“Riding holiday in India – There is no better way to see Rajasthan than on the back of a beautiful, forward going and spirited Marwari Horse”
The Indian state of Rajasthan is a beautiful amalgamation of the old and new; the ancient and the modern. Historically this is one of India’s richest regions littered with magnificent forts and palaces that were once home, and in many cases still are, to royal princes. Some of these are now hotels where you stay during the ride.
The rides are over a wide variety of terrain, including desert and farmlands, rocky gorges, acacia forests, jungle scrub and the fertile Aravali hills. Ride through the ancient kingdoms of Shekhawati and experience the complete spectrum of life in Rajasthan from subsistence farmers who maintain a very simple existence to the privileged life of the princess.
There are so many vibrant and colourful festivals held across the state that give visitors to Rajasthan a reason to celebrate almost throughout the year. A glittering jewel of India, Rajasthan has something for everyone.
There are great itineraries highlighting the places to see on a visit to India. The Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan is one of the world’s largest camel fairs and a real spectacle to behold, and you will visit this fair during one of the rides. On other rides you visit Jaipur, the bird sanctuary at Bharatpur, one of the largest cattle and horse fairs at Bateshwar, the glorious Taj Mahal at Agra or the sights of Delhi over the spectacular Diwali Festival.
A very special feature of the rides is the horses, the Marwari with their characteristic ears curling in at the top. The horses are spirited and forward going and fun to ride. These Marwari horses come from the stables at Dundlod Castle, home to Kanwar Raghuvendra Singh. This is the largest Marwari stud farm in India and has established a breed improvement programme.
Accommodation during the rides is in a combination of hotels and safari style camps. The hotels are often previous forts and palaces which have been converted into hotels but retain much of their original charm and features. Amidst the sometimes faded grandeur, it is possible to imagine the buildings in their glory days. The safari style camps have large spacious tents and are furnished with made up beds and fabric printed walls.
For more information:
www.inthesaddle.com.