Sam Sand Dunes

For most travellers, the Thar Desert means Sam — a sea of rolling golden dunes about 40 km from Jaisalmer, and the setting for the quintessential Rajasthan desert experience. As the afternoon cools, camel and jeep safaris head out across the sand toward the sunset.

Come evening, the desert camps light up with folk music, Kalbeliya dancers, bonfires and traditional dinners under a sky thick with stars. Spending a night here — in anything from a basic tent to a luxury 'glamping' camp — is a highlight of any Rajasthan trip.

• ›A camel safari over the dunes at sunset.
• ›An overnight desert camp with folk music and dance.
• ›The star-filled night sky, far from city lights.

Choose a reputable, responsible camp and safari operator. It gets busy at peak season, so book ahead; Khuri dunes are a quieter alternative. Winter nights are cold — pack layers.