Located in the the extreme western corner of India is the fascinating state of Rajasthan. And one its major tourist attractions is the incomparable Desert National Park near Jaisalmer city. It is said to be one of the largest national parks in India, spread across an area of 3162 sq. km. (1221 sq. mi.). Part of the famous Thar desert, this national park is the ideal place to observe Thar’s unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife. The park basically comprises massive and continuous sand dunes, compacted salt lake beds, and sharp rocks, all coming together to form an impressive landscape. And in this harsh desert environment survive a myriad number of plants, birds, and animals. Visitors can enjoy a range of experiences here including riding the sand dunes on a camel or jeep safari, bird-watching, camping, etc. To make the most of your time here, take a look at our guide to Desert National Park, Jaisalmer.
Things to do/Highlights
Enjoy bird-watching
Desert National Park is a bird-watcher’s paradise. It is home to an impressive number of native and migratory birds, about 120 species in all. Bird-watching can be enjoyed the most from December to February. One of the star birds to see here is the endangered Great Indian bustard, considered to be one of the heaviest flight birds on earth. Visitors can also spot vultures, falcons, larks, wheatears, partridges, sandgrouse, honey buzzards, etc. Migratory birds like Eastern Imperial eagle, Saker falcon, Eurasian and Himalayan griffon vultures can also be seen in the winter months. The best places to spot the birds are near ponds and waterholes in the park.
Embark on a camel or jeep safari
One of the most popular things to do at Desert National Park is to go on a camel or jeep safari. Several camel herders ply through the park and one can easily negotiate a suitable price for a camel safari through the sand dunes of the desert. It is a relaxed way of seeing the magnificent sand dunes of the desert and the brightly attired camel will add some colourful charm to your safari experience. If you are lucky, you might even spot a blackbuck or chinkara along the way. An adventurous way of seeing the park is via a jeep safari. You get to go sand dune bashing and click amazing shots of the breathtaking desert scenery. For thrill-seekers, a jeep safari offers the ultimate way of enjoying the desert as they hang on tight to the jeep railings for the ride of a lifetime!
Go camping in the desert
For those who wish to spend more than just a few hours in the desert, camping among the sand dunes of Desert National Park is the best option. Plenty of camp operators and hotels can arrange for overnight camping facilities for you, including transport to and from the desert, tent accommodation, food, bonfire, and entertainment. Take a leisurely stroll through the sand dunes, gorge on yummy Rajasthani food, listen to folk songs around the bonfire and fall asleep while marvelling at the countless stars of the desert sky. You can even pitch your own tent in the sand dunes and enjoy the peace and quiet away from the city. Sunrise and sunset views are added bonuses of camping in the desert.
Travellers tips
Time your visit
The best time to visit Desert National Park is in the winter months of October to March when the weather is the most suitable for enjoying the beauty of the desert. Days are pleasant and sunny and nights are cool. The summer months of April to June are extremely hot, with daytime temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) and hence, not advisable for a visit.
Dress for the weather
Care must always be taken to dress in accordance with the weather and season at the time of your visit. If visiting in winter, it is best to dress in layers. Wear a hat, sunglasses, full-sleeved shirt, and full pants in the day time to protect yourself from the harsh sunlight. Carry warm clothes if you wish to spend the night camping in the desert since temperatures are known to drop below freezing in the winter. The desert can get quite windy at times so carry a scarf to cover your nose and mouth.
How to get there
Combination of private and public transport
Jaisalmer Railway Station is the closest railhead from Desert National Park. Visitors can reach this station from various other cities via inter-state trains, including the uber-luxurious ‘Palace on Wheels’ train. Visitors can also reach Jaisalmer via public bus services within Rajasthan and from other states. The main bus stand is situated right outside the railway station and another one in the city called Golden Bus Terminal. From there, you can take a taxi or auto rickshaw to reach the park.
Taxi and auto rickshaw
Taking a taxi or auto rickshaw are the easiest way to reach Desert National Park from Jaisalmer and other cities in Rajasthan like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, etc. Auto rickshaws can be easily hired from anywhere in Jaisalmer. Taxis are also conveniently available and private as well as government-operated taxis can be taken to reach the park. Government-operated taxis are more reliable since they will provide accurate fares.
Private car
Desert National Park is well-connected to Jaisalmer by proper roads. Thus, driving your own car or a rental one to reach the park is a convenient option. Driving directions are also easily available.
Parking information
If you are going through a desert camp operator, you can park your car at a spot provided by them. Parking can also be done at the entrance of the park.
How to book tickets
The best and only way to book tickets to the park is on-site at the entrance area. The entry fee is 1.40 USD (INR 100), with the same amount of additional charges for a jeep safari and 2.80 USD (INR 200) as guide fees. If you wish to go on a camel safari, you can negotiate for a suitable price with the numerous camel herders present at the entrance of the park.
Desert National Park information
Desert National Park
Address: Myajlar Road, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001, India
Opening hours: 7am - 5pm (daily)
Cost: 1.40 USD
Department of tourism: Visit Rajasthan
History
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