The Thar desert has much to offer in terms of flaura and fauna and animals. This covers areas in both the Indian state of Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Deserts in India
The Thar Desert – This is also known as the Great Indian desert and is situated in the northwestern part of Indian subcontinent. Having an area of 200,000 sq.km it is 18th largest desert in the world and the 3rd largest desert in Asia. The desert is mostly situated in the state of Rajasthan and is also situated in the southern part of Haryana and Punjab and also northern Gujarat.

The main occupation of the residents of Thar desert has been agriculture and animal husbandry. The region experiences frequent droughts. Land degradation takes place due to over grazing, mining, water erosion as well erosion due to strong winds. The living standards of the people living in this desert is very low.

Rainfall
Rainfall in the region is very erratic. The maximum rainfall received is around 100-500 mm. The monsoon hits the desert area in the months form July to September.

The arid lands has its own attractions. The golden sands, occasional vegetation and camel ride backs give one much pleasure while visiting the place. It is beautiful to see the sun setting on the desert.

Vegetation of the desert
The vegetation in the desert consists of stunted scrubs and a few sporadic trees. Gum Arabic acacia as well as euphorbia found on the hills and Khajri, also known as Prosopis cineraria are available in the desert. Animals such as black buck as well as Chinkara ( gazelle) are found. Birds such as quail, francolin and great bustard inhabit the region. Migratory birds such as geese, ducks and sand grouse can also be seen in the region.

People
People residing here are simple and of low education. They are quite poor and have few wants. Their life is full of hardships as basic needs are also not available. The folk songs sung in this region are very popular all over India.

Tourists make it a point to visit the desert. They enjoy the ambience and find the desert a mighty manifestation of nature.