skinned Asiatic lions. The Sasan Gir forest is home to more than 500 lions, 300 leopards, 40 other species of reptile and amphibian animals, as well as hyenas, Indian foxes, cabbages (tetracera antelope), not to mention the many birds that reside there. Then head to Blackbuck National Park. Velavadar National Park is a hidden gem, one of the last remaining grassland stands in the vast alluvial plain that runs along the Gulf of Khambatt, called Bhal. The Bhal is a tapestry of cotton, wheat and other agricultural land, salt plains, grasslands, pastures, freshwater wetlands and coastal marshes. Nearly forty species of grasses have been identified in Bhal. The national park is a magnificent expanse of 1400 km² of savannah meadows and shrubs, largely devoid of trees, which offers a magnificent and enchanting spectacle. It is wonderful to watch the meadows change colour at different times of the day, and also at different seasons of the year, from bright greens to golden browns to grasses that sway in a light breeze. The beauty of the prairies is enhanced by the abundance of flora and fauna ranging from butterflies to dragonflies to India's largest antelope, the Nilgaults. Continuation to the Little Rann of Kutch, a geographically unique landscape that was once an arm of the Arabian Sea. As a land separated from the sea by geological forces, it has become a vast plain without relief encrusted with salt flooded with water during the rains. The safari through the Little Rann visits the 'bets', islands located on the ancient seabed which are now higher terrain covered with grass and brush. These "bets" support a variety of wildlife, including the "Gudkhur" (Indian Wild Ass) not found elsewhere. The indian wild ass is a member of the horse family. Able to reach high speeds when galloping on the Rann, the wild donkey usually moves in small herds. Finally, further north, we enter Rajasthan, in Bera, territory of the leopard which coexists with the Rabaris, a community of shepherds who are distinguished by their white tunic and red turban.