The Naturalist
Ajay Kumar Prajapat.
Founder and naturalist at Sariska Expeditions. Born around Sariska, with 13 years of naturalist work in Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan.
Recognition
Awards for his wildlife photography.
Consolation award, Jaipur Tiger Festival. Ajay received a consolation award at the Jaipur Tiger Festival for one of his photographs, the first time he has received an award from the festival. In his words: “Honoured and grateful to receive this recognition. It fuels my passion and reminds me of the beauty and stories captured through the lens.”
Third prize, “Capture the Wild at Sariska”. On Global Tiger Day, 2 August 2025, Ajay won third prize in this wildlife photography competition, which drew hundreds of entrants from across the country. His winning photograph shows a tiger in its natural habitat with Kankwari Fort in the landscape.
How He Guides
Reading the forest, respecting the wildlife.
Ajay accompanies guests personally. Here is how he approaches an outing, in his own terms.
Planning each outing
He considers the weather, forest conditions, animal movements and the safety of guests, looks for signs of wildlife, and chooses routes that give a good opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat without disturbing them.
What he hopes guests take away
An appreciation of nature, the chance to observe wildlife in its own habitat, and a deeper respect for forests and the balance of nature. Forests are the natural homes of wildlife, and every animal plays a part in that balance.
For first-time visitors
Be patient, enjoy the Aravalli hills, follow forest rules and respect nature. Every safari is a unique experience, even on a day you don't see a tiger. Sightings are never guaranteed.