For all one’s inclination to believe that Rajasthan is a Desert, it is difficult to ignore the fact that the region, in fact, has a varied topography, and include from semi-arid, Desert – Like conditions to among the oldest mountains in the world, and lush, water-filled valleys. No wonder too that its wildlife is so rich in variety, including from the Tiger and Leopard to endless varieties of Deer, Rhesus Monkeys, Reptiles including the Python, and a profusion of bird-life that includes Water-Birds.

The Thar Desert, also referred to as the Great Indian Desert, falls for most part within the state, though parts of it do stretch into other states such as Gujarat, Punjab and Haryana and this is what gives Rajasthan its Unique Topographical Character. Unlike the typical Desert, it does not have oasis, palms or cacti and is densely populated. Sand Dunes characterize it, just as much as saline depressions and Lakes.

Another Distinguishing natural feature in Rajasthan is the Aravalli mountain Chain, often referred to as hills because the height is rarely beyond a thousand meters. The folds of the Rajputs princes to establish their citadels, but the mountains are among the oldest in the world, the result of early volcanic activities also responsible for their mineral wealth of copper, zinc, cobalt manganese, asbestos, soapstone, and garnet and marble. Since the Aravallis tended to be heavily forested, they became a natural refuge for birds and animals. Even though human degradation of environment has led to deforestation, in areas where the forests are still thick, the reserves continue to offer sanctuary to their original, resident and migrant species.