rajasthantourdriver - Tumblr blog

[rajasthantourdriver]

Top 5 Desert Sites in Rajasthan

Rajasthan’s desert expanse encompasses the trio of Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Jodhpur, collectively known as the desert triangle. These cities intricately entwine to form a desert circle, rendering Rajasthan the ‘most colorful desert in the world,’ steeped in cultural and historical significance.

Correctly, Rajasthan boasts desert sites, yet the misconception lies in the fact that only 2/5 of the state’s area is desert, specifically in the western region, spanning from Pushkar to Jaisalmer, falling under the Thar desert.

Explore Rajasthan with our recommended tour packages:

Rajasthan Desert Safari Tour

Rajasthan Heritage Tour

Rajasthan Wildlife Tour

Thar Desert

Ranked as the 18th largest desert globally, the Thar Desert spans both India and Pakistan.

Within India’s domain, numerous sand dunes punctuate the landscape, some hosting wild vegetation. However, only about six of these dune areas qualify as authentic desert sites.

By ‘authentic,’ I refer to genuine desert sites in Rajasthan, featuring sand dunes towering between 20 to 50 meters. These locales also facilitate various desert tourism activities like Camel safari, Jeep safari, dune bashing, desert camping, and, in select places, even “Paragliding.”

Moreover, these deserts emerge as prime spots for capturing breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, offering perfect moments for your camera or mobile lens.

In this exploration of Rajasthan’s deserts, I unveil seven authentic desert sand dune sites, each accompanied by a plethora of activities for your enjoyment.

Top 6 Desert Sites in Rajasthan:

Desert in Jaisalmer:

Jaisalmer, situated in the heart of the Thar desert, stands out as one of the finest cities. Here, expansive desert lands host two prominent desert dunes — Sam Sand Dunes and Khuri Sand Dunes.

Both Sam and Khuri boast sand dunes ranging from 30 to 60 meters, drawing travelers from across India, especially Gujarat.

Jaisalmer is not only renowned for its dunes but also for its captivating attractions, including the Golden Fort (Sonar Quila), Gadisar Lake, Amar Sagar, and the Jaisalmer War Museum.

Explore in detail:

Sam Sand Dunes

Khuri Sand Dunes

Desert in Jodhpur:

Jodhpur, located 260 km east of Jaisalmer, holds its own as one of the prominent desert regions in the Thar Desert. Despite green vegetation dominating most of Jodhpur district, the Osian desert emerges as a desert marvel.

Osian, just 70 km from Jodhpur, is famous for its temples (Osian Mata Temple & a Jain temple) and the adjoining desert dunes. The Osian sand dunes attract travelers seeking an authentic desert safari experience, including Jeep Safari and Camel safari.

The secluded ambiance of Osian makes it an ideal choice for a tranquil night stay in desert camps, offering a less crowded alternative to Sam Sand Dunes in Jaisalmer.

How to reach Osian:

Public transport: Bus from Jodhpur

Private transport: Hire a taxi

The best time to visit Osian is around 3–4 pm, allowing for a visit to the Osian Mata Temple followed by camel or Jeep Safari.

Khimsar village:

Situated in central Rajasthan, close to both Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, Nagaur, known for its cattle farms, unveils a hidden gem 45 km south — Khimsar village.

Khimsar boasts the Khimsar Desert Sand Dunes, a small town lying between Jaipur and Jodhpur. Notable attractions include the Khimsar Sand Dune Resort, offering a unique experience with village-themed huts and camel rides in the maintained dune area.

The flat desert area surrounding Khimsar teems with rich wildlife, featuring Desert Fox, Nigai, Blackbucks, Demoiselle Cranes, Partridges, and other species in wildlife sanctuaries.

How to reach Khimsar Sand Dunes:

Taxi from Jodhpur or Jaipur

Train to Nagaur railway station, 45 km north of the dunes.

Khimsar Sand Dunes offer a serene and less tourist-filled experience, making it an alluring destination.

Desert in Bikaner:

Bikaner, a popular tourist city in the heart of the Thar desert, beckons with its Junagarh Palace, Karni Mata temple (home to over 25,000 rats), and the sprawling desert areas just beyond the city.

Bikaner’s deserts, although not towering, spread across a vast area, gaining fame for camel safaris and camping activities. Additionally, Bikaner hosts the Bikaner Camel Festival in January, a must-attend for enthusiasts.

How to reach Bikaner desert dunes:

Most desert camps and safari tours operate in Raisar area, a 15-minute drive from Bikaner city.

Public transport or Bikaner taxi service for a full-day exploration of Bikaner’s attractions, followed by an evening stay in the desert area.

Desert in Pushkar:

Revered as one of the holiest cities for Hindus and a major tourist destination in Rajasthan, Pushkar is encircled by desert sands. While the sand dunes here may not rival the grandeur of Sam Sand Dunes in Jaisalmer, they offer an exceptional opportunity to explore rural villages in Rajasthan.

Activities in the Pushkar desert:

Camel rides

Camel cart exploration of Thar Desert villages

How to reach Pushkar desert dunes:

Nearest train station: Ajmer Junction (around 15 km away)

For those seeking a desert experience near Jaipur, Pushkar desert is an ideal option, just 140 km away.

[rajasthantourdriver]

Full-Day Jaipur Tour Package and Hire a sightseeing taxi in Jaipur. Explore best historical sights and landmarks in Jaipur including City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, Elephants Village and Jal mahal.