India - Pushkar Trail and Ranthambore

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from BM of Taunton on 29/11/2024

Itinerary without Ranthambore below

Itinerary with Ranthambore

Day 1
Arrive in Delhi and transfer to Hotel Vasant Continental or similar.

Day 2
Full day sightseeing in Delhi: Delhi was built in the 17th century, and stands today as an epitome of Indo-Islamic architecture. New Delhi, with so many buildings designed and constructed by the Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker is a mixture of east and west. The day is spent exploring both the old and new cities. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 3
Leave at 8am for the train to Sawaimadhopur. Arrive at Sawaimadhopur at 13:30 and transfer to Tiger Den Resort (or similar) for an afternoon of game viewing in Ranthambore National Park.
Nestled between the Aravali and the Vindhya ranges in southeast Rajasthan, the Ranthambore National Park has been one of India's conservation success stories and is a well known tiger reserve under the "Project Tiger" scheme. The Park's history goes back to the days of the Maharajas when Ranthambore used to be their hunting grounds. It consists of about 400km² of rocky plains, flat hill tops, gentle slopes and precipitous cliffs covered by dry deciduous forests. Besides tigers, the Ranthambore National Park is also home to an expansive variety of other wildlife such as the Sambhar, Cheetal deer, leopard, sloth bear, Chinkara gazelle, wild boar, Indian porcupine, jackal, hyena, marsh crocodile, and the elusive caracal, as well as about 300 species of birds. Overnight Tiger Den Resort, Ranthambore (or similar).

Day 4
Morning game viewing. After breakfast, drive to Pushkar (about 6 hrs drive). Arrive Pushkar and check in at the Clark's Safari Resort, Pushkar or similar. If time permits riders can visit the town of Pushkar.
Pushkar lay on the edge of a small, beautiful lake in eastern Rajasthan. The town has 500 temples and 52 bathing ghats. The origin of Pushkar is lost in a myth. It is believed that Brahma, the creator, was in search of a place to perform a Vedic yagna (sacrifice). As he pondered, a lotus fell from his hands and water gushed from the spot. Today, the faithful bathe in the holy waters of the Pushkar lake on Kartik Poornima (full moon in end of October/ November). On its banks, a mammoth 200000 people and some 50000 camels, cattle and horses become a part of the annual Pushkar fair. Overnight Pushkar and check in at the Clarkes Safari Resort (or similar).

Day 5
Full day in Pushkar

Day 6
Morning drive to Dundold after breakfast (5-6hrs). Arrive in Dundold in the afternoon and transfer to the fort where the group will stay for the next 2 nights. Built in 1750, this is more of an elegant home than a regular hotel, and is the starting point of the rides in the area. Overnight at Dundold Fort.

Day 7
Today the group will visit the stables of the best Mawari horses in the country. Spend the day riding in and around Dundold and the afternoon relaxing with a visit to the famous frescoes. Overnight at Dundold Fort.

Day 8
After breakfast ride to Churi Ajitgarth (25km). Ride through villages, farmlands and quaint local dwellings. The terrain is soft and sandy, making for easy riding. The Shekawati region is known as Rajasthan's open-air art gallery. No other region in India or perhaps, even in the world, has such a large concentration of high quality frescoes. Arrive at the Vivaana Culture Hotel, once a merchant's mansion (or similar).

Day 9
Ride to Mandawa (25 km) passing through a sandy countryside, farm lands and villages. There are good chances of seeing some wildlife in the form of the Nilgai antelope (which is the biggest antelope in India ) and the graceful Chinkara gazelle. Stay in a beautiful mud hut like rooms with all facilities, an experience of a village life. Overnight in Desert Resort Mandawa (or similar).

Day 10
After breakfast, ride to Mehansar (about 30kms) passing through a landscape of sand dunes, farm lands and villages. Again, there are opportunities to see wildlife in the form of the Nilgai and Chinkara gazelle. Arrive Mehansar and ride into the Narayan Niwas Castle. Please note that the Narayan Niwas Castle is a private home and facilities are quite basic. Hot water is supplied in buckets. Please do not expect any luxuries here. However, the hosts are lovely people and they make you feel at home. Overnight in Mehansar Fort (or similar).

