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A camel rider on the dunes near Jaisalmer

Desert reserve · Jaisalmer

Desert National Park, Jaisalmer

A vast reserve of dunes, scrub and salt lakes in the Thar, home to the rare Great Indian Bustard.

LocationNear Jaisalmer and Barmer
AreaAbout 3,160 sq km
Famous forGreat Indian Bustard
Best timeNovember – March

The story

A little history.

Declared in 1980, Desert National Park is one of the largest national parks in India. It protects a fragile landscape of dunes, rocky ground and grassland on the western edge of the Thar.

It is one of the last strongholds of the Great Indian Bustard, one of the world's most endangered birds. Desert foxes, chinkara gazelles, desert cats and many birds of prey also live here.

What to see

Don't miss.

  • Great Indian BustardA large, critically endangered bird, best looked for with a local guide.
  • Akal Wood Fossil ParkFossilised tree trunks around 180 million years old, about 17 km from Jaisalmer.
  • SudasariAn area of the park known for its grassland and wildlife.
  • Desert wildlifeChinkara, desert foxes and raptors such as eagles and falcons.

Our tip: Entry needs a permit, which we arrange. Combine the park with a night at a desert camp.

Good to know

Questions travellers ask.

How big is Desert National Park?

About 3,160 square kilometres, making it one of the largest national parks in India.

Can I see the Great Indian Bustard?

Sightings are possible but not guaranteed, as very few birds remain.

Do I need a permit?

Yes. Permits are needed for most of the park, and we arrange them for you.

More in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer city guideJaisalmer Fort (Sonar Qila)Patwon ki HaveliNathmal ki HaveliJaisalmer Desert Festival

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