Tours of the Raj, India
Reviews
“Riding through the desert villages you are way off the 'tourist' map, you see real India untouched by airconditioned coaches, a photographers paradise with a colourful image at every turn. Riding in amongst camels, buffalo, tuktuks and goats, on horses that make light work of cantering along sand dunes, riding will never be the same again. The horse fairs are truly biblical, you just have to experience this safari.”
Caroline M.
“The best safari trip so far! The attention to detail by Durga and Devendra cannot be matched; they think of everything and make you feel like part of the family.” S W.
“Riding on these horses was an honour which I doubt can be equalled!” Debbie H.
Horses
Type of horses:
All Indian pure breeds - Marwaris, Kathiawadis and the Sindhis; for the layman they are horses with curly and touching ears
Nature of horses:
Very spirited and lively but well schooled and responsive to the rider
Height of horses:
14-15.2 hh
Weight limit:
90kgs
Tack type:
Indian cavalry 'Sawar' saddle
Weather
Current Conditions:
Haze, 32 C
Forecast:
Fri - Thunderstorms. High: 33 Low: 27
Sat - Thunderstorms. High: 31 Low: 27
Full Forecast at Yahoo! Weather
(provided by The Weather Channel)
Pricing
Forts and Castles of Shekhawati
2010 price: £2116 per person based on shared accommodation
Single room Supplement: £293. 2011 price: £2200 per person. Single room Supplement: £335.
Services from arrival in Nawalgarh on day two until departure from Nawalgarh
on day 10 includes: all meals, royal welcome with horses, folk music, garlands, tika and non alcoholic welcome drink on arrival. Tea at stables and a welcome gift to each member on day one, picnic breakfast on day two in the countryside, groom services, accompanying/invited folk musicians, barber to show horse/camel haircut, demonstration and massage tired guests at lunch time halt, accompanying 4X4 jeep, English-speaking guide.
Not included: Cost of beverages, mineral water, beer, and alcoholic drinks.
Expenses of personal nature like laundry, medication, etc. Insurance charges flights or travel insurance.
Shekhawati and Aravalli Range Horse Safari
2010 price: The cost of this six day safari is £1472 per person for 2 - 5 pax and £1196 per person for 6 - 12 pax. 2011 price: £1798 per person for 2 - 5 and £1464 per person for 6 - 12 riders.
Includes: All arrangements starting from arrival in Nawalgarh, all meals, mineral water and soft drinks, sightseeing of Nawalgarh including entrance tickets and guide.
Not included: Items of personal nature such as alcoholic and other non alcoholic drinks, laundry, sundries etc, personal service tips and gratuities, transport Delhi - Nawalgarh - Gorian (Sikar ) - Delhi, telephone calls, faxes and all forms of communication, flights or travel insurance.
Pushkar Fair Safari
The cost of this 13 night ride is £2258 per person. There is a single supplement of £209for your time in Pushkar.
Safari and price starts from arrival at Nawalgarh, Includes: All meals from day two lunch to day fourteen lunch, grooms services, English speaking safari leader escort, accompanying 4X4 jeep, campfire, folk music entertainment everyday at the camps, guide and entrance tickets at nawalgarh and at Jaipur, transport car/van/deluxe coach from Pushkar fair - Jaipur.
Not Included: Beverages, mineral water or alcoholic drinks, Insurance, medication or expenses of personal nature laundry etc, flights, travel insurance.
Non rider price: £1746 per person. Non – rider spouses/friends could join the safari traveling in 4x4 jeep with an English speaking escort. They occasionally cross the riding route and are with the riders at picnic lunch and again at the safari camp.
Price does not include flights or travel insurance.
Balotra Horse Fair Safari
£1987 per person. Please note there is a single supplement of £50 for use of single room in Jodhpur. There are no single tent supplements on the safari. If guests require we will provide single occupancy tents.
Non riders spouses and friends joining the safari travelling in 4x4 jeep: £1789
Included on arrival to Jodhpur: Accommodation on a twin-share basis with attached bathrooms/showers rooms as stated in itinerary, sightseeing tours & excursions as specified. Entrance tickets at jodhpur fort, airport/railway station transfers as specified at jodhpur, all meals during safari and at Jodhpur, English speaking guide, local representatives, tour managers, transport private car/Jeep/tempo traveler Van, all meals starting from arrival in jodhpur till departure from jodhpur
Not included: Items of personal nature such as alcoholic and other non alcoholic drinks, laundry, sundries etc, single room or sole occupancy costs supplements, personal service tips and gratuities, insurance, telephone calls, faxes and all form of communication, flights, travel insurance.
Services of arrival/departure airport, transfer at Delhi, hotel at Delhi and air/train tickets are provided and costed by our our associate company ' Royal Expeditions New Delhi' if required.
Price does not include flights or travel insurance.
Taalchapar Sanctuary Ride
2010 price: £1840 per person (no single supplement for accommodation at Roop Niwas or in camps). 2011 price: £1924 per person (no single supplement for accommodation at Roop Niwas or in camps).