Day 11
Ride to Ghanghu (35 km). Like on the previous days, the ride today is through a desert like country with opportunities of good canters. The trail follows sand dunes, open land and some farmers’ dwellings. At camp the riders can enjoy a camel ride. The tents are reminiscent of military camps with have all facilities and mobile toilets and a camp fire to enjoy in the the evening. Overnight in a Tented Camp.

Day 12
Ride to Alsisar (30 km) passing many villages and farm lands along the way, with open spaces to canter alongside the Chinkara deer and Blue Bulls.

Day 13
After a leisurely breakfast, bid goodbye to the horses and camp staff and drive to Jaipur (4.5hr). Arrive in Jaipur and check in at Hotel Alsisar Haveli (or similar). In the afternoon there is a sightseeing tour of Jaipur, the rose-pink capital of Rajasthan, surrounded on all sides by rugged hills and crowned with forts. Jaipur is noted for its craftsmen skilled in the art of cutting precious stones and famed for its garnets and rubies. It is equally well known for brass inlay work, lacquer work and the printings of muslin. In the city one can visit the City Palace which houses a museum containing rare manuscripts, paintings and an armoury; the Jantar Mantar observatory - built in the 17th century by Jai Singh - with a sundial 90ft.high; the Museum amidst the Ram Niwas Palace Gardens founded in 1876 with a large collection of antiques; the Palace of Winds, a landmark of Jaipur made of pink sandstone and of unique design. Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 14
In the morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Amber Fort, which includes an elephant ride to the fort. Situated 12km from Jaipur, the fort houses an imposing palace that overlooks a lake at the entrance to a rocky mountain grove. Built in the 17th century, the palace is a fine example of Rajput architecture. Spend the afternoon exploring more sights or simply relax. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 15
After an early breakfast, drive to Agra (about 4-5 hrs) via Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted city of Emperor Akbar. The name means "The City of Victory". The audience halls, palaces, and the mosques are still in a state of perfection as are the tomb of Shiekh Salim Chisti, Panchmahal and the Buland Darwaza. Arrive Agra and check in the hotel Jaypee Palace (or similar).
Afternoon sightseeing of Agra Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is one of the most important stronghold of the Mughals, embellished with a number of richly decorated buildings encompassing the imposing Mughal style of art and architecture. Spreading over an area of about 94 acres of land, it comprises many fairy-tale palaces, such as the Jehangir Palace and the Khas Mahal, built by Shah Jehan (the builder of Taj Mahal), audience halls, such as the Diwan-i-Khas and two very beautiful mosques. Overnight Jaypee Palace (or similar) Agra.

Day 16
Morning sightseeing tour of the Taj Mahal. After lunch, drive to Delhi (about 4 to 5 hrs ) and transfer to hotel for dinner. After dinner, transfer to International Airport in time for departing international flights.

Itinerary Without Ranthambore

Day 1
Arrive Delhi o/n hotel Vasant continental or similar ( check in time 12 noon ).

Day 2
Sightseeing of Delhi o/n Delhi

Day 3
Early morning train for Ajmer. Arrive Ajmer and drive to Pushkar o/n Pushkar Bagh resort or similar

Day 4
In Pushkar

Day 5
Drive to Dundold o/n Dundold

Day 6
Ride at Dundold o/n Dundold

Day 7
Ride to Churi o/n Vivaana culture

Day 8
Ride to Mandawa o/n desert resort

Day 9
Ride to Mehansar o/n Narain Niwas castle

Day 10
Ride to Ghanghu o/n camp

Day 11
Ride to Alsisar o/n Alsisar mahal

Day 12
Drive to Jaipur o/n hotel Alsisar Haveli or similar

Day 13
In Jaipur

Day 14
Drive to Agra o/n hotel Jaypee palace or similar

Day 15
Drive to Delhi and transfer to international airport in time for flight leaving back for home.

Single supplement policy
The single supplement is compulsory if booking alone but halved if you are willing to share and we cannot find you a sharer.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

The horses are mostly Marwari horses with a few Kathiawari and Sindhi horses, all of which are indigenous to India and range from 14hh to 16hh. They are lean but very fit horses which makes them most suitable for desert safaris. Your hosts breed these horses and they are kept in absolutely immaculate condition. Marwari horses are warm blooded and thin skinned not unlike Arabians. They are all very well schooled, responsive, forward going and have no vices.

