India is a land of diverse cultures, religions and topography. One such unique and fascinating
terrain is the Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert. Spread across the states of
Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana and Punjab, this arid landscape covers an area of approximately
200,000 square kilometres. The Thar Desert is an excellent tourist destination that offers an
unforgettable experience of exploring the mystique and majesty of the desert.
A Thar Desert tour in India is an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional culture of the desert, explore the stunning landscapes and witness the unique flora and fauna that call this region their home. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff or a nature lover, the Thar Desert tour will cater to all your interests.
The best time to visit Thar Desert
The Thar Desert is a region of extreme temperatures, with scorching hot summers and freezing winters. The best time to visit the Thar Desert is during the winter months (from October to March) when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. The winter season is also an excellent time to attend the various festivals and events held in the region, such as the Desert Festival of Jaisalmer, the Marwar Festival of Jodhpur and the Pushkar Camel Fair.
Getting to Thar Desert
The Thar Desert is accessible by air, rail and road. The nearest airports are in Jodhpur and Jaipur, which are well-connected to other major cities in India. Jodhpur and Jaisalmer offer the two primary railway stations in the region. If you prefer to travel by road, the national highways connect major cities such as Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner and Jaisalmer.
6 places to visit in Thar Desert
Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is known as the “Golden City” due to the golden hues of the sandstone used in its architecture. This medieval city is home to some of the most magnificent forts and havelis (traditional mansions) in India. The Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the Sonar Qila, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the few living forts in the world. The fort is made of yellow sandstone and has several temples, palaces and shops within its walls. The havelis of Jaisalmer, such as Patwon ki Haveli, Nathmal ki Haveli, and Salim Singh ki Haveli, are architectural marvels that depict the opulence and grandeur of the bygone era.
Sam Sand Dunes
The Sam Sand Dunes are located approximately 40 kilometres from Jaisalmer and are a must-visit destination for anyone touring the Thar Desert. These magnificent sand dunes offer a stunning view of the sunset and sunrise, making this a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. You can enjoy camel rides, jeep safaris and quad biking adventures in the dunes.
Khuri Village
Khuri is a small village located near Jaisalmer and offers a unique experience of desert life. You can witness the daily routine of the locals, including their farming and handicrafts. You can also enjoy the cultural performances, including folk music and dance, and savour the traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
Osian
Osian is a small town located approximately 65 kilometers from Jodhpur, and it’s known for its ancient Jain and Hindu temples. The town has several sand dunes and is an excellent destination for camel safaris and desert camping.
Bikaner
Bikaner is a historic city located in the northern part of the Thar Desert. It’s known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. The Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace and Karni Mata Temple are some of the popular tourist destinations in Bikaner. The Junagarh Fort is a well-preserved fort with intricate carvings and stunning architecture. Lalgarh Palace is a magnificent palace that was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in memory of his father, and it now serves as a luxury hotel. Karni Mata Temple, also known as the “Temple of Rats,” is a unique temple where rats are worshipped and protected.
Pushkar
Pushkar is a small town located near Ajmer that’s famous for its holy lake and Brahma Temple. The Pushkar Lake is considered one of the most sacred lakes in India, and taking a dip in the lake during the Pushkar Camel Fair is believed to wash away one’s sins. The Brahma Temple is the only temple in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe. The Pushkar Camel Fair, held annually in November, is one of the biggest cultural events in Rajasthan and is a must-visit for anyone touring the Thar Desert.
7 fun activities in Thar Desert
A Thar Desert tour offers a plethora of activities to keep you engaged and entertained throughout your stay. Some of the popular activities include:
Camel safaris
A camel safari is one of the most popular activities in the Thar Desert. You’ll ride on the back of a camel through the sand dunes and villages of the desert. The camels are well-trained and are used to carrying tourists, so it’s a safe and comfortable experience. You’ll see stunning views of the desert and get a chance to interact with the locals. You can choose a short camel ride or an overnight safari, where you can camp under the stars and witness the beauty of the desert at night.
Jeep safaris
Jeep safaris are an excellent way to explore the desert at a faster pace. You can opt for a half-day or full-day safari, and explore the sand dunes, villages and historical sites.
Hot air balloon rides
Hot air balloon rides offer a unique perspective of the desert and its stunning landscapes. You can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the sand dunes, villages and historical sites from the comfort of a hot air balloon.
Desert camping
Spending a night in the Thar Desert is an experience you’ll never forget. Many tour companies offer camping options, during which you’ll sleep under the stars in the middle of the desert. Before sleeping, you’ll sit around a campfire, listening to traditional music and watching the sunset over the dunes, and it’s a magical experience that will stay with you forever.
Cultural performances
The Thar Desert is home to a rich cultural heritage, and attending cultural performances is an excellent way to experience the traditional Rajasthani culture. You can witness the colourful folk dances, listen to the soulful folk music and savour the traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
Wildlife sightings
The Thar Desert is home to a variety of wildlife, including desert foxes, chinkara gazelles and blackbucks. You may also see peacocks, partridges and other birds. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a leopard or a desert cat.
Village visits
The Thar Desert is home to many small villages, where the people have a unique way of life. On a village visit, you’ll get a chance to learn about their culture, customs and traditions. You’ll see how they make their living and get a taste of their delicious food.
What to pack for the Thar Desert
When you’re packing for your Thar Desert tour, keep in mind that you’ll be in a hot and dry environment. Here are some essentials to bring:
- Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun.
- A hat to keep your head cool.
- Loose, comfortable clothing to keep you cool and protect your skin from the sun.
- Closed-toe shoes to protect your feet from the sand and rocks.
- A water bottle to stay hydrated.
- A camera to capture the stunning landscapes and experiences.
More tips for your Thar Desert tour
Here are some tips to follow to make the most of your Thar Desert tour:
- Book your tour in advance to ensure availability.
- Choose a reputable tour company with good reviews.
- Dress appropriately for the weather and environment.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Respect the local culture and customs.
- Leave no trace—take all of your trash with you when you leave.
A journey of a lifetime
A Thar Desert tour in India will be the journey of a lifetime as it offers you the chance to explore the mystique and majesty of the desert. From the stunning landscapes and unique flora and fauna to the rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life, the Thar Desert tour caters to all your interests. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff or a nature lover, the Thar Desert tour will leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on your journey to the mystical and majestic Thar Desert of India.
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