Pushkar Sand Dunes

The Thar does not begin somewhere far to the west; its easternmost dunes come right up to Pushkar's edge, a short walk or camel ride past the fairground. Low golden ridges with the Aravallis behind them, at their best in the hour before the sun drops. The standard outing is a 1.5-2-hour sunset camel or camel-cart safari, jeeps also run, and there are overnight desert camps for anyone who wants the longer version; the route passes villages and shepherd camps. October to March is the comfortable window. Carry water, and settle the price before you get on.

A desert sunset within walking distance of town, no long haul west required