10 Best Desert destinations in India

India has rich geography with many seasons and reasons to explore. India has vast landscapes with mountains, valleys, deserts, and beaches. As a traveler, one can never run out of options to find the right kind of place for vacation and exploration.

Desert-like landscapes and weather are ideal for people who want to escape the chilly weather of the winters and find some warm weather. We have compiled the 10 best desert destinations that are great for tourists to enjoy.

1. Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is a great winter and monsoon destination in the state of Rajasthan. The city of Jaisalmer is situated in the great Thar Desert and it is popularly known as the ‘Golden City of India’. Popular for its cultural events, and desert safaris, Jaisalmer is one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan.

2. Pushkar

Pushkar is one of the most popular destinations in Rajasthan for international tourists. The famous ‘Pushkar Fair’ attracts hundreds of tourists from all over India and abroad every year. Pushkar is one of the best desert destinations to visit.

3. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti is a cold desert valley with a rugged landscape that attracts tourists for its raw beauty. Trekking enthusiasts, photographers, and spiritual seekers visit Spiti for its vast panoramic views. Several Buddhist monasteries are worth visiting with the background of their rugged landscape.

4. Bikaner

Another destination in the deserts of Rajasthan in Bikaner. This city has a unique mix of sand dunes and grasslands with beautiful lakes. Every year, there are many cultural events with amazing dance, music, and food to experience. 

5. Jodhpur

Jodhpur is popularly known as the Blue City. It is situated in the famous Thar desert and is known for its many forts and several historical buildings. People visiting Jodhpur can get an experience of traditional Rajasthani culture and heritage.

6. The Great Rann of Kutch

Rann of Kutch is one of the most amazing deserts in India. It is a white desert because of the layer of salt. Located in the state of Gujarat, it is one of the largest salt deserts in the world. It is a must-visit for every tourist coming to the state of Gujarat.

7. Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh is a bustling city in the state of Rajasthan and is known for its many forts and historical buildings. There are several monuments that are considered UNESCO World Heritage sites. For photographers and history buffs, Chittorgarh is a must-visit. 

8. Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is a cold desert situated close to the town of Leh and is sort of a hidden gem. This valley offers some of the most challenging treks in India. Located at around 10,000 feet of elevation, trekking here is an experience meant only for the strong-willed. 

Being secluded from the hustle-bustle of cities, the nearest town to Nubra Valley is Leh, which is roughly 150 km away. You can take a flight or train to Leh town, and from there you can take a cab or bus to reach the Valley.

9. Khimsar

Khimsar is located in Rajasthan and is a small village situated in the great Thar desert. In recent years, Khimsar has gained quite a popularity and has become of the best-known tourist destinations in Rajasthan. Desert Safaris and the famous ‘Nagaur Festival’ are the major attractions of Khimsar.

10. The Deccan Plateau

Extending over several Indian states the Deccan is located in the southern region of India. The Deccan plateau extends over the states of Telangana, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. There are several temples and forts worth visiting in the Deccan Plateau.