Includes:
All meals from day two lunch to day eleven dinner, groom service to look after horses, English speaking safari leader, accompanying 4X4 jeep to carry hand baggage, icebox with beverages etc, campfire, folk music entertainment everyday at the camps, guide and entrance tickets at Nawalgarh and at Bikaner, transport car/ van/deluxe coach from Taalchapper to Bikaner, sightseeing of Bikaner and transfer to railway station, air-conditioned sleeper class train ticket from Bikaner to Delhi.
The deluxe camps on safari have fully furnished oriental tents with complete bed linen, floor covering, chairs, adjoining toilet and bath tents. Towels, soap hot water provided for bath morning and evening.
Regular dining tents with sit down arrangements. All meals have a choice of Indian and continental dishes. At Pushkar the riders stay at tourist camps approved by the government. We camp with our Horses has horse breeders in fair grounds. The tourist camps have attached toilet/showers with running water and electricity.
Does not include:
- Beverages, mineral water or drinks
- Insurance, medication or expenses of personal nature laundry etc.
- services of arrival/departure airport transfer at Delhi. Hotel at Delhi. Travel by car from Delhi to Nawalgarh.
- services of arrival transfer at Delhi railway station/ hotel/ transfer to international airport on return from the Safari.
( these services are costed and provided by our associate travel agency Royal expeditions New Delhi at extra cost if required.
Price does not include flights or travel insurance.
Availability/Booking Form
Ride Description
Experience the thrill of riding through the magnificent former Raj kingdoms on pure bred Indian horses. Although each ride is unique all the itineraries planned provide an unusual and interesting experience with horses/camels along with a complete insight into the desert life style, a chance to view the flora and fauna of Rajasthan and to interact with the local population by way of village visits.
Lunch halts and camping sights are in unique settings. Unlike routes of mountain trails, these routes pass through semi deserted terrain , forests, salt lake, marshes and flat grass lands.
Each ride offers opportunities for all types of riding from walking through to galloping.
A fleet of vehicles which includes three large trucks, one mini-truck, one four wheel drive jeep/trailer, one tractor/trolley, and camel cart water tanks follows the ride each which enables us to operate efficiently and means you have nothing to worry about but your own enjoyment.
There are five main safari routes which range from seven to ten nights although it is requested that you arrive at least two days before hand to familiarise yourself with your horse and the nature of your chosen route.
See Programmes.
Food & Accommodation
Accommodation is split between one of the best palace hotels in Rajasthan, selected guests houses on route and luxurious tented campsites when you are on safari.
Usually on arrival at your destination you spend 2-3 days at the palace hotel which is a fascinating blend of European and Rajput architecture. The palace has spacious lawns, a billiards room and a swimming pool.
The Camp consists of tented accommodation in Shamiana type oriental tents on twin sharing / single basis. Each tent cubicle is provided with cots, chairs, linen, white sheets, quilts, blankets, pillows, mosquito nets, hot water bottles and a full floor covering , lighting in tents is by kerosene lamps. The dining tent and kitchen are lit by petromex/gas lamps.
There are also toilet and bath tents. These are one piece units with a covered roof and zippers. The bath tents have wooden floors, foot mats and hangers for clothes. The toilet tents have a wooden / metal commode with a pit. Hot water for bathing is provided in buckets both in the morning and evening. Soaps, towels, looking mirrors and wash basins are provided.
Your food is prepared by an-ex Army cook who has a lifetime of experience cooking for officers moving with the Paltans. In army language this type of lunch is called 'haver sack'. The variety of menus is astounding and no two lunches have a common menu. Instead of giving individual lunch boxes, a buffet is laid out. Tea/Coffee is served piping hot in insulated containers. Portable stools are carried in the jeep, to be used by the guests at lunch time.
The dining tent has regular sit down arrangement with chairs and tables. Fixed menu meals with a choice of Indian and continental dishes for every meal are provided. Tea and coffee after each meal and soup at dinner is for unlimited consumption.
The camp is set out with a large rectangular courtyard for camp fires and folk entertainment. Each evening a different demonstration or talk is given ranging from local horse medicine, wildlife, Indian cooking or the caste system. The dining tent is on one side while the other three sides are guest tents. The adjacent space is utilised for bath and toilet tents.
Activities
These rides are point to point so each day will bring new and exciting activities. Aside from the spectacular landscape, you will have the opportunity to visit a private home and meet the family members, learn how to cook traditional Indian dishes and share them with your group and enjoy the nightly folk music performed by the team.
Some guests might choose to relax during a massage after a long day of riding whilst those visiting in March can experience the vibrancy and excitement of the world famous Balotra horse fair. Ladies have the opportunity to see how Indian henna is applied and might even choose a design for themselves to be painted on.
Non riders are welcome to accompany their riding partners on the trip and travel by jeep to each destination. They are an integral part of the trip and participate in all activities except riding.
Further Details
Languages: English
Health requirements: In order to enjoy this trip you have to be fit and a confident rider on all paces. Riders should be prepared for 25-40 kms of riding a day.
Age limit: No specific age limit but see health requirements.
Tuition: Yes
Included: All riding, accommodation, all meals, accompanying English speaking escort, services of the grooms, nightly music and entertainment, guide and entrance tickets to some activities
Not included: Flights and transfers, pre and post safari tours/drinks/transfers/gratuities and personal insurance, telephone calls, faxes and internet, alcoholic drinks.
Travel Information
Flights operate to New Delhi and Jaipur from London airports.
