Top Deserts in india

1. Leh Ladakh

"India's Own Moonland" Leh Ladakh Tourism A land like no other with superabundance of attractions to visit and phantasmagoric and fabulous landscapes, amazing people and culture, Ladakh is truly a heaven on Earth. Bounded by two of the world's mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram, it lies athwart two other, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar range. Ladakh is mystical in all the spheres it covers, from nature, geography, sceneries to the modest cultures that it fosters. Right from gompas to the sensational momos, the superabundance of attractions to visit makes this city make it heaven on earth. It is said that only in Ladakh can a man sitting in the sun with his feet in the shade suffer from sunstroke and frostbite at the same time. For those of us living in the constant confusion about the difference between these twin locations, Leh-Ladakh, here is something that might help you. The state of Jammu and Kashmir is divided into three parts: Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. Ladakh, further is divided into two districts: district Leh, and district Kargil. The former district has a popular town ?Leh?and is a great tourist attraction because of its beautiful monasteries, picturesque locations, and interesting markets defining the culture of the place. Download Leh Ladakh PDF Guide >

2. Kutch

"The White Desert of India" Kutch Tourism Virtually an island that resembles the shape of a tortoise, Kutch is an erstwhile princely state of India holding onto its grandeur nature from the past. Kutch is probably one of the most beautiful, yet surreal places in India. With the vast expanses of white salt desert in the Rann of Kutch area, this is an amazing experience to witness. One would be able to see just stretches of pure white land as far as the eyesight goes. The place comes to life during the winters when the Rann Festival is held during December-February everywhere in which there are huge camp settlements with cultural programs, functions and adventure activities like hot-air ballooning. Kutch is also among the largest district of India with a terribly low population density. Also, Kutch lies on the India-Pakistan border and you can see parts of Pakistan from Kutch. Kutch is also famous for crafts and embroidery works, Flamingo Sanctuary and Wild Ass Sanctuary. Bhuj is an ideal starting point to visit the Rann of Kutch. Beautiful beaches of Mandvi near Bhuj are also totally worth visiting during your trip to Kutch. Don't miss to see the ancient town ofDholavira. Download Kutch PDF Guide >

3. Junagadh

Junagadh Tourism Being the capital of Junagadh Princely State once, the town shines with historical significance with many historical monuments to see. Junagad is also very close to theGirnar Hillsand the world renowned Gir National Park. Catch a glimpse of the wild in the Sakkabaug Zoo and the Wildlife Museum. Also visit the Girnar Hills and get a feel of the serene yet religious atmosphere. The fort at Uperkot is another tourist magnet. Download Junagadh PDF Guide >

4. Bhuj

"Ancient temples, tall hills and a deep sense of serenity" Bhuj Tourism A desert city with long history of kings and empires make Bhuj one of the most interesting and unique historical places to see. The city has a long history of kings and empires - and hence many historic places to see. The city was left in a state of devastation after the 2001 earthquake and is still in the recovery phase. Bhuj connects you to a range of civilizations and important events in South Asian history through prehistoric archaeological finds, remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization (Harappan), places associated with the Mahabharata and Alexander the Great's march into India and tombs, palaces and other buildings from the rule of the Naga chiefs, the Jadeja Rajputs, theGujaratSultans and the British Raj. . The vibrant and dynamic history of the area gives the area a blend of ethnic cultures. In a walk around Bhuj, you can see the Hall of Mirrors at the Aina Mahal; climb the bell tower of thePrag Mahalnext door; stroll through the produce market; have a famousKutchi pau bhaji for lunch; examine the 2000-year-old Kshatrapa inscriptions in the Kutch Museum; admire the sculptures of Ramayana characters at the Ramakund stepwell; walk aroundHamirsar Lakeand watch children jumping into it from the lake walls as the hot afternoon sun subsides; and catch the sunset among the chhatardis of the Kutchi royal family in a peaceful field outside the center of town. Download Bhuj PDF Guide >

