The Desert National Park located in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan is a vast protected land that strives to protect the various elements of the Thar Desert�s fragile eco system. It was established in 1980 and spreads over 1220 square miles. A large proportion of the National Park is desert land and includes sand dunes, rocks, and dried salt lake beds. It is the largest of the wildlife destinations in Rajasthan and supports a small number of creatures with its arid landscape and sparse vegetation. The fascinating landscape and wildlife of the Desert National Park makes it one of the tourist attractions of Rajasthan. A large number of nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts arrive here to experience wild Rajasthan at its best, making it one of the major tourist attractions in Rajasthan.

The arid and harsh climate of this region does not support an abundance of vegetation. Small grasses, shrubs and thorny vegetation form the flora of the Desert National Park. This sparse vegetation is not conducive to a large variety of fauna found elsewhere in India. The wildlife in Desert National Park includes some reptiles like the spiny tailed lizard, monitors, and mammals like the chinkara, black buck, desert fox and desert cat. The camels have remarkably adapted to this harsh topography and form an integral part of the life of the local people. The region abounds in snakes of many varieties, including the viper and krait.

A large number of birds can be spotted in the Desert National Park. These include spotted eagles, falcons, vultures, gray partridges, sand grouse, bee-eaters, buzzards, babblers, quails, orioles, and larks. The Great Indian Bustard is one of the most endangered avian species of India. They can be spotted at various places in the park, the best of which is Sudhasree, an observation point located within the park.

A very interesting spot is the Akal Wood Fossil Park which is located near the park. Fossil remains dating back to 180 million years have been found here. These include sea shells and enormous fossilized tree trunks.

Jeep rides or coaches take tourists on tour s of this magnificent protected area, accompanied by wildlife experts acting as guides.

A wide range of accommodation is available in the town of Jaisalmer. It is a famous tourist spot and finding accommodation would not be a problem at all. The accommodation in Jaisalmer includes lodges, guest houses, hotels, and luxury heritage houses. You can also find rooms let by the villagers.

To know more about the Desert National Park and other aspects of tourism in Rajasthan, log on to touristplacesinindia.com which offers online information about the major tourist places in India.