About Thar Desert
The mighty Thar Desert, also sometimes sobriquet the Great Indian Desert, is
located in the western part of India mostly in the state of
Rajasthan
and extending to parts of Haryana, Punjab and
Gujarat.
Bounded by river Sutlej on the northwest, Aravali range on the east, Rann of
Kutch on the south and river Indus on the west, the sprawling sands cover an
area of about 200,000 sq. km. The salt marsh known as the Rann of Kutch is
often included as a part of the great desert making its total area variable.
The golden sands of the Thar cover over three-fifths of the total area of
the entire state of Rajasthan.
Origin of Thar Desert
The exact origin and the reasons of forming of the desert are a subject of
debate and people believe it to be around 4000 to 10,000 years old with
others having the opinion that the area may have turned into a desert
relatively recently around 2000 to 1500 B.C. Ghaggar river, which now
terminates into the desert, is believed to have been a major river during
that time with climatic changes playing a hand in drying it up and
subsequently turning the region into an arid desert.
Major Cities in Thar Desert
Jaisalmer
Also known as the Golden city, Jaisalmer, situated in the western Indian
state of Rajasthan is known for its close proximity to the Thar Desert.
Desert safari in the endless sand dunes of Jaisalmer is an unforgettable and
a must try experience. Other famous attractions of the city include the
mammoth Jaisalmer Fort, which unlike many other forts in India is a living
fort and houses several shops, hotels and age old havelis of tourist
interest inside its towering ramparts.
Bikaner
Bikaner is exactly what you would expect a desert city to be like. Its
close proximity to the Thar Desert and endless courses of imposing palaces,
richly sculptured temples and fine creations of Rajput civilisation make it
a complete vacationing experience. The major tourist attractions of the
place include the Junagarh Fort, Lallgarh Palace, Prachina Museum, Laxminath
temple and the ancient havelis.
Do Not Miss Out On
Camel Safari
The
best way to acquaint yourself with the diversities of the desert is to
become a part of it and camel safari is the ideal way to do it. Travel to
the interiors of the desert and witness charming little villages and the
amazing hospitality of people in trying conditions. Camp at night under the
star lit sky and have local food cooked on makeshift stoves made of wood and
charcoal...an amazing experience.
Jeep Safari
Big open roofed jeeps are a wonderful way of experiencing the life of
Rajasthan, especially during the winter months when the warm rays of sun
amidst the cool breeze makes for a heady combination. Jeep safari makes
travelling on rough roads easy and helps the traveller explore things as
less developed tribal regions, tiny villages, ruins of ancient forts and
temples.
Sand Dunes
Created by the games of wind, the sand dunes of Rajasthan have an amazing
charm about them that can even overshadow its most amazing forts and
palaces. Often visitors with less time on their hand prefer to witness the
beauty of these endless sand dunes to that of the numerous historic
structures. The best way to explore the sand dunes around Jaisalmer is to
take a camel or jeep safari.
Quaint Villages
A typical Rajasthani village is difficult to spot till one actually gets
there. The simplest of villages with the most basic forms of civilisation
have probably remained unchanged for years and present a lifestyle which is
totally laid back and untouched by the more modern cities around. The
hospitality of the villagers towards the guests is amazing considering the
harsh climatic conditions the people here are subject to.
Stay At
Staying options at Jaisalmer range from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
Besides, if you opt for a camel safari package stretching over a few days,
then you get to spend the night at desert camps and local villages while
sleeping under a star lit sky and being treated by the most basic amenities.
Some of the quality hotels at Jaisalmer include Rajwansh Resorts, Hotel
Narayan Niwas Palace, Hotel Heritage Inn, Fort Rajwada and Hotel Deoki Niwas
Palace.
Getting There and Moving Around
By
Air : A domestic airport is located just 5 km from the city but is
mostly used for military purposes, other than the months of September to
March when domestic passenger flights are also operational. Another nearest
airport is located at Jodhpur which is conveniently connected with cities
like Jaipur, Mumbai and Delhi. The international visitors are advised to fly
to Delhi and catch a flight or train to Jaisalmer from there.
By Rail : Jaisalmer Railway Station is located just 5 km
out of the city. Regular trains such as the IJPJ Exp. and the Jodhpur Exp.
are available between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, a convenient overnight journey.
A daily train between Delhi and Jaisalmer is the DLI JSM Exp., departing
from Delhi station at 17:45 and reaching Jaisalmer at 13:00, the next day.
Another option is to travel by the luxury Palace on Wheels for which we can
get you advance bookings.
By Road : The bus stand at Jaisalmer is located just
outside the railway station. State transport buses ply regularly between
Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner, Barmer, Mount Abu, Jalore etc.
Moving Around : When hiring an unmetered means of
commutation, be sure to bargain and if possible get a prior idea of fares.
Another way of travelling inside the city is to hire a bicycle which can be
hired from places like Gandhi Chowk. Jeeps can also be hired from here.
Distances from Major Cities