5. Spiti Valley

"Trekking mecca and a virgin paradise" Spiti Valley Tourism Long winding roads and picturesque valleys presenting glimpses of cold deserts and snow-crowned mountains, with intermittent greenery and picture-perfect villages welcome you when you set foot into Spiti Valley. Bordered on all sides by the Himalayas, Spiti Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh, has an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level, and gets around 250 days of sunshine in the year, making it one of the coldest places in the country. With the thick Himalayan snow cutting Spiti off from the rest of the country for around 6 months a year, the summer months are the only time Spiti is directly accessible via motorway. The term Spiti means 'The Middle Land', and the place is very appropriately named, as Spiti Valley separates India from Tibet. Scantily populated, Spiti is an adventure lover?s paradise, with the famed Spiti trek attracting thousands of adventure enthusiasts every year. There are many trekking trails in Spiti that tourists can choose from. All of these treks start from Kaza (Spiti?s capital, where you make your base camp), to various peaks from where you can get panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains. An easy 1.5-kilometre trek along the Spiti River from Dhankar Monastery to Dhankar Lake promises gorgeous views of the villages below, and the Dhankar Lake itself is a place where you can sit back and relax amidst the cool mountain air. The mountain ropeway from Kibber to Chichum is a popular tourist attraction. Built entirely by the locals to avoid walking the long uphill path between the two villages, this ropeway is operated manually, and offers spectacular views of the gorge below, as well a bird?s eye view of the surrounding peaks. Download Spiti Valley PDF Guide >

6. Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley Tourism This masterpiece of God's own creation lies on the Silk route, in the paradisiacal ofJammuand Kashmir at a distance of around 140 Km from Leh. The valley is embellished with Shyok and Nubra river snaking through it and some beautiful monasteries colored with rich shades of golden, red and others. Do you believe that places can leave you awestruck? This place is so magnificent that whatever your sight beholds gets you captivated as if every inch of the land has been gracefully etched by some mystical power. And when we talk about such places, we put Nubra valley somewhere at the top of the list because it's a gem that is beyond the reach of chaos and has been bestowed with stark tranquillity. In order to enter the Nubra valley, you need to hand over the photocopies of your travel permits to the soldiers in the Khardung la pass, as the region is currently under military supervision because the road further leads to the Siachen base camp which happens to be the highest battlefield in the world. As you proceed with your somewhat bumpy journey, you will come across not just beautiful scenic views but also the highest desert of the world in Hunder, famous for the bactarian camel rides. Bactarian camels are of the rarest sort, having two humps and were the major source of transportation in the silk route. In Diksit, you can buy some lovely Kashmiri or Tibetan artefacts, Pashmina shawls, woollen socks, almonds, apricots, apples and other things that define Kashmir. Of course, you can take home the beauty Kashmir is known for, in your memories that you will be cherishing for life. Download Nubra Valley PDF Guide >

7. Jaisalmer

"The Golden City" Jaisalmer Tourism Situated close to the Pakistan Border, Jaisalmer is a major tourist spot located in the northwestern state of Rajasthan in India. It is called the 'golden city' due to its bounteous golden dunes flowing in the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is adorned with lakes, ornate Jain temples, havelis and castles clad in golden yellowish sandstone. Climb on to the camel saddle and make your way through this desert or camp under the night sky in this golden land for an unforgettable experience. The Jaisalmer Fort stands as a crown atop the city and provides a beautiful contrast to the landscape. It also has a lake and many magnificent temples, all made of sandstone. The narrow alleys surrounding the fort are inhabited by people residing there for generations. Jaisalmer is a sublime amalgam of exotic Indian desert culture, heritage and adventure. Download Jaisalmer PDF Guide >

8. Jodhpur

"The Blue City" Jodhpur Tourism Also Known as the "Gateway to Thar", it is famous for itsMehrangarh fort, blue houses, temples, sweets and snacks. Apart from the fort, there are multiple temples, lakes, shopping streets that are like a mirage from a bygone era. Jodhpur is one of the most enchanting cities ofRajasthan, with its mighty Mehrangarh fort overlooking the city. An architectural masterpiece in itself, Mehrangarh Fort is a magnificent fort and is among one of the largest forts in Rajasthan. The city is called the Blue City as it looks completely blue in colour from an aerial view because of its blue walls and blue houses. Also seen in the backdrop of the movie, The Dark Knight Rises, Jodhpur attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world. NearbyJaswant Tadaand Umaid Bhawan Palace are also among the top attractions in Jodhpur. Apart from the old blue city, Jodhpur has grown as a city with wider and cleaner roads in some parts. However, the magic lies in the old city itself with hundreds of shops, guesthouses, eating joints and vendors make it a chirpy bustling city, especially near the landmark clock tower and Sardar Market. Download Jodhpur PDF Guide >

