DESERT SAFARI IN JAISALMER

1. Types of Desert Safaris:

• Camel Safari: The most popular way to explore the desert. You ride on a camel as the guide takes you through the sand dunes, offering a taste of traditional desert life. Camel safaris can last a few hours to a full day or more.
• Jeep Safari: For those who prefer a faster and more adventurous way to explore the desert, jeep safaris are available. This option allows you to cover more ground and enjoy the thrill of speeding through the dunes.
• Overnight Safari: You can embark on an overnight camel safari, where you'll camp in the desert under the stars. The experience often includes a traditional Rajasthani dinner and cultural performances like folk music and dance around a campfire.

2. Popular Safari Destinations:

• Sam Sand Dunes: Located about 40 km from Jaisalmer, Sam is famous for its vast golden sand dunes. It is the most popular spot for camel rides and jeep safaris. The dunes provide a stunning backdrop for sunset views.
• Kuldhara Village: An ancient, abandoned village near Jaisalmer, which adds a touch of mystery to your desert safari. Some safaris include a visit to this ghost village.
• Khuri Village: A quieter alternative to Sam, Khuri offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience. The sand dunes here are equally beautiful, and the village culture is rustic and less touristy.

3. Things to Experience:

• Sunset and Sunrise: The desert offers some of the most spectacular views of the sun setting and rising over the dunes. These moments are a highlight of any safari.
• Cultural Performances: Many safaris include cultural programs, featuring traditional Rajasthani music, dance, and folk performances by the locals.
• Traditional Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Rajasthani dishes like dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and ker sangri in the midst of the desert.

4. Best Time to Go:

• The best time for a desert safari in Jaisalmer is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is pleasant. Summers (April to June) can be extremely hot, making the safari less enjoyable.

5. How to Book a Safari:

• Desert safaris in Jaisalmer can be booked through hotels, travel agencies, or at the local tour operators in the city. Many resorts near the desert offer packages that include accommodation, meals, and safari tours.

6. Safety Tips:

• Wear comfortable, loose clothing and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Ensure that the safari operator provides well-maintained camels or jeeps and experienced guides to ensure safety during the trip.

o reach Desert Safari in Jaisalmer, here are the main transportation options:

1. By Air:

• The nearest airport to Jaisalmer is Jaisalmer Airport (Code: JSA), located about 17 km from the city center. However, flights to Jaisalmer are limited.
• Alternatively, you can fly to Jodhpur Airport (about 280 km from Jaisalmer), which has better connectivity, and then travel by road to Jaisalmer.
• From Jaisalmer Airport, you can take a taxi or pre-booked transport to the desert safari locations, like Sam Sand Dunes or Khuri village.

2. By Train:

• Jaisalmer Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in India, including Jodhpur, Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai. You can take a train to Jaisalmer and then take a taxi or jeep to the safari starting points, like Sam Sand Dunes (around 40 km from Jaisalmer).
• Jaisalmer station is around 5-10 km from the city center and taxis are easily available to take you to your desert safari destination.

3. By Road:

• By Bus: Regular buses run from Jodhpur (about 280 km), Jaipur (about 570 km), and other major cities in Rajasthan to Jaisalmer. Once you reach the city, you can hire a taxi or jeep to get to the desert safari spots.
• By Car: If you’re traveling by car, Jaisalmer is connected by highways to cities like Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Delhi. The most common routes are via the NH11 or NH15. The journey to Sam Sand Dunes or Khuri will take around 40-50 minutes from the city center.

4. Taxi/Private Vehicle:

• Once in Jaisalmer, it’s easiest to hire a taxi or a private jeep to reach your desert safari destination, like Sam Sand Dunes or Khuri. Many hotels and resorts in Jaisalmer also provide pickup services for safari tours.