Rajasthan is sold globally as the land of palaces and local culture.
Jaisalmer, in particular is marketed for its sand dunes. Majority of tourists
(both international and domestic) go to Jaisalmer to experience the unique city
located within the fort and take a camel safari on the sand dunes. The more
adventurous, camp on the dunes at night. There is yet another attraction in
Jaisalmer that very few people are aware of. This is the truly spectacular
Desert National Park, about half an hour’s drive from the city. This area
showcases one of the most beautiful and distinctive ecosystems comprising of
rolling sand dunes and grasslands of sewan
grass considered to be one of the finest fodder grasses in the country. The
flora and fauna are both unique as they are adapted to live in extremely harsh
conditions. The park is perhaps the last safe haven for the state bird of
Rajasthan, the celebrated Great Indian Bustard, popularly known as GIB. Once
hunted, this bird is now under strict protection here. There is also a large
population of the spiny-tailed lizard here. Other fauna include the Indian and
Desert fox and the Desert cat. There are also a large number of raptors that
congregate here.
 |
| The Desert Ecosystem |
 |
| A variety of raptors may be seen |
It is ironic that despite Jaisalmer being a very popular tourist
destination few even know of the existence of the park. There is huge potential
to develop the park for ecotourism, if combined with homestays and /or
community lodges in the surrounding villages. An added attraction is the Akal Wood Fossil Park at Akal village. Communities from villages around the
park are ambiguous about the park. This could change if there is a link up
through tourism. Much will need to be done to develop first the park for
tourism and then with local communities to help developing appropriate accommodation
etc. Interpretation and capacity building will be crucial if this is taken
forward.
 |
| Working with local communities to develop ecotourism is crucial |
No comments:
Post a Comment