Desert National Park
Desert National Park
Desert National Park Overview
Spanning 3,162 sq km (1,221 sq miles) of scrubland and sandy wasteland near the Pakistan border, Desert National Park is a unique and captivating destination. Its most notable resident is the Great Indian Bustard (Choriotis nigriceps), a large bird standing at about 1.2 meters (4 feet) tall. Once on the brink of extinction due to hunting, the population has recovered to around 1,000 birds, and sightings are still possible here. Alongside the bustard, the park is home to sand grouse, various species of falcons and vultures, the elusive desert fox, and the chinkara (Indian gazelle).
Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between October and February. During this period, temperatures range from a comfortable 6°C to 20°C. Light woolen clothing is recommended for these cooler months.
Activities
Wildlife Viewing: The main attractions of Desert National Park are the Great Indian Bustard and the chinkara. For the best wildlife sightings, head to Sudashri, which is a prime location to observe these species and others.
Getting to Sudashri: From Jaisalmer, there are two nearly equal routes to Sudashri: via Sam or Khuri. Since this is a military area, the roads are well-maintained and free of traffic, making the 1.5-hour journey convenient. A jeep is the best mode of transport for navigating the terrain.
Accommodation
- Base Location: Jaisalmer is the ideal place to stay, offering a wide range of hotels.
- Nearby Options: You can also choose to stay in Khuri or Sam, with options available for the high season (October to February). However, it’s recommended to do a day-trip to Sudashri. If you prefer to spend a night or two in Khuri or Sam, be sure to book a jeep from Jaisalmer for the journey.
Accessibility
By Air: The nearest airport is Jodhpur, located 322 km (6 hrs) away, with good connectivity to Khuri.
By Train: Jaisalmer is the closest railway station, situated 42 km (1 hr) from the park.
By Road: While road travel to Jaisalmer can be quite lengthy, it is still a viable option, though train or flight is generally preferable due to the distance.