Guide to a Visit to Desert National Park

The Desert National Park is one of the most fascinating places for wildlife lovers. Home to a myriad variety of exotic birds and animals, it reflects the diverse ecosystem of the Thar Desert. While Rajasthan has other famous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, the ecosystem of the Desert National Park Jaisalmer is different from the others. Dotted with sand dunes, the 3,000 square kilometre area is the habitat of black bucks, chinkaras, desert foxes and cats and the endangered Great Indian Bustard.

Tourists from all over the country and around the world, visit this place to witness its natural beauty. It is also a paradise for bird watchers. Countless varieties of rare and exotic bird species can be spotted at the park. Birds such as the Saker Falcon, Partridges, Eastern Imperial Eagle. It also attracts a large number of migratory birds. To get the best view of this amazing landscape, you can choose camel rides or a thrilling jeep ride through the dunes.

The Desert National Park Rajasthan is one of the largest in India and every year, tourists flock to this area to be mesmerised by the Thar Desert’s unique beauty. With plenty of activities to try during the wildlife safari, it can be an excellent destination to enjoy an adventurous trip.

Best Time to Visit

Unlike cold desert national parks, the dry hot summers of the Thar Desert are not suitable for wildlife safaris. The best time to visit the park is, therefore, between November and March. Tourists generally start visiting from October and the cooler months are perfect for bird watching in the desert. If you are trying to spot a particular bird species, enquire about the most specific timings for bird watching before planning your next trip to Jaisalmer.

How to get there

Jaisalmer is connected to all parts of the country by rail, road and air transport. You can also book trains from Delhi to Jaisalmer or take interstate buses to easily reach the city. The Desert National Park is 40kms from Jaisalmer and can be easily reached by car or other vehicles. The nearest airport to Jaisalmer is Jodhpur Airport. Tourists can book cabs to reach Jaisalmer or the Desert National Park, as per their convenience.

Birding & Wildlife Safari Package Charges

Wildlife Jeep Safari with Local Naturalist

Experience guided wildlife safaris in Desert National Park, perfect for birdwatchers and photographers.

Package Details

  • Guests per Session: Up to 4
  • Seasons:
    • August to October
    • August to October

  • Safari Timings:
    • August to October: 06:30 AM – 10:30 AM & 03:00 PM – 06:30 PM
    • October to April: 07:00 AM – 11:00 AM & 02:30 PM – 06:00 PM

Pricing

Guest Type Price (Per Session)
For Indian Nationals ₹6,000
For Foreign Nationals ₹10,000

Dunes Delight Desert Adventure

Package Details

  • Price: ₹3,000 per person
  • Duration: 1 Night / 2 Days
  • Stay: Twin-sharing tent on the dunes

What’s Included

  • Overnight stay in a tent (twin-sharing) at Desert National Park
  • Traditional local meals cooked on-site
  • Guided desert walk & birdwatching session
  • Wildlife photography opportunities
  • Sunrise and sunset view experience

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival & Desert Experience

  • Morning: Arrival and check-in at the desert tent accommodation
  • Afternoon: Watch or join traditional local food preparation by the community
  • Evening: Guided photography session with birdwatching & desert wildlife spotting. Opportunity to capture sunset and night-sky photography.

Day 2: Sunrise & Departure

  • Early Morning: Witness the desert sunrise with a serene photography session
  • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast in the dunes
  • Check-Out: Depart with unforgettable memories

Notes:

  • Optional add-ons: Camel safari, local village visit, extended stay (extra cost)
  • Package can be customised for groups or special preferences

Places to Visit in Desert National Park

The Desert National Park is ideal for camps and bonfires, especially during the winter season. As the temperature drops at night, it creates an ideal atmosphere for spending time around a soothing bonfire or enjoy an evening in the desert.

There are a number of places to visit in Jaisalmer, in close proximity to the Desert National Park.

Sam Sand Dunes

It is a popular sightseeing destination. With the desert stretching as far as the eye goes, it is an absolute delight to watch the sunrise or sunset here. Local villagers also sing and dance to entertain tourists.

Gadesar Lake

The lake is a rainwater conservatory that is used to provide water to the nearby regions during droughts. On the banks of the enthralling lake you can spot different types of birds. It also has small temples in its vicinity with beautiful carvings.

Jaisalmer Fort

Popularly referred to as Sonar Quila, the Jaisalmer Fort is one of the major attractions of this region. The fortress was built by the Rajputs and the imposing structure stands testimony to India’s historic past.

Bada Bagh: The Bada Bagh is a popular tourist destination where people also visit the Jait Sar Tank and the Jait Bandh.

Patwon ki Haveli

Renowned for its ornate wall paintings and intricate sandstone carvings, it is the largest residential building in the area. It consists of five small havelis and the red sandstone structure is an architectural marvel that tourists must check out during their visit to Jaisalmer.

Auto rickshaws and cabs are available for travelling in and around Jaisalmer. Different types of accommodation options are available in the city and you can choose places based on your budget and preference.

Lockdown Restrictions

As the number of Coronavirus cases continues to decline, lockdown restrictions have been lifted. Wildlife safari at the Desert National Park is permitted only in registered vehicles and the forest department has taken adequate precautions to sanitize the jeeps. Desert National Park guides are also following Covid-appropriate behaviour to keep the tourists safe.

Musa Khan is one of the most renowned guides at the Desert National Park. Being a local resident, he has extensive knowledge of the local ecosystem and acts as a link between the forest department and the villagers. He can easily identify difficult to spot birds and can recognise more than 200 birds. He can also provide detailed information about their behaviour, migratory patterns, differences in plumage etc. As a result, experts sought his help to find rare birds at the park.

FAQ

  • When is the best time to travel to the Desert National Park?

    October to March is the most preferable time for visiting the Desert National Park. It is also the best time to spot different birds and animals found in Thar Desert.

  • Should I take a guide for the wildlife safari?

    A guide is your best companion during the wildlife safari. Experienced people like Musa Khan will not only help you to spot different birds and animals but, will also make the trip fun-filled and memorable.

  • What should I carry?

    Taking into consideration the weather condition in the desert, you must be equipped with the right accessories for the trip. Carry hats, scarves and sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and sand. Wear comfortable, full-sleeved shirts or t-shirts, trousers and comfortable sneakers. Keep a medical kit handy for any emergency and store essentials in a backpack that you can always carry.

  • Is it necessary to book early?

    The wildlife safaris are always in demand and to get accommodation in good hotels near the Desert National Park, you need to book early. Besides, the guides also tend to be booked early. So, plan your trip beforehand for the best experience.

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