Thar Desert

The Thar Desert, also called the Great Indian Desert, covers a large portion of the Indian state of Rajasthan and extends westward into southeastern Pakistan. It spans approximately 200,000 square kilometers across both countries. Major Indian cities within or near the desert include Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Bikaner.

Summer temperatures in the Thar can exceed 50°C (122°F), while winter nights can drop near freezing. Annual rainfall ranges roughly from 100 to 500 millimeters, with most precipitation arriving during the monsoon season from July to September. This extreme variability in temperature and rainfall defines the region's semi-arid climate.

The Thar supports species adapted to arid conditions, including the Great Indian Bustard, blackbuck, chinkara (Indian gazelle), and desert fox. Desert National Park in Rajasthan is a key protected area for these and other species. Reptiles such as spiny-tailed lizards and several snake species are also common.

The Thar is one of the most densely populated deserts in the world, with inhabitants practicing agriculture, livestock herding, and crafts. The Indira Gandhi Canal, which began construction in the 1950s, channels water from the Himalayan rivers to irrigate parts of western Rajasthan. Traditional water-harvesting structures like khadins and tanks also help maximize limited rainfall.