Venture beyond the famous Tiger and Leopard to discover India’s lesser-known wild cats on a unique expedition through some of the country’s most diverse and fascinating landscapes. This exclusive 21-day journey has been carefully designed for wildlife photographers, naturalists, and adventurous travelers seeking encounters with some of the world’s rarest and most elusive felines.
From the wetlands surrounding Kolkata, home to the remarkable Fishing Cat, to the sweeping grasslands of Velavadar, the granite hills of Jawai, and the vast deserts of Rajasthan, each destination reveals a different species perfectly adapted to its environment. With specialist naturalists, carefully planned nocturnal excursions, extended stays, and luxury accommodations, this expedition offers an exceptional opportunity to photograph India’s hidden predators while experiencing the country’s extraordinary ecological diversity.
Arrive in Kolkata, India’s cultural capital, before venturing into the surrounding wetlands after sunset in search of one of the world’s most remarkable felines—the elusive Fishing Cat. Guided by specialist trackers, explore mangrove edges, waterways, and traditional fish ponds where these highly adapted hunters patrol under the cover of darkness. During the day, discover Kolkata’s rich colonial architecture, bustling markets, and celebrated culinary heritage.
Travel west to the magnificent grasslands of Velavadar, one of India’s finest open ecosystems. Here, the elegant Jungle Cat hunts among golden grasses alongside Indian Wolves, Golden Jackals, Foxes, and vast herds of Blackbucks. Extended time in the reserve allows for patient observation and exceptional photographic opportunities during the soft light of dawn and dusk.
Continue to the spectacular granite wilderness of Jawai, where ancient rock formations provide refuge not only for Leopards but also for the diminutive Rusty-spotted Cat—the world’s smallest wild cat. Explore rocky valleys, caves, and scrub-covered hills by day and night while experiencing one of India’s most extraordinary examples of peaceful coexistence between wildlife and local Rabari communities.
Journey into the vast Thar Desert, where rolling sand dunes and sparse desert scrub support one of India’s most specialised feline species—the elusive Desert Cat. Guided by experienced trackers, search for this beautifully camouflaged hunter while also encountering Desert Foxes, Indian Wolves, Striped Hyenas, Chinkara, raptors, and other wildlife uniquely adapted to life in the desert. Evenings beneath the clear desert sky provide a memorable conclusion to the expedition.
Depart from Jaisalmer following an unforgettable journey through India’s most diverse landscapes.
Guests wishing to expand their adventure may continue to Ranthambhore for Bengal Tigers, Gir National Park for Asiatic Lions, or the Himalayas in search of the elusive Snow Leopard—creating one of the world’s most comprehensive wild cat expeditions.
Expedition Narrative
India’s Small Wild Cats Expedition is unlike any other wildlife journey, revealing the hidden lives of four extraordinary feline species that few travellers ever have the privilege to observe in the wild.
The adventure begins among the wetlands surrounding Kolkata, where the secretive Fishing Cat silently patrols waterways under the cover of darkness. From there, the open grasslands of Velavadar introduce the graceful Jungle Cat, thriving among Blackbuck herds and expansive golden plains.
The journey then leads into the granite hills of Jawai, where the tiny Rusty-spotted Cat shares its rugged home with the region’s celebrated Leopards. Finally, the immense landscapes of the Thar Desert reveal the remarkable Desert Cat, perfectly adapted to survive one of India’s harshest environments.
Each destination showcases a unique ecosystem and a remarkable story of adaptation, creating an expedition that goes far beyond traditional safaris. Rich in wildlife, landscapes, and authentic wilderness experiences, this is one of the most specialised and rewarding natural history journeys available anywhere in the world.
Why Choose This Expedition
| City | Hotel Name | Meal Plan | No of Nights | No of Safaris |
| Kolkata | Oberoi Grand | Breakfast only | 3N | 2 |
| Velavadar National Park | Black Buck Safari Lodge | All meals | 4N | 7 |
| Ahmedabad | Taj Vivanta | Breakfast only | 1N | – |
| Jawai | Aaramgah by Radisson | All meals | 5N | 8 |
| Desert National Park | Kurja Resort | All meals | 5N | 8 |
Payment terms: 30% to confirm, balance due 90 days prior to departure
Cancellation Policy: 30% non-refundable, balance is non-refundable once paid
Safari bookings open on different dates for different parks, if deadline for booking is not met, the rates will change. Hotel prices are dynamic which is subject to change and based on availability of mentioned room, base room category and also time of travel.