Transfers will be organised for you at an additional cost.
Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi
Alternative Airport: Sanganer International Airport, Jaipur
Programmes
Forts and Castles of Shekhawati
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This safari creates the age-old charm of horseback travel. Let your senses sway to the romance of the desert as you pass forts, palaces and historical landmarks. Gallop on the deserts, plains and canter through the hills. Spend the evening in luxurious camps and swing to the folk dances. Day 1: Arrive at New Delhi airport. There are two options; one is to arrange your own hotel in Dehli and transport to Nawalgarh the following day. The other option is to take an early flight into Dehli (BA, arrives early in the morning from Heathrow), arrange for transport to meet you at the airport and transfer you to Nawalgarh the same day. The journey takes around six hours and you will arrive in Nawalgarh in the evening. We are able to assist you with hotels and transfers and please advise us of your plans before booking. Day 2: Delhi - Nawalgarh 
 Morning drive to Nawalgarh of around six hours (can be arranged at an additional cost). Arrive in Nawalgarh by lunch time an area steeped in romantic history, chivalry and valour. Formerly known as Rajputana, it boasts of the finest fortress-palaces, built with sandstone quarried from the land itself. In contrast with the pastel shades of the desert landscape are the brightly coloured costumes of its handsome people. With its turbaned men and richly jewelled women, it’s Havelis and villages, its fairs and festivals, Rajasthan beckons you. A visit to such locations gives you a rare insight into the world of princely India now largely lost. The Safari tour incorporates some of these atmospheric locations. You will receive a Royal Welcome on arrival at the Roop Niwas Palace with horses, camels, folk music flower garlands and non alcoholic welcome drink. The Palace has a lovely, spacious lawns, a billiard room and a swimming pool. In the evening you will meet at the stables over tea, welcome gifts are distributed and Devendra singh ji helps guest choose their horse and ride around the palace grounds. Cocktails and detailed briefing of the tour with an introduction to the arid region ecology followed by Dinner. Overnight Roop Niwas Palace. Day 3: Nawalgarh. Morning ride out with picnic breakfast around Nawalgarh to get accustomed to your horses. Afternoon sightseeing to Nawalgarh town by car/camel/buggy with a guide. Overnight Roop Niwas Palace. Cross country safari commences from 4th august, average riding distances are 25-40 kilometers per day. Day 4: Nawalgarh - Dundlod The route will be through picturesque villages and farms. The Safari will move about 20 to 30 Kms a day with a lunch halt and breaks for tea coffee and refreshments. Ride from Roop Niwas Palace to Dundlod Fort. After having traveled through sandy tracks of Shekhawati, you enter the village of Dundlod. The village is noted for its two impressive Goenka Haveli and its painted Goenka chhatri or cenotaphs. You will stay here as special guests in a quaint fort which stands in the middle of the village, almost Scottish in its design. Inside you will find an interesting Mughal-style, divan khana or hall, with copies of Louise XIV furniture and old family portraits of the local thakur (chieftain’s) family. Overnight stay at Dundlod Fort. Day 5: Dundlod - Mandawa Ride from Dundlod Fort to Mandawa Castle. This morning as you leave your hotel and ride through the town onto dry sandy tracks and through farmland. Lunch will be in a desert woodlot of KER bushes at churi. At this time of the year most land is planted with crops being raised by monsoon rain. Crops being bajra (millet) lentils and guar. Mandawa was founded mid-18th century, it has interesting murals in the large rugged fort (c1755) built by Thakur Nawal Singh. Two imposing gateways lead to the central courtyard where canons stand as a reminder of the past when they were used to repel the enemy. The Diwan Khana (Durbar Hall) looks into the reception and lounge area and provides ample space for the you to relax over exotic refreshments. The courtyards and the terraces come to life in the evenings with enchanting candle-lit dinners and traditional fire dance. The rooms are large and airy and retained the old flavor using period furniture and local furnishing. They provide a blend of modern comfort in medieval surroundings. Overnight Mandawa Castle. Day 6: Mandawa - Mehansar Ride from Mandawa Castle to Mehansar Fort. This morning you leave your hotel and ride through the town onto dry sandy tracks. Visit typical local farmer families home at village Dhakas. Lunch stop is near Nangli, on a high sand dune "Gogameri". Here there is a temple dedicated to famous folk hero "Gogaji". The area has a large population of peacocks in the wild. Mahensar was founded in mid 18th century. Don’t miss the frieze of the battle scene, as delicate as a miniature painting. The Raghunath Temple with beautiful paintings resembling the Bikaner school of art are worth seeing. Overnight stay at Mehansar Fort. Day 7: Mehansar - Desert Resort OR Jainiwas Kothi Ride from Mehansar Fort to Desert Resort -Jainiwas Kothi. The Desert Resort is recreated in the style of a typical Rajasthani Village. The mystery and romance of the desert are captured in the unusual architecture of the Resort. The exteriors are decorated with traditional lime paste mandana or rice flour patterns which are redone daily by women from the village, while the interiors are ornamented with mirror-work and glass beads in myriad colours. Each cottage has a double bed, an intimate seating area, and a spacious bathroom, complemented by woven fabric and hand-made pottery or you can choose to stay in a spacious deluxe suite of rooms. Overnight stay at Desert Resort in Mud Cottages. OR Jainiwas Kothi. Day 8: Desert Resort - Naharsingani Ride from