The tack is all made in India from fine leather of Kanpur. The saddles are known as SAWAR (rider) saddles as they are designed for Cavalry - they are not dissimilar to polo or army saddles, see our pictures for more details. They are comfortable for horses and safe for the riders. The saddle covers and martingales are made up of the Dundlod family colours.

The exotic beauty and vigour of the Marwari horse is their lasting heritage. Marwari was bred to lift the heart in battle and please the eye. He is easily recognised by his proud carriage, upright graceful neck and distinctive aquiline head with deep expressive eyes, the crowning glory of which are the unique inward curling or scimitar shaped ears set high on the poll and without exception unique to the noble Indian horse. The intelligence and natural regal bearing of the Marwari is blended with tremendous equipoise, graceful animated gaits and stamina. He displays an alert stillness when in repose and incredible elan vital in action. Hardiness and longevity have enabled the breed to survive wars, famine and droughts. The Marwari agreeably adapts to different life styles and environmental conditions and performs in various sports and formal riding disciplines. Loyal, tireless and competitive, the Marwari has evolved from one of the world ancient breeds to present a new archetype of beauty, brilliance and personality.

Riders of an intermediate level onwards. There are some steadier horses for nervous riders but beginners or novices cannot be accommodated. There are grooms available who will ride the horses while the rider rests in the jeep if you are feeling tired at any stage. This is a full service trip and no participation by riders is needed in the horse care. The maximum weight limit is 95kg. The minimum riding age is 14 year old. Not suitable for non riders.

The weight limit for this ride is 209 lb/95 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

The accommodation is in some of the historic Forts and Palaces of the impressive Rajasthan region. At the Pushkar Fair the accommodation is in a large tented camp site, fully furnished and possibly even more luxurious than the African Safari tents.

The food is varied and fresh. Indian meals are available but a choice of western dishes are always available. The level of spicing is variable but generally milder and vegetarian dishes are also always on offer.

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures and requirements while travelling. You’ll need to get a visa before travelling to India. This can be applied for online at the following website, www.indianvisaonline.gov.in Make sure you get the right visa for your travel and that it’s valid for the purpose and duration of your stay. If you enter India on the wrong visa, you could be detained on arrival and you may be deported and blacklisted, meaning that you cannot enter India again. Make sure you meet entry requirements. You can find further information on the Indian High Commission website or the Indian Immigration Bureau website. To avoid possible problems at immigration, make sure your passport is valid for a minimum of 180 days at the time of entry into India. Your passport must be machine readable, with 2 blank pages for your visa and valid for a minimum of 180 days at the time of your visa application. Always keep a copy of your passport and your Indian visa separate from your passport, in case of loss Airport tax User Development Fees (UDF) apply at many airports. The fees are around Rs.1,000 per international passenger and Rs.150 to 260 per domestic passenger. This should already be included in the cost of airline tickets. If for any reason the fee is not included in your ticket it will be collected at the airport check-in counter in Indian rupees. Passport and Visa requirements can change regularly depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india In the USA: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/India.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/india

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions

The temperature although warm during the day (max 30C) will drop in the evenings to approx 13C. It is therefore essential to have a warm fleece to hand especially when camping.

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever occur all year round. There’s been an increase in the number of cases of dengue fever, including in New Delhi.

Health authorities have classified India as having a risk of Zika virus transmission.

Cases of Chikungunya Virus have been confirmed in India, including in New Delhi. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in India and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

You should make sure you have sufficient medical supplies (including prescription medicines) for the duration of your stay and any unforeseen delays, adequate travel insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation.

Sunscreen and insect repellent is advised.
As with all countries where the bacteria present in water and around food are not those to which we are accustomed you are advised to exercise a degree of care. Bottled water is widely available, but check that bottle seals are intact and water levels reach the top. Fruit and raw vegetables which can be peeled are fine. Avoid ice cubes, diluted fruit juices and any unpasteurized/unboiled milk.

In India the supply voltage is 230V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 230V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.

Bring phone and electrical equipment chargers for night in hotels and a power bank for nights in the camp. If using a GoPro ensure that you have the group's permission to be filmed.

