Jawai Adds a New Dimension to Sterling’s Rajasthan Portfolio
The 19-key retreat strengthens Sterling’s Rajasthan presence, positioning Jawai as a wildlife-led destination within a wider regional travel circuit.
By SOH Edit Team
Known for its leopard population and distinctive granite landscape, Jawai is emerging as a wilderness destination beyond Rajasthan’s traditional heritage circuit. Sterling Holiday Resorts is looking to tap into this appeal with its latest opening.
Jawai’s appeal extends beyond leopard sightings. The Jawai Dam reservoir attracts diverse birdlife, while the surrounding countryside, Rabari communities and regional culinary traditions offer a deeper understanding of the region. For travellers, the destination presents an opportunity to combine wildlife experiences with slower, more immersive exploration.
“Jawai is compelling because the reason you arrive and the reason you remember the holiday can be very different. A leopard may create the first pull, but the real richness comes from everything that surrounds that experience,” said Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director and CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited.
He added that the opening strengthens Sterling’s Rajasthan portfolio and wilderness offering while creating a natural link along the Mount Abu–Udaipur–Jawai–Jodhpur travel circuit.
An Intimate Retreat in the Wilderness
The resort features 19 cottages, suites and villas designed to offer privacy and comfort amid the landscape. Jawai Villas come with private balconies and bathtubs, while Pool Villas feature private plunge pools and secluded outdoor spaces. A Two-Bedroom Pool Villa caters to families and groups travelling together. An infinity pool, children's play area and outdoor spaces complement the stay.
Dining is central to the experience at Jawai Vista, where regional flavours meet contemporary presentations. The menu features local specialities such as Methi Bajra Khichda, Panchkutte ki Subzi, Mathania Chicken and Jawai Laal Maas, alongside chef-curated dishes. Subject to conditions, guests can also opt for outdoor breakfasts, safari picnics and locally inspired meals against the surrounding landscape.
Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director and CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited.
Beyond the Leopard Safari
Guided leopard safaris anchor the guest experience, complemented by excursions around Jawai Dam, birdwatching, crocodile spotting and opportunities to explore nearby villages and the countryside. Together, these experiences encourage visitors to discover Jawai beyond its wildlife, connecting the natural environment with the region’s culture and everyday life.
“What drew us to Jawai was its rarity, a place where wildlife, open landscapes and everyday life exist side by side without the destination feeling over-engineered for tourism. We wanted the resort to preserve that sense of space and discovery while giving travellers the comfort to stay longer and see more of the region,” said Manish Gurani, owner, BMMR Hospitality LLP.
Building Travel Circuits
Located between Udaipur and Jodhpur, Jawai adds a wilderness dimension to Rajasthan itineraries traditionally centred on heritage cities, forts and palaces. For Sterling, the opening goes beyond expanding its property portfolio: it strengthens the state's hospitality footprint while creating opportunities to connect distinct destinations into a more cohesive travel experience.
The launch reflects Sterling's broader expansion strategy of building around distinct travel motivations, from wildlife and nature to spirituality, culture and wellness. The focus, as the company has described it, is on building travel circuits rather than simply “marking dots on a map.”