the Desert Resort Mandawa to Kothi Naharsingani. The ride takes you through semi-desert farming country a typical shekahawati landscape, fields dotted with Khejri trees, low sand dunes, small villages with common grazing woodlots and desert flora and fauna. Picnic lunch en route. On arrival you will stay at Naharsinghani Farm house, a working farm. Evening traditional folk entertainment around a camp fire is followed by a traditional Indian meal. A talk will also be given on the history of the region and customs and traditions that are prevailing in India. (You may stay oriental Shamiana type tents pitched in the courtyard depending on the weather) Day 9: Naharsingani - Nawalgarh Ride from Kothi Naharsingani to Roop Niwas Palace Nawalgarh. Overnight Roop Niwas Palace. Day 10: Nawalgarh and Departure Morning departure from Nawalgarh by private car/ coach for Delhi after breakfast to connect international flight the same evening. |
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| Accommodation: | Various accommodation as per itinerary |
| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 12 |
| Ability description: | You must be a relatively experienced rider with a high level of physical fitness. |
| Type of ride: | Some half day rides to start followed by safari |
| Total riding time: | Long hours in the saddle |
| Departure dates: | 2010 date: 1 - 9 August. 2011 date: 1 -9 August |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Shekhawati and Aravalli Range Horse Safari
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This ride takes you into the Shekhawati region on Marwari horses. You will have the opportunity to spend a few days exploring the palace grounds before setting off on safari. During the rest of the ride you will pass through countryside, stopping to visit havelis to see frescoes, and meet local farmers who keep this particular breed of horses. Day 1: Arrive at New Delhi airport. There are two options; one is to arrange your own hotel in Dehli and transport to Nawalgarh the following day. The other option is to take an early flight into Dehli (BA, arrives early in the morning from Heathrow), arrange for transport to meet you at the airport and transfer you to Nawalgarh the same day. The journey takes around six hours and you will arrive in Nawalgarh in the evening. We are able to assist you with hotels and transfers and please advise us of your plans before booking. Day 2: Delhi to Nawalgarh (6.5 - 7 hours). Royal Welcome on arrival at the Roop Niwas Kothi. Settle in to palace hotel and wander across the spacious lawns or take a dip in the swimming pool. After lunch you will be taken to the stables where you will be introduced to the team for the safari. It will be followed by a briefing on horse riding in India. Later your host will introduce you to your horse, followed by a ride around the field tracks near the palace. In case riders are uncomfortable they can try another horse. Nawalgarh in the Shekhawati region in Rajasthan's districts of Jhunjhunu & Sikar, known for the painting houses or " Havelis " of its wealthy merchant class, the Marwaris. This region could be called the open-air art gallery of Rajasthan. The drive to Shekhawati is through picturesque village and farms. Founded in 1737 AD. By Thakur Nawal Singh, a warrior statesman, whose name is enshrined in history and folklore. The town exudes an old world charm and the colourful bazaar has the largest number of painted Havelies in Shekhawati. Overnight at the palace. Day 3: Morning ride out with picnic breakfast to the countryside, return in time for lunch. Afternoon free time at the palace where ladies are invited to decorate the palms of female guests with henna, then sight seeing of Nawalgarh by car with your guide. Visit havelis to see frescos and painted houses. Overnight at the palace. Day 4: The cross country safari begins. An 18 km ride southeast towards the Aravali ranges. Riding on sand tracks through the arid farmlands with patches of green where farmers have struck water from an aquafer. Arrive at your lunch spot where the staff have set a picnic and the jeep has arrived carrying folk musicians. After lunch you will follow a dry riverbed with lots of Acacia bushes whilst enjoying the sight of the imposing Aravali mountains before reaching your campsite at Parasrampura. Here the safari staff will have set up camp where you will stay overnight. Day 5: An 18 km ride down the dry sandy riverbed to the foothills of the Aravallis to the Pilgrim town of Lohargal. It is said Bhima the strongest of the five Pandava brothers, one of the heroes of the epic Mahabharat, had his mace cast here. Hence, the name ‘Lohargal’, meaning iron smelting. This has also a place of Hindu pilgrimage. Amidst the many old step wells and ruins old structures is the Birla Rest house facing a 2500ft Sheer rock face. In the grounds are many Banyan trees where our horses and kitchen tents are placed. Guests use the rooms, which are furnished by our camp equipment. Overnight at the Birla Rest House Day 6: A 25 km ride in the morning moving southwest towards Sikar following the mountain range again down a dry river bed until you reach Raghunathgarh. The stone quarries here resulted in deep ravines and riding past them is an exhilarating experience. Halt for lunch at midday and then on to overnight camp at a farm. Day 7: Early morning ride followed by late breakfast then say goodbye to your horses. Drive to Jaipur 2.5 or Delhi 7 hrs via Sikar. |
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| Accommodation: | Various accommodation as per itinerary |
| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 12 |
| Ability description: | Riders must be physically fit and confident in canter and gallop for extended periods. |
| Type of ride: | Safari |
| Total riding time: | Long hours in the saddle |
| Departure dates: | Can be arranged anytime when scheduled safaris are not running between October and February. |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Pushkar Fair Safari
