If you think that people are only
fascinated by snow-capped mountains and vivacious rivers, your thinking is
absolutely wrong. For, in the far west of Rajasthan, it is an arid desert
called Thar and the adjoining landscape that attracts tourists in large
numbers. And the best way to explore the desert is through desert safaris.
The desert may seem uninteresting to many, but the silence of it and the
tough but unique life of the people living in the nearby areas also holds
many mysteries worth exploring. The desert safari is sure to turn out into
an exhilarating experience.
It may be mentioned that desert safaris are undertaken on horses, camels
and jeeps. Of the three, camel safaris are the most popular. However, jeep
safaris can cover maximum distances and allows tourists better comforts.
The Safari Routes
The main destinations in which safaris are conducted are the desert areas of
Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Pushkar and the Shekhawati regions. Some jeep
safaris also cover wildlife sanctuaries.
Safari Duration
The duration of safaris vary. From a single day to a month or so, there are
various options available to tourists. But the most sought after ones are
one and two week safaris.
The Best Time For Safaris
The safaris are arranged in winters from November to February. As the
desert region becomes very hot during summers, safaris cannot be organised
in summers.
The Camel Safari
Camel Safari is the most unique way to explore the never ending desert and
adjoining small villages. Riding on the camel back may not be easy initially
but becomes very enjoyable once the rider gets accustomed to it. The
advantage of a camel safari is that the animal knows the desert very well
and can vary his walking pace depending on sand types. Moreover, the camel
can walk long distances without showing any signs of discomfort.
Camel safaris are not monotonous affairs where you travel only through the
desert sands. Rather, the itinerary is fixed in such a way that riders come
in close contact with the local populace residing in nearby areas and get a
chance to interact with them. This is probably a lifetime opportunity for
the riders to acquaint themselves with local customs and traditions and
appreciate the tough life that these people lead.
The caravan also halts for lunch or dinner in desert villages they are
enthralled by the local artistes with traditional dances and music. Another
exciting part of the itinerary is halting at night in the midst of the
desert to sleep for the night. As riders rest and converse among themselves
regarding their experiences, dinner is prepared on sand dunes.
Although the main emphasis of safaris is on the desert, the itinerary also
does justice to the monuments and other places of historical importance that
falls on the safari route. This adds diversity and colour to the safaris.
Horse
Safari
Horse safaris may not be as exciting and extensive as camel safaris, yet
undertaking them is great fun. Horse safaris are generally short as the
animal cannot cover long distances in deserts. Horse safaris are a popular
option for those who want short yet exciting tours. Infact, horse safaris
are guided more by the elements of adventure and thrill.
Jeep Safari
A jeep safari is the fastest and the most comfortable way of exploring the
desert of Rajasthan. The comprehensive jeep safaris can cover many
destinations and offer some of the best views to tourists. An open jeep is
most preferred as it offers a breathtaking view of all sides. The itinerary
in the different kinds of safaris remains more of less the same.
It may be mentioned that desert safaris are conducted by experienced tour
operators and all arrangements in the form of food, tents, sufficient water,
foam mattresses, medicines and other required items are made well in
advance.
