Deserts in Rajasthan For An Exotic Indian Experience

Located in the northwestern part of the Indian Subcontinent is the 18th largest desert in the world, called the Thar desert. Also named “The Great Indian Desert”, it is a vast expanse of undulating sand dunes spread over an area of 200,000 square km. While a major chunk of the desert is present in Rajasthan, it extends further to the states of Gujarat, Haryana and Punjab in India and to the Pakistani province of Sindh as well. Owing to its diverse ecosystem, the region is teeming with wide varieties of flora and fauna and a rich human culture that attracts tourists from all over the world, making Thar a spectacle to behold.

Known For : Jaisalmer Fort Desert Safari in Jaisalmer Gadisar Lake

Best Time: October to March

39 Jaisalmer Attractions

Known For : Junagarh Fort Karni Mata Temple Gajner Palace

Located in the midst of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, Bikaner is a "cultural paradise and a traveller's haven". The city will mesmerize you with the camels sauntering its beautiful sand dunes and captivate you with its ancient palaces and forts. Rightly called as one of the three great of the desert kingdoms of Rajasthan, the dazzling city boasts of old-world charm, opulent havelis and depicts a pleasing bygone era of the Rajputs. Best known as the "camel country" for breeding some best-knownn riding camels, Bikaner also happens to house one of the only two models of the biplane used by the British in World War 1.

Best Time: October to March

23 Bikaner Attractions

Known For : Sand Dune Village Khimsar Fort The Village

Famous for the Nagaur Festival, Khimsar is a small village in the state of Rajasthan, Ideal for a relaxed weekend getaway in the winters. Perched on the edge of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, Khimsar is famous for its golden sand dunes and its magnificent fort Khimsar Fort. Camel safaris on the sand dunes, leisure activities like campfires, folk dance and songs take place at night for the visitors.

Best Time: November to February

4 Khimsar Attractions

Known For : Kumbhalgarh Fort Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary Badal Mahal, Kumbhalgarh

Famous for its gigantic snake-like fortress, Kumbalgarh town is yet another feather in Rajasthan’s royal cap. The historic town is renowned for its majestic monuments, extravagant palaces, an array of temples and flamboyant chattris. The Kumbhalgarh fort is the second most important fort of Rajasthan and is a truly magnificent sight. The charming location of the fort at the foothills of pebbly Aravalli hills increases the overall appeal of the place and giving it a stunning topography for a desert in Rajasthan.

Best Time: October to March

7 Kumbhalgarh Attractions

Known For : Mehrangarh Fort Umaid Bhawan Palace Camel Safari

Also, known as the "Gateway to Thar", it is famous for its Mehrangarh fort, blue houses, temples, sweets and snacks. Apart from the fort, there are multiple temples, lakes, shopping streets that are like a mirage from a bygone era. Jodhpur allows you to spend your day trekking on the glades of the rocky mountains and get adventurous in this desert in Rajasthan.

Best Time: November to February

44 Jodhpur Attractions

Known For : Pushkar Lake Brahma Temple Savitri Temple

Pushkar, the city often referred to as the ‘rose garden of Rajasthan’ is a city of culture and intellect. Nothing can describe this iconic city better than a sought-after destination that provides the essence of Pushkar roses, the charm of culturally vibrant atmosphere and the dynamic festivities make it one hot cultural spot. The west wind of Pushkar gives an easygoing vibe of Westwood lifestyle in the hot sandstone town. The home of the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world, it is one of the ultimate pilgrimages for Hindus to attain divine spiritual bliss. A place of holy spirit for Hindus, ample ghats are flooded with devotees, closing eyes in the serenity of chants coming from temples around. A soothing and calm place with the glitter of spirituality makes Pushkar a must visit.

Best Time: October to March

21 Pushkar Attractions

Known For : Chittorgarh Fort Padmini Palace Kalika Mata Temple

A depository of ancient monuments, an extremely rich heritage, and an immortal folklore boasting of its majestic glory, every building in Chittorgarh still reverberates with the history of its sacrifice and heroism. The capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, Chittorgarh is a land of forts, citadels, ruins, and evergreen stories. Situated in the South Eastern corner of Rajasthan, Chittorgarh stands at the helm of Chattari Rajput pride, and is remembered in the pages of history for its glorious battles, especially the siege of Alauddin Khilji. Once known for its grandeur and opulence, today, Chittorgarh has left its tales of bravery and betrayal far behind to catch up to commercialization, but those stories of splendour and magnificence will never be forgotten.

Best Time: October to March

19 Chittorgarh Attractions

Known For : Taragarh Fort Moti Mahal, Bundi Badal Mahal, Bundi

A princely state for a princely stay, in the northwest of India, lies the district of Bundi, in the Hadoti region of the royal state of Rajasthan. In ancient times, the area around Bundi was apparently inhabited by various local tribes.

Best Time: October to March

14 Bundi Attractions

Known For : Ajmer Sharif Dargah Ana Sagar Lake Adhai Din ka Jhopra

Surrounded by Aravali ranges, the city of Ajmer is most famous for its Dargah Sharif of saint Muin-ud-din Chishti. Firmly bound by its traditions and culture, Ajmer has a unique charm which lies in the ethos and craftsmanship practised over centuries. Visit Ajmer to witness the exquisite Mughal architecture set in an aura of peace and spirituality.

Best Time: October to March

23 Ajmer Attractions