
The
best way to experience Rajasthan is undoubtedly on the back of a horse. A
holiday on horseback is one of the best means of sampling the flavour of
India's old world hospitality and charm in original ethnic surroundings.
Just by opting to ride off the beaten track on an organised horse safari,
with any of a growing number of aristocrat entrepreneurs belonging to the
erstwhile Royal families of Rajputana, a person can revel in the heady
feeling of belonging to a different age, in a timeless and ancient land.
What awaits you is an overwhelming and heady experience - no wonder people
keep coming back for more. If you choose a Horse Safari as a holiday you
will have to bring your own Hard Hats and Boots. A light sweater and jacket
are required for the evenings, and don't forget that pair of binoculars. In
corresponding with your tour operator, it is a good idea to advise them of
your height, weight and riding experience to enable them to match Horse to
Rider.
Anokhi
The Jaipur Polo and Equestrian Academy is located amongst the picturesque
surroundings of the Anokhi Village on the outskirts of the city, five km
from the airport. One can ride along numerous trails that lead to the
interesting countryside or take riding lessons from expert instructors. Polo
lessons and chukkers can also be planned on prior intimation.
Shikarbadi
Located at Udaipur, Shikarbadi used to be the hunting lodge of the Royal
Family of Mewar. Today, it is a well-equipped resort with a number of modern
amenities. There is also a special tented village, a small private lake, a
deer park and the Imperial Stud farm within the resort. The countryside
offers numerous possibilities for day-long safaris.
Shikarbadi has some of the finest stables in the country. Its horse safaris
give the traveller an ideal opportunity to travel off the beaten track and
to discover new facets of the colourful land of Rajasthan.
Aodhi
Aodhi serves as an ideal base for exploring the imposing Kumbhalgarh Fort.
Surrounded by a thickly wooded forest, the ramparts stretch some 36 km. and
encompass a lost world of exquisitely carved temples, a tribal village and
ruins of an old settlement for you to discover. There are a number of
interesting riding trails to whet your appetite for adventure.
Ghanerao
Khem Singh the trail boss of Ghanerao Safari Tours is a Rajput of the
Rathore clan of Ghanerao. His ancestors ruled the Godvad region for over 400
years, and he still lives in his family castle (circa 1606). It is in this
region that one will ride. Khem is a keen naturalist and his knowledge of
the local people, their history and the flora and fauna gives you a deep
insight into Rajasthan and its culture.