Desert National Park – Barmer, Jaisalmer
When pondering national parks or wildlife sanctuaries, one often envisions a serene environment teeming with lush greenery, trees, bushes, ponds, waterfalls, and other natural elements that enhance its beauty. However, have you ever considered that there is a specific national park in Rajasthan located amidst an arid, dry, and sandy desert? If your answer is no, then it is highly recommend a visit to the Desert National Park nestled within the majestic Thar Desert. Situated in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan, this expansive sandy paradise spans across the towns of Jaisalmer and Barmer district. Despite its sparse and harsh environment, the Desert National Park is truly breathtaking and offers a one-of-a-kind wildlife viewing experience.
The vast Desert National Park, spanning 3162 sq km, may appear to be a field of nothingness at first glance, with 44 percent of its area covered by dunes. The dunes make up approximately 20% of the park, with the rest of the area covered in thorny bushes, cacti, and various desert plants. For those interested in exploring the diverse wildlife of the Desert National Park, embarking on an adventurous jeep safari is a must-to-do activity for a truly exhilarating experience as the jeep navigates through the vast dunes on a 12 km trail, completing the journey in approximately 30 minutes. Another popular activity in Desert National Park is the camel safari where you can ride on the rolling dunes and barren plains witnessing the beautiful sunset.
One of the most popular attractions of the Desert National Park is the presence of fossils from the Jurassic Period, offering a glimpse into a vastly different world from the one we know today. Visitors get to see a fascinating collection of fossils dating back over 180 million years, including some from dinosaurs that lived around 6 million years ago.
After centuries of desertification, the land now boasts scanty vegetation yet an abundance of birdlife. The arid region is home to a remarkable array of birds, and a best spot for birdwatchers from around the globe. The park serves as a sanctuary for both migratory and resident desert birds, particularly raptors such as the Short-toed eagle, tawny eagle, spotted eagle, laggar falcon, and kestrel. To truly grasp the Thar Desert ecosystem, a visit to Desert National Park is essential.
Desert National Park fee list
Desert National Park visiting time –
10.00 AM to 5.00 PM.
Entry Fees
Rs. 100 for Indians, Rs.300 for foreigners
Jeep Safari –
Rs.100 per person
Camel Ride –
Rs.100 – 200
Guide Fee – (if required)
Rs. 200
Best time to visit Desert National Park
October to March is the best time to explore Desert National Park, with cooler temperatures making it the perfect time for bird watching and immersing oneself in the tranquil desert surroundings.
How to reach Desert National Park:
By Air : Jaisalmer airport is the nearest to reach Desert National Park covering 61 km.
By Train :Jaisalmer railway station is the nearest junction to reach Desert National Park Covering 45 km
By Road :The best and easiest ways to reach Desert National Park is driving from Jaisalmer via Jaisalmer - Sam - Dhanana Rd covering 47 KM. Driving from Jodhpur Jodhpur via Bikaner - Agra Rd and RJ SH 45 is also the best option to reach Desert National Park covering 330 Km.
FAQ
1. In which district Desert National Park is located?
Desert National Park is located in Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan.
2. What is the distance between Jaisalmer Fort and Desert National Park?
Jaisalmer Fort is located 47 km away from Desert National Park
3. Why is desert National Park very famous?
Desert National Park is famous for being on the tentative list of India, a necessary step towards potential inclusion in the esteemed World Heritage List.
4. How many hours it will take to explore Band Baretha Wildlife Sanctuary?
It would take roughly around 2-3 hours to explore Desert National Park
5. What is the best activity in Desert National Park?
Jeep safari and Camel Rides are the best activities in Desert National Park.