From Jaisalmer — a golden sandstone fortress city rising straight out of the Thar — camel safaris lope into scrubby dunes past temple ruins and villages that see few visitors. The classic is one night at the Sam or quieter Khuri dunes: sunset from a crest, dal by firelight, a cot under the stars while the camels grumble in the dark. Choose an operator with small groups and good animal welfare credentials. November to February keeps the heat merciful.
Featured in Ten desert adventures worth the sand in your boots · Adventure