Jeep safaris or dune bashing is one of the most adventurous forms of travelling in the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India. This is an exciting activity that entails moving in a 4×4 vehicle over the rolling sand dunes; it is an exciting experience that will leave you with fond memories. The drivers are very professional in handling the steep inclines and curves and give the rider a thrilling roller coaster-like ride while the backdrop is the desert scenery.
Besides the adrenalin rush, dune bashing provides a vantage view of the Thar desert that cannot be observed from a distance. When riding across the golden sand, you will be able to see beautiful scenery especially when the sun is setting or rising since the dunes will be red in colour. This adventure can be accompanied by other activities such as camel riding and cultural tours, thus making dune bashing one of the best and must-do activities that one should never miss while in Rajasthan.
The Thar Desert: India’s Largest Desert
The Thar Desert also referred to as the Great Indian Desert is one of the largest arid zone located in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent. It has an area of more than 200,000 square kilometres and takes 17th place among the largest deserts on Earth. In the desert geographical features that are evident are the rolling sand hills, sandy plains and low and barren hills known as bhakar.
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Sam Sand Dunes: The Place to Be for Dune Bashing
As for dune bashing, the Thar Desert is full of opportunities to do so, but the most famous place for this is the Sam Sand Dunes near Jaisalmer. Situated at a distance of about 45 Km from Jaisalmer, the Sam Sand Dunes have interesting patterns made by the wind which keeps on changing the layers of sand.
The Dune Bashing Experience
Dune bashing in the Thar Desert is like a ride on a roller coaster in which one is taken up and down the steep sand dunes at high speed. The professional driver of your 4×4 vehicle will take you through gullies in the desert, over the dunes, sharp turns, jumps, and slalom that will make you hold your breath. Sometimes you may be given the impression that you are in a roller coaster especially when the vehicle moves up and down the dunes with steep slopes of up to 45 degrees.
Best Time to Visit
It is recommended that one should go for dune bashing in the Thar Desert between November and January as it is winter season in India. These months are perfect for dune-bashing activities since the climate is favourable for outdoor activities. Winters are cool and dry but summers are very hot and uncomfortable with gusty winds which make you uncomfortable.
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What to Expect on a Dune-Bashing Safari
Most of the dune-bashing safaris in Jaisalmer begin with a road trip from the city to the Sam Sand Dunes. When you get to the dunes you will be met by a convoy of 4 wheel drives and professional drivers for the bumpy ride. The safari normally takes about an hour and in it, you get to experience speed, skills of the driver and the force of gravity.
Combining Dune Bashing with Other Activities
Dune bashing can be combined with other exciting activities in the Thar Desert, such as:
- Parasailing
- Quad biking
- Camel rides
- Camping under the stars
This guide completely focuses on the history and culture of the desert. A half-day tour is the Queen of Thar desert safari which comprises of dune bashing and exploring historical and cultural sites in and around Jaisalmer which include the ruins of Lodrawa – the ancient capital of the Bhatti dynasty, the Bada Bagh cenotaphs, Amar Sagar Jain Temple and Khaba Fort and Kuldhara. These extra activities enable the visitors to learn and appreciate the Thar desert culture besides other activities such as dune bashing.
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What to Bring for Dune Bashing
When going dune bashing it is advisable to carry only what is very necessary in the car. Make sure to carry a pair of sunglasses to avoid the sun’s rays on your eyes and a bottle of sunscreen to avoid sunburns on your skin. Do not leave your camera behind as there are beautiful views of the desert that you will see. If you wish to go for a night safari to look at the stars, make sure to carry warm clothing because it gets cold in the deserts, especially at night.
Dune Bashing on Camel Back
While dune bashing in 4-wheel drive cars is the most common way of exploring the desert, some tourists prefer to do it on camels. Camel dune bashing is a more conventional and realistic way of touring the Thar Desert as compared to other modes of transport which provide a closer feeling with nature and the stunning view. The whirling winds and sand storms are also a bonus to the fun and can’t resist camel dune bashing.
Responsible Tourism in the Thar Desert
Like any other activity that is done outside the comfort of our homes, it is crucial to engage in responsible tourism while dune bashing in the Thar Desert. These include; being careful with the environment, avoiding littering, and obeying the guide. The Thar Desert is blessed with a rich and varied number of species of plants and animals and it is our duty to preserve this world for the generations to come.
Ready for a Dune Bash in the Deserts!
Off-road driving through the sand dunes of the Thar desert is one of the most adventurous and exciting activities that should not be missed by travellers visiting Rajasthan. If you decide to travel in a car or on a camelback, you will not be able to catch your breath from the excitement and the beautiful sight of the desert. So get your luggage, your sunglasses and your cameras, and let the journey of a lifetime begin with Tusk Travel in the Thar Desert!
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