Think of the desert and the 1st place in India that pops up is none other than Jaisalmer. This Golden City of Rajasthan is also home to exuberant forts and glorious palaces. But it is the charm of the bounteous golden sand dunes and desert safaris that attract majority of visitors into this beautiful city.
Sush and I finally got to fulfill our long pending dream of desert camping in Jaisalmer and we are still drooling over all that we experienced. We watched the most seductive sunset over the golden sand dunes, slept under a sky full of stars, luxuriated in the most graceful folk performances and had a thrilling dune bashing escapade. And behind all this was hours of research and browsing that helped us plan this trip in the best possible way. So here is all you need to know for planning that perfect desert getaway in Jaisalmer.
Best time to Visit Jaisalmer
Oct – Dec (excluding the Christmas Holidays): This is the best time to plan your desert trip. The days are not too harsh and nights are moderately cold. The crowd would not have arrived by this time, so it is much more peaceful and exclusive.
Jan-Feb: The winter months are also a good time to visit. But expect more crowd and very cold mornings and nights.
Our time of Visit: Mid Jan
Avoid summer months as the days are too hot.
Deciding on the location
Let’s address the 1st question about desert camping – WHERE.
There are 2 popular villages in the Thar Desert that provide overnight camping and desert safaris – Khuri and Sam. Where Khuri provides a more rustic experience with houses made of mud and straws for accommodation, Sam is popular among visitors for its numerous campsites and their proximity to the sand dunes. So it is up to you to choose any of these 2 suiting your taste. We chose Sam for our stay.
What to expect from desert camping in Jaisalmer
Sunset that feels like magic
Desert sunsets are nothing short of magical. As the evening sun paints everything around in a dreamy orange hue, it feels as if the desert has become one with the sky. Then it gradually turns into a deep red fireball vanishing across the horizon leaving everyone in a state of haze. The providers normally ferry the guests to the desert around 4pm so that you can enjoy dessert safari and end your day with the sunset.
Desert Safaris and Adventure Activities
There are basically 2 options for desert safaris – Camel Safari and Jeep Safari. Camel Safari will always be part of your package. Normally it is a 15 minute (approx.) camel ride over the dunes, but you can always pay extra and check out the the farther end of the desert.
If you are an adventurous soul, Jeep Safari is something you should definitely opt for. This comes at an extra cost 1000 INR. But the thrill of bashing the sun-kissed sand dunes in an open jeep (and thumping hearts ) is absolutely unparalleled and totally worth the money. Do remember this might not be suitable for old people, very small kids and people with neck or spinal problems.
Evening laced with Traditional Performances
Evenings in the desert camps are the most zestful imbued with traditional music and dance performances. Seating arrangement is made in an open area of the camp where local artists perform different Rajasthani art forms. Whether it is the eloquent “Padharo Mhare Desh” song or the incredible Bhavai Dance, all performances are bound to regale your senses.
Starry nights and Tranquil Mornings
The mornings and nights in the desert are extremely beautiful. Nights come with starry skies and mornings start with scattered colours of the sunrise. These are perfect times to slow down and enjoy the tranquil surrounding setting aside all the worries. You can also opt for a sunrise trip to the sand dunes (at additional cost). Read More……
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