Sam Dunes, Rajasthan.
Photo © Mohit Gupta, All Rights Reserved

In Rajasthan, as in other deserts, camels play a vital role in the daily life right from transportation, food, to being part of all various traditions and festivities. The tradition of Camel Racing, which can be traced back to desert culture of the Arabian Peninsula and the Middle East, is one such tradition which is part of nearly all Thar festivities. The race usually happens in vast open fields of nothing but sand. Each camel is accompanied by a rider and a ‘whipper’, who whips the camel as soon as the whistle goes to give it that extra ounce of ‘inspiration’.

Camel Racing has become one of the major attractions in all tourism inspired desert winter festivals throughout the state of Rajasthan. Situated in midst the Thar Desert 42km of Jaisalmer, Sam dunes is famous for its dunes and is probably one of the best places to witness these races. Oflate Sam has become a major tourist attraction and its really difficult to enjoy a solitary desert sunset at this place.