Jaisalmer - Desert National Park

Desert National Park

State : Rajasthan Area :  3,162 sq. km Altitude:  210 - 300 m Vegetation : Thorn forest

The Desert National Park is a protected sanctuary. The park is considered not only the largest in the state of Rajasthan but among the largest in India. The catchments area of the Desert National Park is around 3100 sq. km. One of the largest national parks in India, extending over an area of 3,100 sq. km., the Desert National Park is a unique and fragile ecosystem,  mainly comprising of sand dunes, salt water reservoirs, craggy rocks, and a scarce of vegetation.

The desert is a harsh place to sustain life and thus most of the fauna and flora live on the edge.

The critically endangered great Indian bustard is probably the  most important bird in India. It is found in relatively fair numbers here.  

Despite a fragile ecosystem, there is an abundance of birdlife. The region is a haven for migratory and resident birds of the desert. Many eagles, harriers, falcons, buzzards, kestrel and vultures are spotted here. Short-toed eagles, tawny eagles, spotted eagles, laggar falcons and kestrels are the most common among these. Sand grouse are spotted near small ponds or lakes.

Best Season : November - March

Indian bustard: The endangered Indian bustard is the major attraction of Desert National Park. Brown and white in colour, the bustard is a metre tall and has long bare legs and a long neck. 

Wildlife: Birds – Great Indian Bustard, Falcons, Eagles, Vultures, Bee-Eaters, Shrikes, Larks, Demoiselle Crane, Macqueen's Bustard, Sandgrouse, Long-Legged, Honey Buzzards, chats, babblers, kites etc. Mammals – Camel, Desert Fox, Bengal Fox, Chinkara, Wolf, Desert Cat, Blackbuck, Hedgehog, Nilgai etc.