Indian Excursions » Rajasthan Horse Safari

INDIAN EXCURSIONS

RAJASTHAN HORSE SAFARI

INDIAN BREEDS
The horse safaris give you an understanding of the pure breed Indian horses. The main breeds in Northwest India are Sindhi, Kathiawari and Marwari, which originate from Pakistan, Gujarat and Jodhpur areas respectively.

These Indian breeds are different to thoroughbred horses as they are smaller in built, girth and height. The Sindhi is the largest of the three with more facial hair while the Marwari is smaller and Kathiawari the smallest but most temperamental. Compared to thoroughbreds they all therefore require less feed and fodder and have a thin coat unlike thoroughbreds of cooler climates. The hoof diameter is smaller and the pastern and fetlock joints are very flexible. These characteristics are an advantage in clearing obstacles in Indian cross-country conditions, as they respond to commands promptly and the rapport is immediate once they recognize the rider's capabilities.

SADDLERY
The saddles we use are Indian cavalry 'Sawar' saddles that are simple but strong and were used by the British cavalry in India. These saddles allow air to pass between the horses back and do not make it sore. However we recommend that those with a medical situation get their own sheep skin to be put over the saddle. We also suggest you bring your own riding flaps, helmets and boots. We provide standard size stirrups so we would highly recommend getting your own stirrups to avoid a last minute problem.

RIDING SCHEDULE
The riding begins at around 8.30 am after breakfast carrying a packed lunch. The 2-3 hours of riding involves stopping by at interesting villages etc. Around 12 we stop for lunch at a convenient place and this rest allows for interaction with locals and demonstrations of turban tying, expert hair cutting designs on the horse etc. Begin riding again at 2.00 pm for another two hours. Support staff travel in jeeps and set up camp in the meantime to welcome you with tea on arrival. Later beverages and entertainment is followed by dinner.

TENTS
Shamiana type oriental twin sharing tents are provided with cots, chairs, linen, quilts, duvets, blankets, pillows, mosquito nets, hot water bottles and lighting with kerosene lamps.

Toilets and bath tents are with covered roof and zippers with wooden floor and cloth hangers. They have a wooden/metal commode with a pit. Hot water is provided in buckets in the morning and evening along with mirror, washbasin, soap and towels.

DINING AREA AND MEALS
Dining tent has chairs and tables. The dining area is lighted by petromax /gas lights. In a rectangular courtyard space is provided for entertainment, bonfires etc.

MEALS
Tea, Coffee and soup is in abundance. The main course is a fixed menu is a choice of a wide variety of Indian and continental dishes.

STAFF AND THEIR TENTS
Each trip is accompanied by a cook, helper, outrider and groom. Outrider is an English speaking escort rider who carries a whistle and blows the whistle to stop the riders in case any member is in distress. Grooms are provided for every 3 horses that saddle, unsaddle, feed and water the horses. He also gives a sand bath and grooms the horses whenever required. The kitchen and staff tents are pitched at a little distance and the horses also get windbreakers and open tents where required.

SUPPORT VEHICLE
Non-riding members commute in the jeep using all the services so that they can enjoy the trip with their riding spouses /friends.

We have two suggested itineraries

1. Horse safari of Jodhpur region
2. Horse safari of Shekhawati region

JODHPUR HORSE SAFARI
Duration: 13 Days
Best Season: October to March
Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Jodhpur - Rohit - Bhadrajun - Chanod Kumbhalgarh - Ranakpur - Udaipur

For Booking or more detail contact us

THE SHEKHAWATI HORSE SAFARI
Duration: 10 Days
Best Season: October to March
Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Mandawa - Nawalgarh - Dundlod Samode - Delhi

For Booking or more detail contact us