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Ride from Nawalgarh to the heartland of the famous Marwari horse to visit India's most popular horse and cattle fair at Pushkar. The safari recreates the old age charm of horseback travel. You will pass through the haunting desert riding towards forts, palaces and historical landmarks. Gallop on the deserts, plains and canter through the hills. Spend evenings camping and listening to folk music. Day 1: (Not included in the price). Arrive at New Delhi airport. There are two options; one is to arrange your own hotel in Dehli and transport to Nawalgarh the following day. The other option is to take an early flight into Dehli (BA, arrives early in the morning from Heathrow), arrange for transport to meet you at the airport and transfer you to Nawalgarh the same day. The journey takes around six hours and you will arrive in Nawalgarh in the evening. We are able to assist you with hotels and transfers and please advise us of your plans before booking. Day 2: Delhi to Nawalgarh. Following breakfast you will need to take a six hour transfer from Dehli to Nawalgarh (additional cost), this can be arranged by us or yourselves. You will need to arrive in Nawalgarh by the evening. You will receive a Royal Welcome on arrival at the Roop Niwas Palace with flower garlands, folk music, horses camels and a non alcoholic welcome drink. Settle in to palace hotel and wander across the spacious lawns or take a dip in the swimming pool. After lunch you will be taken to the stables where you will be introduced to the team for the safari. It will be followed by a briefing on horse riding in India. Evening meet at the stables for tea, distribution of welcome gifts, then choose your horse and ride around the palace grounds. In case riders are uncomfortable they can try another horse. Cocktails and detailed briefing of the tour and introduction talk on the arid ecology of the region followed by dinner. Overnight at the palace. Day 3: Ride out with picnic breakfast to the countryside. Afternoon sightseeing of Nawalgarh town visiting havelies with paintings and frescoes. Overnight at palace. Day 4: Morning ride out with breakfast followed by a visit to farms and meet village folk. Overnight at palace Day 5: A ride southeast towards the Aravali ranges. Riding on sand tracks thorugh the arid farmlands with patches of green where farmers have struck an aquifer. You will follow a dry riverbed with lots of Acacia bushes whilst enjoying the sight of the imposing Aravali mountains before reaching your campsite at Parasrampura. Here the safari staff will have set up camp and transported lunch ready and waiting for you. After lunch you move towards the Aravali mountains and overnight in a camp. Overnight at Birla Rest House Day 6: A morning ride moving southwest towards Danta following the mountain range again down a dry river bed until you reach Raghunathgarh. Then crossing the highway you will leave the Sikar district. Halt for lunch at midday and then on to overnight camp at a farm. Day 7: The riding terrain is through a semi desert region with lots of Khajri trees and some farmhouses with mud huts. Halt for lunch at Kochor village then the ride passes by the Roogarh fort near a mountain pass. You will camp near a small dry water hole surrounded by acacia trees. Day 8: Ride along farm tracks then via a mountain pass at Roopgarh. Rides will pass through Ghatwa where a famous battle took place where 25,000 men lost their lives. From a high sand dune ajoining the mountain range riders get a breath taking view of the five famous forts of this region. Lunch is at an ancient watering hole. Later ride to your camp, set up against the backdrop of the Shyamgarh fort. Overnight at camp. Day 9: Morning ride towards Nawa Salt Lake 42 kms This is the most picturesque part of the safari. After lunch the ride takes you around the periphery of the 100 sq km salt lake. You will come across many shepherds and sheep flocks around you during the ride all culminating in a beautiful sunset. Overnight at camp. Day 10: (45 kms) Today you will ride through the Salt Lake for 8-10kms then follow a stony track along mountain ranges to reach your lunch spot Paner. After lunch you ride into farming and sheep country to reach your camp that has been set up in a dry water catchment area with a backdrop of Kuncha grass and picturesque Aravali mountains in the background. Overnight camps. Day 11: Visit a Gujar shepherd's traditional home. After lunch, ride into a valley to go through a mountain pass and ravines to reach your final campsite. Day 12: Ride approx 25 kms and arrive at Pushkar which is surrounded by orchards and rose farms. Pushkar is famous for typical pink Indian roses which have a strong aroma. You arrive in the village in the afternoon and can see the white domed houses and temples reflected in a tranquil lake. Overnight at Pushkar tented camp. Day 13: In Pushkar explore the incredible camel and cattle fair. Ride morning and evening with the safari leader Shri. Overnight at camp. Day 14: Morning visit to the fair and then drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Sightseeing of Jaipur visiting the city palace museum, astronomical observatory, and then after lunch drive to Delhi via the Amber Fort. Sscend to the fort by elephants if available. The tour and services end in Jaipur at around 16:00. You will need to arrange your own transfer/flight/hotel at an additional cost (we are happy to help with this). Jaipur is around a four hour drive to Dehli (in the daytime and seven hours at night which is not recommended) or it is also possible to take an internal flight Jaipur - Dehli. It is also recommended that you spend a night in Jaipur as it is a beautiful city with so much to see. We can recommend some hotel options on request. |
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| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 12 |
