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Thar Desert

Thar Desert, Rajasthan

Also known as the Great Indian Desert, the Thar Desert extends into two states of north west India (Rajasthan and Gujarat) and in the eastern region of the neighbouring country, Pakistan. The arid region extends in an area which is 800 km long and 400 km wide. The desert is bordered by Indus and Sutlej river in the west and the Aravalli ranges in the east. The alluvial plains of Haryana and Punjab occupy the northern region. Nearly three fifth of the total Thar area is under farming while more than one fourth has been developed into pasture land. The annual average rainfall is less than 25 cm and there is only one river, Luni, that flows from between the region. This river flows out to merge with the Arabian Sea. Farming in this region, as evident from the amount of rainfall, is not at all easy. Infact four out of ten years suffer a situation of severe drought. And then, there is strong winds that blow for nearly half the year in this region.

As many as 700 species of plants exist in this area of which 107 are grass alone. These plants have the capacity to survive in the driest of conditions and are usually edible, especially the grass variety. The animal species of the desert region is also noteworthy. Actually, The Thar Desert houses some of the best breed of livestock in the country and thereby contributes to production of wool in Rajasthan which is half the total wool production in the country.

The land of shifting sand dunes, broken rocks and scrub vegetation has the visitors in a state of great excitement because it is completely different from what they have been used to. Though the region is arid, there is no dearth of attractions. Three of the most attractive cities of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bikaner are a part of the Great Indian Desert.

Thar Desert Regions

Jaisalmer with a landscape that is mostly sandy or stony, lies in the heart of the Thar desert. The vast sandy stretches, from which emerges the magnificent fort of Jaisalmer, has earned the place the sobriquet of the Golden City. Around 42 km from Jaisalmer is the immensely famous Sam Sand Dunes. A camel safari trip to this place is extremely important to experience the true magic of the Thar desert.

Lying at the edge of the Thar desert are the cities of Jodhpur and Bikaner. These places are just perfect for providing an insight into the life of desert region. Camel safari in both these places are tremendously enjoyable.