9. Ajmer

Surrounded by Aravali ranges, the city of Ajmer is most famous for itsDargah Sharifof saint Muin-ud-din Chishti. Firmly bound by its traditions and culture, AjmerÂ has a unique charm which lies in the ethos and craftsmanship practised over centuries. Visit Ajmer to witness the exquisite Mughal architecture set in an aura of peace and spirituality.

10. Bikaner

"The desert town of 'Camel Festival'" Bikaner Tourism Located in the midst of Thar Desert, Bikaner is a "cultural paradise and a traveller's haven". The city will mesmerize you with the camels sauntering its beautiful sand dunes and captivate you with its ancient palaces and forts. Rightly called as one of the three great desert kingdoms of Rajasthan, the dazzling city boasts of old-world charm, opulent havelis and depicts a pleasing bygone era of the Rajputs. Best known as the "camel country" for breeding some best-knownn riding camels, Bikaner also happens to house one of the only two models of the biplane used by the British in World War 1. Bikaner with its magnificence in architecture, art and culture has sands filled with colour, festivity and cultural marvels. Sand Dunes and the Desert Safari are among major attractions. Bikaner is also famous for hosting the internationalCamel festivalwhich draws tourists from world over. Other attractions here include experiencing delicacies such as Thandai, Bhujias, shopping for the fascinating Ivory and Lacquer items or simply witnessing the immense heritage taking the form of wall paintings and arts and crafts in the area. Download Bikaner PDF Guide >

11. Pushkar

"Lord Brahma's only temples, and the mesmerising cattle fair" Pushkar Tourism Pushkar, the city often referred to as the ?rose garden of Rajasthan? is a city of culture and intellect. Nothing can describe this iconic city better than a sought-after destination that provides the essence of Pushkar roses, the charm of culturally vibrant atmosphere and the dynamic festivities make it one hot cultural spot. The west wind of Pushkar gives an easygoing vibe of Westwood lifestyle in the hot sandstone town. The home of the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world, it is one of the ultimate pilgrimages for Hindus to attain divine spiritual bliss. A place of holy spirit for Hindus, ample ghats are flooded with devotees, closing eyes in the serenity of chants coming from temples around. A soothing and calm place with the glitter of spirituality makes Pushkar a must visit. Pushkar is one of the oldest cities of India and is one of the five sacred dhams for devout Hindus. It has one of the very few existing devoted temples to Lord Brahma. Pushkar is also famous for its annual Pushkar Camel Fair, held in the month of November. This is one of very few places in Rajasthan you would find which isn't famous because of a fort. This holy city attracts tourists from far and wide for its many temples. Even though Pushkar is a deeply religious destination, it has become a hipster's paradise in the last few years. A number of cafes with a relaxed and chilled out vibe serve delicious, authentic vegetarian Indian food, and you can sit and observe the life in small-town rural India, and appreciate Hindu religious traditions. However, one has to be a little sensitive towards the its religious and spiritual significance, respect local norms and keep from consuming meat products or liquor in and a little around Pushkar. Download Pushkar PDF Guide >