| Ability description: | Must be a confident rider used to long hours riding each day. |
| Type of ride: | Safari |
| Total riding time: | Long hours in the saddle |
| Departure dates: | 2010 date: 4 - 17 November. 2011 date: 25 October - 7 November |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Balotra Horse Fair Safari
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This ride takes you on a journey from Jodhpur to the heartland of the famous Marwari horse and cattle fair at Tilwara (Balotra). The safari recreates the old-age charm of horseback travel. Let your senses sway to the romance of the desert as you pass forts, palaces and historical landmarks. Gallop on the deserts, plains, canter through the hills or just get off and trek along. Spend evenings in camps and swing to folk dances. Day 1: Sunday Arrive at New Delhi airport. Services of transport and hotel on arrival at Delhi to be arranged and costed by our associate travel agency at New Delhi if required. Overnight at Delhi. Day 2: Delhi / Jodhpur overnight on train Day spent sightseeing in New Delhi. You will then need to take the evening train to Jodhpur. Train tickets to be costed and arranged by our associate travel agency at New Delhi. Day 3: Arrival in Jodhpur and transfer to hotel Ratan Vilas Palace. Built in 1920, by Maharaj Ratan Singh, a keen horse lover and one of the greatest polo players of his time, this hotel has an imposing red sandstone carved exterior and simple yet comfortable interior. The villa continues to be the home of the grandson of Maharaj Ratan Singh and his family. In order to utilize this beautiful place the family decided to take in guests and now Ratan Vilas in a family run hotel. After lunch drive 45 minutes to the base camp where the horses and safari team have arrived from Nawalgarh. You are welcomed with folk music and given welcome gifts. The safari riding leader will help you choose a horse, which is followed by a ride around the local countryside. Overnight at the hotel. Day 4: Sightseeing of the Mehrangarh Fort and explore parts of the old city of Jodhpur with car and guide. The Fort is spread over 5 kms on a hill and is an intricately adorned palace with long carved panels and latticed windows. It also has a museum with a rich collection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniature paintings and costumes. After lunch an afternoon drive to the base camp and then riding in the countryside. Jodhpur is on the eastern fringe of the Thar desert and serves as the gateway to the wonderland of sand dunes and shrubs, rocky terrain and thorny trees. Rao Jodha established the Rathore Dynasty in Jodhpur in 1459AD. The spectacular Mehrangarth Fort was hewn out of the rocks and the city of Jodhpur emerged out of the Thar Desert to form the flourishing kingdom of marwar, encompassing some 36000 sq miles and strategically placed on the trade route between Delhi and the middle east. It was also a flourishing trading centre of wood, cattle, camels, salt and agricultural crops. The past, in fact, is never very far behind in Jodhpur where palaces, forts, temples and other elegant monuments of architectural and historical worth vie with each other for attention. Overnight at Ratan Vilas Palace or similar. Day 5: Jodhpur/ Luni/ Satlana The cross country safari begins. Morning drive to base camp to commence your safari.. The lunch stop is in a small rain catchment area beside a temple to folk divinity 'mamoji'. Each day you will cover a distance of 25 to 30 kms riding through open countryside farms and villages. The route follows the dry riverbed of river Luni. Overnight stay will be in tents and each evening there will be camp folk musicians and entertainment. A Camp barber who also does massages will be available to relieve you of any aches and pains of the hard days ride. During the safari you will pass through many settlements of the Bishnoi community who have made environmental protection their religion. The Bishnoi people follow 29 principles laid down by Guru Jambhoji, who made environmental and wildlife protection a "religion" in the fifteenth century. Common throughout Rajasthan and Gujarat they are renowned for a concern for nature, particularly their refusal to harm the black buck, which now survive only in Bishnoi villages. Bishnoi beliefs came to the political forefront in 1730, when the king of Jodhpur ordered his men to collect wood for his new place. Despite the pleas of Bishnois, felling commenced in the small village of Khejadali near Jodhpur. In desperation Amritdevi, a Bishnoi women, hugged a tree. The fellers, assuming that the King’s request was to be respected, ignored her plea. She and 362 of her fellow people lost their lives trying to protect the forest. On hearing the news the king recalled his men and accorded state sanction to the Bishnoi religion, a turning point in the history remembered each September when thousands attend a festival at Khejadali. Day 6: Satlana / Ghana You will ride upstream across a large expanse of dry riverbed of the Luni river. Being very sandy, the going can be slow. After leaving the river bed the ride takes you through villages and dry scrub land. The festival of colour Holi has just passed so in this region people are still celebrating with dancing and drum music. Before reaching the camp you will cross 9 kms of protected bushland of the Ramdev ji temple. Overnight at a camp.The camp is in a farmers field, and in the evening we may have the farmer's family or other ladies of the nearby village visiting our camp. Day 7: Ghana/ Karmavas Ride through dry desert which is arid but not sandy. Riders will be surprised at the clean and well maintained clay houses of the villages. The movement will be to the northwest and riders will approach the campsite with low hills of Aravali range visible on the horizon. Typical desert flora will be seen. Overnight at a camp. Day 8: Karmavas / Asotra Riding