Pack as you usually would for a holiday, for e.g. sunglasses, toiletries and then these are your Horse Riding holiday essentials. If you are unsure, please speak with your Travel Consultant:
ESSENTIALS FOR ALL RIDING HOLIDAYS
Riding helmet – complying with current EU & British standards – (some locations, mostly in the EU, can provide them but if possible bring your own for comfort and correct fit)
Riding boots designed for riding and walking
Chaps
At least 2 pairs of riding trousers – jodhpur’s/breeches are best for anything, except western riding (Jeans)
Long sleeved shirts
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Water bottle
Mobile phone
Gloves
Jodhpurs - jodhpurs, breeches or other comfortable trousers (jeans may rub and can also be quite hot)
Chaps
Shirts with long sleeves and collar
T-Shirts, ideally with collar for sun protection
Jumper / fleece
Body warmer (for Dec / Jan rides)
Wind and rain resistant jacket (for Dec / Jan rides)
Woolly hat (for Dec / Jan rides) as camp nights can get very cold
Warm jacket / ski jacket (Dec / Jan rides)
Light scarf / bandana, for sun and dust/sand protection
Long riding socks / thick hiking socks with good absorption
Bum bag, to keep easy to reach items such as camera / sun block etc. The backup jeep is never far away and will carry other required items you may need.
Seat saver, if you ride with a seat saver, or prefer to use one on longer rides, then please bring it. Dundlod Stables have a limited few for your use at no charge

Non-Riding times:
Comfortable shoes for sightseeing in and to wear around the camps
Casual clothes for sightseeing in
1 - 2 changes of smarter clothes for evenings at the heritage hotels
Flip-flops for use in the camp shower
Swimming costume if you wish to swim at the heritage hotels that have pools
A scarf / pashmina is useful for covering your head when visiting places of worship
A hat for walking around in, wide-brimmed is recommended for sun protection

** As a sign of respect for rural traditions, men and women should wear trousers (or a calf-length skirt). Try to avoid tank-tops and shorts. As a general rule, knees and shoulders should be covered.
** Towels are provided in the hotels and at the camps, no need to bring a towel (unless you wish)

With Ranthambore: 16d / 15n programme with 7 riding days. Available on a set date each year to coincide with the fair.
Without Ranthambore: 15d / 14n programme with 6 riding days. Available on a set date each year to coincide with the fair.

2025: 30 Oct - 13 Nov (without Ranthambore); 29 Oct - 13 Nov (with Ranthambore)

• £
• €
• US $
• SEK

India (Lonely Planet Country Guides) - Sarina Singh

City of Djinns - William Dalrymple

The Great Railway Bazaar: By Train Through Asia - Paul Theroux

An Indian Summer - James Cameron

Into India - John Keay

No Full Stops in India - Mark Tully

Rajasthan; India's Enchanted Land- Raghubir Singh

Rajasthan; Land of Kings - S. Matheson & R. Beny

The Royal Palaces of India – G. Michell & A. Martinelli

Arts and Crafts of Rajasthan - A. Nath & F. Wacziarg

Plain Tales from the Raj - Charles Allen

An astonishing 50,000 camels converge on the tiny desert town of Pushkar, in India's state of Rajasthan, for the annual Pushkar Fair. It's a fascinating and peculiar sight, and a great opportunity to witness an old traditional style Indian festival.
The original intention behind the Pushkar Camel Fair was to attract local camel and cattle traders to do business during the holy Kartik Purnima festival, held in Pushkar around the full moon in the Hindu lunar month of Kartika. The fair has now also become a major tourist attraction.

India forms a natural sub-continent with the Himalayas to the north. The Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, which are sections of the Indian Ocean, lie to the west and east respectively.

The official language of India is Hindi written in the Devanagari script and spoken by some 30% of the population as a first language. Since 1965 English has been recognised as an 'associated language'. In addition there are 18 main and regional languages recognised for adoption as official state languages. There are another 24 languages, 720 dialects and 23 tribal languages.

India will sideswipe you with its size, clamour and diversity - especially if you enjoy delving into convoluted cosmologies and thrive on sensual overload. Nothing in the country is ever quite predictable; the only thing to expect is the unexpected, which comes in many forms and will always want to sit next to you.

The time difference for India is GMT/UTC +5.5hrs and the dialling code is +91. India has adopted metric weights and measures.