12. Chittorgarh

"City of Pride and Honor" Chittorgarh Tourism A depository of ancient monuments, an extremely rich heritage, and an immortal folklore boasting of its majestic glory, every building in Chittorgarh still reverberates with the history of its sacrifice and heroism. The capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, Chittorgarh is a land of forts, citadels, ruins, and evergreen stories. Situated in the South Eastern corner of Rajasthan, Chittorgarh stands at the helm of Chattari Rajput pride, and is remembered in the pages of history for its glorious battles, especially the siege of Alauddin Khilji. Once known for its grandeur and opulence, today, Chittorgarh has left its tales of bravery and betrayal far behind to catch up to commercialization, but those stories of splendour and magnificence will never be forgotten. Chittorgarh is known far and wide for its most famous attraction, the Chittorgarh fort, which is a gigantic fort built on a hilltop, spreading over an area of around 700 acres. Chittorgarh fort will always be remembered for the courageous self-sacrificing Jauhar performed by Rani Padmini to thwart the conquest of the fort by Alauddin Khilji, and thousands of tourists visit this place every year to take a look at the place that has been so prominently marked in the pages of history. Rana Kumbha Palace is the largest structure in Chittorgarh fort, and while it is now a mere tumbledown structure of broken walls and piles of stones, it was once a magnificent three-storied palace with gigantic pillars, maze-like underground tunnels and intricately designed architecture. The most famous attraction in Chittorgarh fort is the Rani Padmini Palace, named after Queen Padmini herself. Replete with roof pavilions and water moats, the story of Queen Padmini?s valour rings out loud in every corner of this dilapidated building. Other sights to visit in Chittorgarh include the Meera Temple, the Kali Mata temple, the G

13. Kumbhalgarh

"A little marvel by the foot of Aravali" Kumbhalgarh Tourism Famous for its gigantic snake-like fortress, Kumbalgarh town is yet another feather in Rajasthan?s royal cap. The historic town is renowned for its majestic monuments, extravagant palaces, an array of temples and flamboyant chattris. The Kumbhalgarh fort is the second most important fort of Rajasthan and is a truly magnificent sight. The charming location of the fort at the foothills of pebbly Aravalli hills increases the overall appeal of the place. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuaries has a Lion Safari to offer too. At the foot of the Aravali, the area is blessed with an interesting terrain and other natural elements. Other than sustaining a rich flora and fauna, the area also sustains a magnificent past made to come alive with monuments flattering the tourists around the city. The wall of Kumbhalgarh Fort is the second longest continuous wall in the world, after the Great Wall of China. Download Kumbhalgarh PDF Guide >

14. Shekhawati

"The Open Gallery Of Rajasthan" Shekhawati Tourism Shekhawati is a semi-arid getaway full of open air galleries, enchanting havelis & palaces and legendary forts. This region has been recognised as the open art gallery of Rajasthan"" having the largest concentration of frescos in the world." Shekhawati has a history similar to that ofNawalgarhwhere in the Marwari men went to cities like Bombay and Calcutta in search of work and the time they found success and their businesses flourished, that is exactly when these plush havelis emanated. One businessman competed with the other in showing off his wealth, this continued on and on and finally, what the business families of Shekhawati got was an affluent city to live in. The inhabitants of Shekhawati are considered brave, sacrificing and hard working people. The region provides one of the highest number of people to the Indian Army. Hence, this location makes up for a dreamscape for all those wishing to get a blast from the past. Download Shekhawati PDF Guide >

15. Bundi

"The Queen of Hadoti" Bundi Tourism A princely state for a princely stay, in the northwest of India, lies the district of Bundi, in the Hadoti region of the royal state ofRajasthan. In ancient times, the area around Bundi was apparently inhabited by various local tribes. Bundi was previously called 'Bunda-Ka-Nal"; Nal meaning 'narrow ways'. It is said to derive its name from a former Meena tribe man called Bunda Meena. Later the region was governed by Rao Deva Hada who took over Bundi from Jaita Meena in 1342 and established a princely state Bundi renaming the surrounding area called Hadoti the land of great Hada Rajputs. Bundi is home to some of the most magnificent palaces, majestic forts, its baolis (meaning water wells or step wells), haves, temples and chhatris with carved pillars. It is of great historical significance as it has been a witness to many battles and legendary tales of valor. Bundi is blessed with a plethora of nature along with a beautiful pattern of rivers and lakes and some enchanted waterfalls. The lushy lands of this area are host to a huge variety of flora and fauna. The picturesque sceneries of Bundi have inspired a lot of writers and artists. Situated at a distance of 210 km from Jaipur and 35 km fromKotasurrounded by the Aravalli Range on three sides, this city lies near a narrow gorge. A substantial wall with four gateways encircles the city. Download Bundi PDF Guide >