towards the hills passing acacia clusters you will cross a local village 'mangla'. The lunch stop is against a backdrop of a hillock facing the dry Luni riverbed. After lunch ride on to asotra (a big suprise green belt). Around ASOTRA aquifer created by the ancient saraswati river basin from 2000 BC has been discovered. As a result farmers pump water by electric pumps and raise crops and riders will go through this fertile oasis belt. Our camp is in a farmer’s field and riders are able to meet the villagers and the family. Camp overnight. Day 9: Asotra / Balotra Fair (Tilwara) Ride until the evening when you will reach Tilwara. Explore the fair grounds on arrival. Evening campfire and folk entertainment. BALOTRA HORSE & CAMEL FAIR In southwest Rajasthan 145 Kms. From Jodhpur on the banks of the dry seasonal river Luni is a small village "TILWARA". The closest town 19 Kms. From Tilwara is Balotra falling in district Barmer of Rajasthan. It was here many centuries ago that the famous ruler MALLINATHJI ruled. He is worshipped as a divinity. The temple to Mallinathji is located on the opposite bank of the dry river Luni from Tilwara village. Every year in the first fortnight of the Hindu month of "Chaitra" a large fair is held here. Horses, camels, bullocks and in the last phase donkeys come to the fair. The fair according to the Christian calendar falls in the month of March./April. The owners of the animals camp in the dry riverbed. They may use their carts or make temporary dwellings from acacia bushes. The prosperous horse owners and traders bring their tents and attendant staff, cooks etc. The animal owners occupy the dry riverbed for many kilometers. They cook, sleep & trade in these temporary dwellings called "AALI" in the local dialect. At sunrise and sunset horse owners display their horses riding up and down the riverbed. Audiences and buyers cheer them. Any body can accost the riders and bid or negotiate the deal. Now the state government organizes horse-judging competitions. The function last year was presided by The Maharaja of Jodhpur. The fair is held in the heartland of our Indian breed of horses. The 'Marwari', some very good horses come to the fair. People from far away states the Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat & Maharashtra come to purchase animals to this fair. It is rare spectacle to see 5 to 7 thousand horses, 15 to 20 thousand camels and about 30 to 40 thousand bullocks and cattle and their owners in the flat expanse of the dry sandy riverbed. The market places, which come up, sell all kinds of goods. Camel carts, water tanks, earthenware utensils, rugs, ropes, horse tack, camel saddles, colourful girdles, beds, doors, brass, copper and steel pots and pans. Many stores of recycled material like conveyor belts, parachute materials, musical instruments & all things which villagers would buy. The fair is a photographer paradise. It takes a visitor to atmosphere of biblical times. One feels to have walked into the past. Our safari camp is set up 1 to 1 and half kilometers on the banks of the riverbed overlooking the fair site. Guests go on their horses and ride around the fair. At a pre-decided point our grooms await them so they can leave their horses and walk around if they want to. Guests have to be warned that temperatures in March are warmer then January / February and can go up to 28-38. However they will be more then rewarded by this extraordinary event and will enjoy the visit immensely. This fair is much larger then the famous Pushkar or Nagaur camel and cattle fair and is not frequented by tourists. At sunset and sunrise there is spectacular display of horse rider on the flat riverbed. It is an unspoiled horse fair. Overnight in camp. Day 10: Balotra Fair Morning and evening rides. An afternoon to explore the fairgrounds. Evening campfire and folk entertainment. Overnight at camp. Day 11: Balotra Fair Morning and evening rides. An afternoon to explore the fairgrounds. Evening campfire and folk entertainment. Overnight at camp. Day 12: Balotra Fair / Jodhpur/ Delhi or onward destination Morning ride around the fair, then lunch followed by transfer to Jodhpur (4 hours) and dinner at Ratan Vilas. Rooms are available to wash and change. Later transfer to railway station for train onto Delhi. Optional Overnight Train - 2462 Jodhpur / Delhi Mandore Express Dep 1930 hrs Arr 0615 hrs. arrive Delhi 31st March 2011. Optional board train Malani Express Balotra-Delhi. Departure Balotra approx. 0530 pm. Riders could also fly Jodhpur-Delhi if timings are suitable, however if flight is delayed or cancelled there is a chance of missing international connection if it is on the same day. Note: March is beginning of summer season riders have to informed that it will be warm during the days. Riding will start early with a long lunch break and ride till late evening. Day temperature will be approximately 25 to 38 C, Night temperature 15 to 20 C. |
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| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 12 |
| Ability description: | You must be a relatively experienced rider with a high level of physical fitness |
| Type of ride: | Safari |
| Total riding time: | Long hours in the saddle |
| Departure dates: | 2011 dates: 20 - 31 march |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Taalchapar Sanctuary Ride
