Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer

Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer is Located about 42 km on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India, Sam Sand Dunes is an absolute must-visit sight here. It is on the border of the Jaisalmer Desert National Park. Jaisalmer or the ‘Golden City’ is by far the most unique city in India to have such a tourist spot in its geographical boundaries, due to the presence of the mighty Thar Desert. 

When to visit Jaisalmer ?
The best time to visit the dunes here is either before sunrise between 4 am and 6 am & before sunset, between 4 pm and 6 pm and its best done on camelback. During these hours, you can experience the warmth of the local people who convert the whole ambience into a carnival. Even the adults here and children of camel owners sport traditional clothes. 
The best time of year to visit the dunes is between October and March. In February, this region hosts the Desert Festival, a three-day even that showcases the culture and heritage of royal Rajasthan. The festival is full of cultural events, including puppet shows, Tug of War, Biggest Moustache, folk performances and a camel race.  

What to expect in Jaisalmer?
Most tourists take a day’s excursion of the Sam Sand Dunes. Accommodation here is in mud cottages or in Swiss tents. Here, you can catch some spectacular sunrises and sunsets, so bring your camera along. At night, bonfires, star-studded skies, Rajasthani delicacies, song and dance fill the air. 

Desert activities to enjoy in the Sam Sand Dunes
Camel Safari

One way of exploring the rare beauty of the Thar Desert is to go on a camel safari. This is the only place in India where there’s desert land and where you can see sand dunes in all its unique beauty. Tourists take these safaris here in full confidence, knowing that they are organized by experienced and trained guides who are also English-speaking. These trips are mainly conducted in the late afternoon or evening. 

Desert Camping
If you go desert camping in Jaisalmer, be prepared to stay in either a Swiss desert tent or a mud cottage. You will get all home comforts and a lot of privacy here. They are laid out in the centre of the desert and in a semi-circular shape. In the evenings, there’re a lot of cultural programmes which can be enjoyed with local fare. 

Jaisalmer Dune Bashing
This is India’s best dune bashing destination. Dunes about five metres high are perfect for dune bashing in an SUV. When you go with a trained driver, you can explore the unique beauty of the dunes here. This is best done in the evenings, about 4 pm. 
    
Conclusion
A visit to Jaisalmer is incomplete without spending time at Sam Sand Dunes. So, the next time you visit Jaisalmer, factor this unique sight into your plans.