16. Ranakpur

"A Spiritual Oasis in Aravali" Ranakpur Tourism Ranakpur is a small quaint town nestled amid the secluded valley of Aravali Ranges in Rajasthan. Situated around 96 km North of Udaipur in Pali district, it is an important destination for Jain pilgrims. The place presents a unique spectacle of verdant greenery and gushing streams, an unusual sight in Rajasthan. Immersed in the vibrant culture with a myriad of enrapturing beauty in store, Ranakpur has made its way on the list of must-visit destinations in Rajasthan.It is named after Rana Kumbha, who donated some land for the place. There are many temples dedicated to different Tirthankaras in Jainism like Adinatha, Parasnath and Chaumukha Temple with marvellous architectures. Rightly nicknamed as 'A spiritual oasis in Aravalli', Ranakpur is a place with mesmerising beauty that will leave you awe-inspired with a rejuvenated soul. Download Ranakpur PDF Guide >

17. Fatehpur

"Fatehpur, Rajasthan, Ancient City, Rich History, Shekhawati Region." Fatehpur Tourism Situated in the Sikar district of Rajasthan, Fatehpur is an ancient town, a prominent part of theShekhawatiregion. Fatehpur is popular with tourists who want to try out a new destination, and have a knack for art and culture. Easily reachable on the Delhi- Jaipur highway, Fatehpur has a number of palaces and forts adorning the beautiful craft of fresco. For a break in the monotonous routine, Rajasthani hospitality, love of art and culture, head to Fatehpur. Download Fatehpur PDF Guide >

18. Khimsar

Khimsar Tourism Famous for the Nagaur Festival, Khimsar is a small village in the state of Rajasthan, Ideal for a relaxed weekend getaway in the winters. During the Nagaur Festival, people from far and near come and trade cattle in bulk. Various activities like tug-of-war, camel racing, etc. are also organized. The red chili markets set up during this time are also famous all over Asia. Tourists mainly flock to this town during the Nagaur festival. Also, theKhimsar Fortand the Sand Dune villages are prominent tourist attractions here. Download Khimsar PDF Guide >

19. Nawalgarh

"The Golden City Of Rajasthan" Nawalgarh Tourism Fondly known as "the land of Havelis" or "open air art gallery", this miniature town of Nawalgarh is located around 30 kms away from the town ofJhunjhunuand does absolute justice to the name given to it. It is said that the Marwaris who were off to cosmo cities like Bombay and Calcutta in search of work, used to send their hard earned money back to their homes in Nawalgarh. When their businesses started to flourish, they sent back artists to Nawalgarh in order to build plush palaces and show off their wealth. This lead to the rich architecture of this little town in Rajasthan. Download Nawalgarh PDF Guide >

20. Jhunjhunu

"Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, Ancient City, Rich History, Shekhawati Region." Jhunjhunu Tourism An ancient town in the state of Rajasthan, Jhunjhunu is one of the most progressive districts of the desert state. The vacant havelis, carefully engraved architecture which the monuments proudly put to a tourists' display, everything has stories to interest tourists, specially history enthusiasts. Having the Aravali range to guard it on the south east, the lush green valley also interests the tourists for its natural beauty. Every house has a story to tell, be it about their brave sons who have for years served the nation from the front or be it the temples and holy places in the town. Download Jhunjhunu PDF Guide >

21. Mandawa

Mandawa Tourism Known for its very popular Mandawa Fort, Mandawa is a quaint little town in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan. Popularly known as the Open Art Gallery, the town is replete with paved archways and magnificent havelis and fortresses. It is located in the heart of the Shekhawati region and is dotted with palaces and splendid mansions (havelis). The aura and vibe of the place reflect the social and cultural environment of the place in the bygone era. Owing to its royal rendition, it is also a hot spot for movie shoots and is filled in by media on and off the year.An easy road trip from Delhi, a beautiful city suitably located in the heart of Shekhawati region, often called as an open art gallery, Mandawa is a good getaway for people fond of art and culture. Just as the whole ofShekhawatiregion is worth visiting, Mandawa is another ancient and one of the oldest most cities in the region, definitely worth a holiday. An important stoppage for traders and merchants who exchanged good via the silk route back in those days, this city has a number of palaces and havelis and forts. Having grown in a culturally rich atmosphere, the locals have the sense of appreciating art and are involved in art work like painting, craft handicraft etc. Mandawa can be easily reached by road and is a good option to sit back and relax while the eyes see and the brains appreciate art. Download Mandawa PDF Guide >

