Desert National Park

Desert National Park
IUCN category II (national park)
Nearest city	Jaisalmer
Coordinates	27°2′22″N 70°53′2″E / 27.03944°N 70.88389°E / 27.03944; 70.88389Coordinates: 27°2′22″N 70°53′2″E / 27.03944°N 70.88389°E / 27.03944; 70.88389
Area	3,162 km2 (1,221 sq mi)
Established	1992

Desert National Park, Rajasthan, India, is situated in the west Indian state of Rajasthan near the town of Jaisalmer. This is one of the largest national parks, covering an area of 3162 km². The Desert National Park is an excellent example of the ecosystem of the Thar Desert. Sand dunes form around 20% of the Park. The major landform consists of craggy rocks and compact salt lake bottoms, intermedial areas and fixed dunes.

Despite a fragile ecosystem there is an abundance of birdlife. The region is a haven for migratory and resident birds of the desert. Many eagles, harriers, falcons, buzzards, kestrel and vultures. Short-toed eagles, tawny eagles, spotted eagles, laggar falcons and kestrels are the most common among these. Sand grouse are spotted near small ponds or lakes. The endangered great Indian bustard is a magnificent bird found in relatively fair numbers. It migrates locally in different seasons. The most suitable time to visit the area is between November and January. The Desert National Park has a collection of fossils of animals and plants of 180 million years old. Some fossils of dinosaurs of 6 million years old have been found in the area.

Situated in the Indian state of Rajasthan near Jaisalmer.