India, July 29 -- Tucked into the Thar Desert, Osian is an ancient town that predates several cities in Rajasthan by centuries. The sacred town is also popularly called the Khajuraho of Rajasthan for the intricacy of its temple carvings. Rising just beyond the town outskirts, Osian's dunes are vast, golden, and spectacular at sunrise, and free from crowds and tourist infrastructure. If you want to stay away from the well-worn tourist circuit, Osian is the place for you.

Check out our story on Barmer, a hidden desert gem in Rajasthan.

What is Osian and why should you visit? Osian is an ancient oasis town in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, located about 65 km from Jodhpur. It is famed for its 8th- to 12th-century intricately carved Hindu an...