22. Osian

"Be a foreigner or be an Asian, the place to be in is Osian." Osian Tourism Osian (Osiyan), also known as the 'Khajuraho of Rajasthan', has earned this name due to its many temples, some of which are very erotic. It is an ancient temple city located 65 kms north of Jodhpur in the state of Rajasthan in western India. This place is of utmost significance to the Jains and the Hindus as some of their most important shrines lie in this beautiful city. Amongst the many temples that this town is host to, the ones that stand out in their beauty and grandeur are the Surya or Sun Temple, the Sachiya Mata Temple and the main Jain temple dedicated to Lord Mahavira. Endowed with golden sand dunes all around, one can get a majestic aerial view of this place from the Sachiya Mata Temple. Download Osian PDF Guide >

23. Sikar

Sikar Tourism One of the most important districts in the Shekhawati, Sikar is safely located in the shade of huge walls with seven entrance gates to the town. Sikar is a good getaway for lazing around, drinking in a new culture, doing photo walks and talking to the locals while gawking at marvellous monuments. The forts, palaces and havelis with the exotic craft of fresco and intricate architecture do not fail to amaze you. Living amidst such great work of art, the locals understand art and are passionate about it. Sikar, combined with other tourist attractions in the Shekhawati region could be a great trip to royal palaces with many unheard stories, forts and the many wars they have been a witness to, frescoes and the beauty of art and culture and the royal yet humble hospitality of the royal state. Download Sikar PDF Guide >

24. Churu

"Gateway to Thar Desert" Churu Tourism At the edge of the Thar desert and situated amidst the shifting golden sand dunes, lies a small city called Churu, resplendent with havelis, fresco paintings and unique architecture. Known as the 'Gateway to the Thar desert', Churu lies in the historic Shekhawati region in northern Rajasthan. Churu is a popular attraction for tourists due to its architecture - the grand palaces of havelis of Kanhaiya Lal Bagla and Surana, and its 400-year-old fort, among other things. The city is a perfect weekend getaway spot from New Delhi. Download Churu PDF Guide >

25. Deeg

Deeg Tourism Located in close vicinity to the city of Bharatpur, Deeg is a small town in the state of Rajasthan. Founded by Maharaja Suraj Mahal in the 18th century, Deeg served as the summer resort to the Royal family. Popular for its magnificent palaces, exquisite fortifications and desi bazaars, the town is an escape from the regular din of city life. You can soak in the rural landscape and laze in the culture. Not far from here is also located the famous Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary which is a must visit. Most of the travellers go on a vacation in the search of a break from their regular lives, some seek a change of culture and not just relief, Deeg could be one such place. Away from the huge crowd, it is a small and peaceful village with unbeatable landscape and opportunities to see the wonderful play of nature. Some kilometres away is Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, where you can find rare species of birds. Back in Deeg, you can spend a day lazing in the rural backdrop, living the desi way and enjoying the change in lifestyle. Download Deeg PDF Guide >

26. Jhalawar

Jhalawar Tourism A place laden with historic forts and beautiful palaces, Jhalawar takes on back in time to an era of glory. It's a place that provides on an opportunity to experience the Rajputana lifestyle. Founded in the early years of the 19th century, Jhalawar was the capital of the Kingdom of Jhalawar and soon became a major city in the Rajputana region. The city with giant forts, its architecturally imperious designs and its beautiful people has a charm unlike any other. The place is a treasure trove of history and instantly takes you back to a time of Maharaja's and Raja's of the Rajputana dynasty who use to rule over the land with proud and honor unlike any other. The city today, is a shadow of its past glory but one can still lose themselves in its historic by-lanes, its forts and palaces. It allows one to have a leisurely outing while reminiscing about history. Jhalawar is the place to be for those who seek a bit of adventure, romance and history. Download Jhalawar PDF Guide >