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Day 1: Fly to New Delhi arrival airport transfer, hotel to be arranged by our associate travel agency Royal expeditions New Delhi if required. Day 2: Delhi - Nawalgarh The morning starts with a 6.5 to 7 hour drive to Nawalgarh, arranged by Royal expeditions New Delhi if required. You will receive a Royal welcome on arrival at the Roop Niwas Kothi. Which lies just a kilometer from the town and is a fascinating blend of European and Rajput style of architecture. The Palace has lovely, spacious lawns, a billiard room and a swimming pool. After lunch you will be taken to the stables where you will be introduced to all the team for the safari. It will be followed by a briefing on Horse riding in India. Later Devender Singh will introduce each member to their horse and also advise them how to ride them. You will then ride around the field tracks near the Palace to get accustomed to your horses. Incase riders are not comfortable they can try another horse. Nawalgarh in the Shekhawati region in Rajasthan's districts of Jhunjhunu & Sikar, known for the painting houses or " Havelis " of its wealthy merchant class, the Marwaris. This region could be called the open-air art gallery of Rajasthan. The drive to Shekhawati is through picturesque village and farms. Founded in 1737 AD. By Thakur Nawal Singh, a warrior statesman, whose name is enshrined in history and folklore. The town exudes an old world charm and the colourful bazaar has the largest number of painted Havelies in Shekhawati. Overnight Roop Niwas Kothi, Nawalgarh. Day 3: Nawalgarh Morning ride out with picnic breakfast in the countryside, return in time for lunch. Afternoon free time at the palace, there is an optional invite to ladies to have their palms decorated with henna . This is followed by sightseeing of Nawalgarh by car with a guide visiting havelis to see frescos and painted houses. Overnight Roop Niwas Palace. Day 4: Nawalgarh. Morning ride around Nawalgarh. During the ride you will visit farm houses and village homes of people who keep the local breed of Marwari horses. You will have the chance to visit the stables and have interactive meetings with the farmers. Picnic lunch en route. Afternoon talk by on Marwari horses. Followed by interactive discussion. Then a display of Ancient horse medicine book "Salotra" which is a hand written book and of family inheritance. There will be further discussion on how to encourage local horse lovers to continue to keep Marwari horses and beliefs of Indian people and their horses. Traditional folk entertainment and dinner. Overnight Roop Niwas Kothi, Nawalgarh. Day 5: Nawalgarh – barwasi -naharsinghani 26 kms. Ride through semi desert areas with small farms and country side dotted with Khejri trees. You will enjoy an en-route picnic lunch and visit farms where Women farmers are supported by NGO to encourage natural resource management and use of eco friendly farming technique to increase yield. Evening stay at Naharsinghani jod a old ranch house . Day 6: Naharsinghan - Churiajitgarh - Nabipura 22 kms. Ride through semi desert farm countryside before reaching a small woodlot and dry waterhole, surrounded by KER bushes many flocks of blue bull antelopes may be seen around camp site. Overnight in safari camp Day 7: Nabipura - Dabri - Fatehpur Beed 30 kms. Morning ride through semi desert region and Fatehpur Beed. Picnic lunch close to a typical Shekhawati architecture water tank "Johda". The Nawab of Fatehpur 300 years ago encircled a area riding on a horse from sunrise to sunset and declared it protected. Today Fatehpur beed is an amazing 70 sq.km area with all species of desert plants. Camping in Beed one gets to see Desert Fox, Jackal, Blue Bull and Deer. The protected area proves that if humans do not interfere a semi forest can be created in a desert. Overnight Camp near a ruined travellers home overlooking the entire beed. This is a most beautiful campsite . Day 8: Fatehpur Beed - Khuri - Shynanmata 34 kms. Riding west today you will enter territory of the Erstwhile Bikaner state. There will be a sudden change in terrain to large sand dunes which will be amazing. Going will be slow after lunch. Overnight Camp in the protected woodlot of the Shynanmata Rockedifice Temple Day 9: Shynanmata - Khuri - Talchapper 31 kms. Today you ride and leaving the sand dunes you will come to flat loam soil ground. Most of the ride will be through or around the peripheries of Taalchappar the famous black buck game sanctuary. The Scarf’s/Turbans will be useful as fine dust rises when you ride past this flat ground. You will get to see black buck deer and also other deer species during the ride. Overnight Camp will be set up on the peripheries of the sanctuary. Day 10: Taalchappar Black Buck Sanctuary. Full day ride and explore the area around the peripheries of Taalchappar Wildlife Sanctuary. Taalchappar Wildlife Sanctuary covers 71 sq. Kms of desert scrubland. It has the largest herds of black buck antelope in India, besides chinkara gazelle, desert cat, desert fox and other dry land wildlife. Flocks of demoiselle and common cranes can be seen at nearby lakes and wet lands. Bird life include sand grouse, quails, cream coloured desert courser. Picnic lunch. In the evening you return to camp. Overnight Camp will be set up on the peripheries of the sanctuary. Day 11: Taalchapper - Bikaner - Delhi. Early morning ride before saying goodbye to your horses. After breakfast you drive (3.5 hrs) to Bikaner. On arrival Lunch will be at Bheruvilas hotel. After lunch sightseeing of Bikaner visiting the junagarh fort and if time permits the royal cenotaphs. Evening transfer to the Railway station for overnight Train to Delhi. Overnight sleeper Train (Air conditioned class). Day 12: Delhi onward flight. Early morning you will arrive in Delhi. Assistance on arrival in Delhi. Transfer to Hotel. you will spend the day at leisure. Evening transfer to the airport for your flight. to be arranged and costed by travel agency. |
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| Accommodation: | Various accommodation as per itinerary |
| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 12 |
| Ability description: | Experienced riders capable of handling a forward going horse. Riders need to be fit and able to withstand long hours in the saddle. |
| Type of ride: | Safari trail |
| Total riding time: | As per itinerary. |
| Departure dates: | 2010 dates: 19 - 30 October. 2011 dates: 20 November - 1 December |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |