Riding in Rajasthan, India

Wild and Exotic Pushkar Fair itinerary (Second half)

Day 1:  On arrival into Delhi you will be met and transferred by road to Samode Bagh, a journey of approximately 3 ½ hours. Samode Bagh was built 150 years ago by a son of the illustrious Pritviraj Singh Ji of Amber. The Bagh is modeled on the geometric style of a Mughal garden where members of the Samode Royal family came to enjoy rare moments of privacy. Samode Bagh is a garden paradise situated 4 km from Samode village, nestled on 20 acres of beautiful grounds combines warmth and luxury, an atmosphere that is quiet, relaxed & elegant. It is a romantic hideaway where you can be as active or contemplative as you wish. Samode Bagh offers a unique experience of a tented camp where the dune-coloured tents are luxuriously furnished with every comfort. They are tents with a difference- spacious, with carpeted floors, electric lights and heating, each with their own en suite marble bathrooms with showers, hot and cold water, an attached dressing room and a front private porch. The inner fabric used is specially designed and printed with floral motifs in warm earthy colours. The ceiling is of muslin with a pattern printed in gold creating an ambience of gracious living. The garden is about three blocks long and is enclosed by a 15-foot high stone wall. The tented camp brings visitors closer to the soul of the country. A 200 feet long row of fountains fed from natural springs and wells are displayed all along the garden. Victorian and traditional Rajasthani décor echo life in a 16th century luxury camp. Relive the splendour of the bygone age recreated in a tented encampment- unique experience in royal living.

On arrival at Samode Bagh you can relax and swim before being joined by riders from the first half of the Pushkar fair ride. This evening you will visit the Samode Palace before returning to Samode Bagh for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: After an early breakfast, you will be driven to Amber (about one and a half hours) just outside Jaipur. On arrival in Amber you will climb up to the Amber Fort on Elephants. The Amber Fort lies 12 kilometres from Jaipur. The city of Amber with an ancient imposing fort cum Palace overlooks a lake at the entrance to a rocky mountain grove. Built in the 17th century, the palace is a distinguished specimen of Rajput architecture. The Jai Mandir (hall of victory) is so delicately ornamented with fine inlay work that it appears to glow. The fort of Jaigarh, crowning the summit of a peak is of amazing beauty and grandeur. After visiting the Amber Fort, drive into Jaipur (20 minutes) and transfer to Hotel Rajputana Palace Sheraton. After lunch you will have the opportunity to visit Jaipur, and spend the afternoon sightseeing.

The rose-pink capital of Rajasthan is surrounded on all sides by rugged hills, and crowned with forts. Enclosed by embattled walls, the city was built early in the eighteenth century. The Maharaja's palace stands in the centre of the city amidst lovely gardens. Houses with latticed windows line the streets, their rose-pink colour lending enchantment to the scene and almost magical at sunset. Jaipur is aptly called the Pink City of India. It takes its name from the famous Maharana Sawai Jai Singh, who founded the city in 1728. A keen astronomer, he built an observatory which still exists and is equipped with quaint masonry instruments of remarkable size. 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 muslins.

Sightseeing opportunities include The City Palace which now houses a museum containing rare manuscripts, painting 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 Jaipur at the Rajputana Palace Sheraton.

Day 3: This morning you will have the chance to visit the Amber Fort. After an early lunch, you will be driven to Pushkar, a journey of about three hours. On arrival in Pushkar you will be transferred to Pushkar Resorts, where you will be spending the next two nights. The Pushkar resorts is a luxurious oasis, in the desert. The origin of Pushkar is lost in 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 November). And on its banks, a mammoth 200000 people and some 50000 cattle become a part of the annual Pushkar fair. The fair offers a matchless opportunity to trade in cattle and leather goods. Womenfolk shop for bangles, clothes, utensils and sundry household items. The most dramatic events of the festivities are the cattle auction and the camel race. Sports involving the camel - the friend of the desert folk of Rajasthan are a legion. Equally diverting are the gaily-dressed rural folk. Whatever there is to see at the fair, you will be caught up in the excitement, gaity and sense of competition that fills the air at Pushkar fair.

Day 4: You are free to spend the day visiting Pushkar Fair.

Day 5: After an early breakfast, you will be driven to Rohet, a journey of about five hours. You will arrive in time for lunch, and will be transferred to Hotel Rohetgarh. Overnight in Rohetgarh.This is the 16^th Century fortified desert home (now a hotel) of the descendents of the Rathore clan. It is like an oasis in the Desert. Sprawling landscaped gardens complete with wild peacocks and a beautifully designed swimming pool with four charming pavilions at each corner where musicians perform in the evening as dinner is served by the poolside. This is a recognised Heritage Hotel and unlike many other hotels of its kind, Rohetgarh was never abandoned and has housed the present family for over 300 years.

Day 6: Today you will meet your horses, and get to try them out, by riding in and around Rohet, and to the nearby villages inhabited by farmers and the "Bishnoi" people who are great environmentalists and protect the wild animals and other gifts of nature. Besides riding on a good terrain you get to visit the homes of the villagers and see the life style of these people. The area boasts of good wildlife including the Blackbuck and Nilgai Antelopes and the Chinkara Gazelle as well as a variety of bird life.

Day 7: After an early breakfast, you will ride from Rohet to Sardar Samand. The journey is about 26 kilometres and will take approximately five hours. The ride passes through several villages and farm lands and through acacia bush. This day's ride is done in one stretch and we arrive at Sardar Samand in time for lunch. You are free in the afternoon to relax and enjoy the wonderful swimming pool, and fabulous birdlife in the grounds of the Palace. Saradar Samand Palace is a superb art deco hunting lodge built by Maharaja Umaid Singh of Jodhpur in 1933 and it still retains the original fittings. The resort offers the most spectacular views overlooking a large lake teeming with bird life. Overnight in Sardar Samand Palace

Day 8: After an early breakfast, you will ride from Sardar Samand to Sodawas, a distance of 46 kilometres. Overnight in Hotel Karni Kot in Sodawas. This days ride is long and takes about 7 Hours but is interesting and passes through several villages and farm land. The landscape changes dramatically after lunch and you get to see hills and lakes. The hotel in Sodawas was built in 1945 and used to be the home of the local chieftain. It was also used as "court" where the chief used to settle the disputes - but now has been converted into a hotel and is being run by the descendents of the local chief. This property also has beautifully designed stables.

Day 9: Ride from Sodawas to Kotri (about 40 Kms). Today's ride takes about six hours. You will notice a dramatic change in the landscape from this day onwards - besides passing through several villages, you see many more hills, including the Aravali range of Hills - which you would be climbing when going to Kumbhalgarh.

The Rawla Kotri is the private house of the local chief and is more than three hundred years old and has a great deal of charm. It is situated in the midst of the Kotri Village which is a small, interesting village inhabited by farmers and artisans. This is where we stay for two nights - being cared and looked after by the family.

Day 10: Today you ride from Kotri to Ranakpur. The journey takes between four and five hours, and you will cover a distance of about 26 kilometres. Ranakpur is situated in the peaceful valley of the Aravali range of hills. Ranakpur is famous for its huge but beautiful 14/15^th century Jain Temples, constructed of white marble. The Ranakpur temple complex is the biggest in India having 29 halls and 1444 pillars each of which are intricately carved. Todays ride is also finished by lunch time so that you can visit the famous 14th Century Jain Temples - which are often considered equal to the Taj Mahal in beauty. Overnight in the "Maharani Bagh Orchard Retreat" - a lovely property comprising of cottages built by the Maharaja of Jodhpur in the midst of an orchard.

Day 11: Today you will ride from Ranakpur to Kumbhalgarh (about 20 Kms) through the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary in the Aravali Hills. Riding time today is about five hours. The ride after lunch is quite slow as you have to climb about 2000 feet through a beautiful forest. If lucky, you might come across a leopard or a sloth bear. Overnight in Kumbhalgarh at the Aodhi Hotel, situated in the Aravali hills. The hotel, belonging to the Maharana of Udaipur has also got a small stable of twelve horses. Guests are sure to enjoy the swimming pool there. The well appointed rooms allow the visitors an uninterrupted view of the countryside. Kumbhalgargh is also known as the "eye of Mewar" and lies atop the Aravali range of hills at a height of about 3500 feet. The seat of the world's oldest dynasty, it holds the distinction of being unconquered. The Kumbhalgarh fort was built in the 15^th Century by a Rajput ruler, Maharana Kumbha of Mewar. The fort has structurally been an unassailable destination - guarded by several iron gates and walls that were impossible to scale. The fort is famous for its parapets having a parameter of 36 Kilometres around the fort and wide enough to hold eight horses. It is like a mini great wall of China. Within the Fort are more than 350 temples spread over the entire area. The scenic surroundings are spellbinding.

Day 12: After breakfast you will be driven to Udaipur, which takes about three hours. On arrival at Udaipur you will be transferred to your hotel (Shiv Niwas Palace or similar). You will be able to spend the afternoon visiting the City Palace, and taking a boat ride in Lake Pichola.

Udaipur is set amidst the verdant Aravali hills of southern Rajasthan. It is a serene and beautiful city. In dramatic contrast to the battle-scarred, desert-bound fortress towns of Rajasthan, it presents an enchanting picture of white marble palaces, placid blue lakes, and a girdle of green hills that keep the wilderness at bay. Udaipur, also known as the city of lakes, was founded by Maharana Udai Singh after he was overcome by the misfortunes that his old capital of Chittorgarh had to face. Repeatedly ransacked by the Mughal armies, the Chittorgarh Fort (120 Kms from Udaipur) saw some very fierce battles. In 1567, the army of Emperor Akbar ransacked the fort and forced Maharana Udai Singh to seek refuge in the surrounding Aravali hills. Udai Singh then, on the advice of a holy man, set about building the new city of Udaipur.

The City Palace is a work of art and has many carved balconies, arches and decorated pillars. Located inside are the Suraj Jharokha or the Sun Balcony, Badal Mahal, Sheesh Mahal (Mahal means Palace), Bheem Vilas and the peacock courtyard. The Zenana Mahal, Fateh Prakash, Durbar Hall and the City Palace Museum are other places of interest. Close to the City Palace is the Jagdish Temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath. It has imposing sculpted figures and heavily ornamented interiors. At a short distance is the Sahelion ki Bari (the Garden of Maidens) which has four pools and delicately carved kiosks and elephants in white marble.

Day 13: This morning you will be transferred to the airport in time for your scheduled flight leaving for Delhi. Arrive Delhi and transfer to International Airport for International Departures or to the Hotel where there will be two rooms for wash and change before leaving for the International Airport for flights for abroad (if your flight is much later).

Notes:

The cost of this ride is based on two people sharing accommodation. It includes all accommodation on bed and breakfast basis except on the ride and at Pushkar, where it is on full board. It excludes international airfares, domestic airfares between Delhi and Jaipur and also between Udaipur and Delhi, and monument entrance fees in Delhi, visas, gratuities and items of a personal nature. For those not prepared to share accommodation a single supplement of is applicable.

Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic's terms and conditions, a copy of which will be enclosed with your booking form.

Wild and Exotic Indian forts and palaces ride with Diwali Festival and Pushkar Fair 

This riding adventure incorporates a cultural tour of Rajasthan, a beautiful Indian state rich in history and intrigue. The ride presents the perfect opportunity to visit the forts and palaces for which Rajasthan is famous, together with an exploration of the surrounding countryside. The itinerary also includes a visit to the celebrated and colourful Pushkar Fair, which takes place each year in October and November.

Day 1: British Airways flight BA0247 departs London Heathrow at 15:15hrs.

Day 2: On arrival of British Airways flight BA0247 into Delhi at 04:55hrs you will be met and transferred to Hotel Vasant Continental or similar. (Rooms will be available from 12 noon). The afternoon will be spent on a half day sightseeing tour of Delhi.

The old city of Delhi, which was built by Shah Jehan in the 17th century, stands today as the epitome of the whole history of Indo- Islamic architecture. New Delhi was designed and constructed by the Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker families and is a mixture of east and west. The public buildings in red sandstone are in the Moghul style. It has a circular Parliament House and an imposing Central Secretariat in two blocks which stand at the approaches to Rashtrapati Bhawan, the residence of the President of India. Delhi is today the political, economic and cultural capital of the World's largest democracy and has also become one of the greatest tourist centres of the World.

In New Delhi you can visit Humayun's Tomb aptly called the predecessor of the Taj Mahal,  drive past Safdarjung's Tomb, the Qutab Minar, which is 72 meters high and is one of the perfect towers of the Persian World. Nearby, amidst the ruins of the Quwut - ul - Islam Mosque stands the Iron pillar which has withstood the vagaries of the weather and has not rusted over in 1500 years. An orientation drive through New Delhi would include the Embassy area, Government Buildings and Birla temple. Drive past Jantar- Mantar Astronomical observatory and through Connaught Place, New Delhi's main shopping centre.  Overnight: in Delhi.

Day 3: Today will be spent in Delhi.

Day 4: After an early breakfast, you will be driven to Dundlod (duration six to seven hours). On arrival at Dundlod you will be transferred to the Dundlod Fort where you will stay for two nights.

Dunlod Fort is in the heart of the Shekhawati and was built in 1750. This majestic fort surrounded by a moat is a mix of Mogul and Rajputana architecture. The majestic Diwan Khana (the Audience Hall) is furnished with Louis XIV furniture. This old building has been beautifully maintained and modernised to afford maximum comfort.  It has a huge and impressive banquet hall with each bedroom arranged differently with its own character and charm.  The Fort is located on the edge of a small village of the same name. Today is the date of one of the most important festivals in India called the Diwali and you will be here to witness this grand festival: Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is held and celebrated every year in honour of Lord Rama's return to his capital Ayodhya after an exile of fourteen years. Lord Rama is one of the Indian gods; he is the hero of the Ramayana and a reincarnate of Lord Vishnu. Thousands of years have elapsed, and yet so ideal was the kingdom of Rama that it is remembered to this day. Consequently, to commemorate the return of Ram, Sita and Lakshman to Ayodhya, people celebrate Diwali by letting off fire crackers and by lighting up their houses with earthen diyas (lamps) or other lamps in the grandest style, year after year. On the day of Diwali prayers are offered to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed God and to Goddess Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth. It is believed that the Goddess of wealth will grace your home or business on this day. It is well worth taking a walk in the market areas as the shops are beautifully decorated and crowded with people in lovely dresses and costumes.  At night, the whole town is lit up with earthen oil lamps and candles and the explosion of fire works reverberate within the other sounds of celebration.  Overnight: at Dundlod Fort.

Day 5: Today will be spent in Dundlod and you can try out the horses riding in and around Dundlod. In the afternoon, after a short ride around Dundlod, visit one of the best Marwari Horse breeding farm and stables in the country.  Overnight: at Dundlod Fort.

Day 6: Today you will ride to Mandawa (a distance of approximately 22 kilometres) passing through several villages, farmers' dwellings and farmlands. The terrain is soft and sandy and very good for riding. On arrival at Mandawa you will be transferred to the hotel Castle Mandawa, a remote feudal principality in the centre of the Shekhawati region, which was a trading outpost for the ancient caravan routes that stopped here from China and the Middle East. The Rajput ruler of Mandawa, Thakur Nawal Singh, built a fort in 1755 to protect this outpost. The township that grew around the fort soon attracted a large community of traders who settled here. When the caravan traffic ceased in the late 18th Century, the traders created business empires in other parts of the country, but returned to Mandawa to build palatial mansions in their home town. Like many historic homes, Castle Mandawa is a curious mixture of the old and the new. Medieval turreted towers and planquin- roofed balconies blend with modern comforts in period rooms. Family portraits, antique cannons and arms add to the charm of this family- run resort where tradition still runs strong. Even time is measured by a different clock....a huge brass gong is struck by the resident timekeepers at the fort every hour!  Overnight: at Castle Mandawa.

Day 7: Today you will ride to Nawalgargh (approximately 25 kilometres). On arrival into Nawalgargh you will be transferred to the Roop Niwas Palace.  Later that day, you will visit the frescoed havelis. Dundlod, Mandawa and Nawalgarh are a part of the Shekhawati region which is known as Rajasthan's open air Art Gallery.  No other region in India or even perhaps, in the world, has such a large concentration of high quality frescoes as the region of Shekhawati.  Before its development, this semi-arid region had only its blank monochromatic palette to offer.  No school of painting thrived until history and circumstances took up this colourless page and made it blossom with art for almost two centuries: from 1750 to 1930.  The town of Nawalgarh was founded in 1737 A.D. and exudes an old charm with its colourful bazaar having the largest number of painted Havelies in the Shekhawati region.  The various havelies are covered with frescoes depicting the whole gamut of social and religious life where history is painted with a sense of humour.  Overnight: at the Grand Haveli.

Day 8: Today is a ride to Bhairon Ji Temple (a distance of about 38 kilometres), passing through several villages and past farmers' dwellings. Today, the landscape changes dramatically as the ride takes you close to the great Aravali range of hills. After lunch, the ride for some of the time is through farm lands and it then follows a dry river bed running parallel to the Aravali hills.  Overnight: in a tented camp near a small temple.

Day 9: Today you will ride to Bajore.  The ride takes you through varied terrain consisting of flat lands and sand dunes, and passes through quaint villages and farmland. After lunch you will be transferred to view a large salt water lake with the local hills providing an attractive backdrop. Overnight: in tented camp near Kochor village.

Day 10: Today you will ride to Danta (a distance of approximately 20 kilometres).  Today's ride is a short one that takes you along a huge lake and across a  spectacular landscape of sand dunes, hills and farmlands, through several villages and past a few ancient forts until you reach Danta Fort. The ancient village of Danta is surrounded by two fortresses on top of a hill one of which is now a hotel called the Dera Danta Fort.  Overnight: in Dera Danta Fort.              

Day 11: After an early breakfast, you will bid good bye to your horses and grooms and you will be transferred by road to Pushkar ( a journey of approximately  four hours).  On arrival into Pushkar you will be transferred to the Pushkar Resort or similar hotel.

After lunch, you will visit the Pushkar Fair which at this time, will be at its peak, showing a wide variety and number of various animals and livestock. Excitement, gaiety and a keen sense of competition fill the air as the long journey to Pushkar begins. Spirited columns of people with camels, horses, bullock-carts, cars and jeeps head for Pushkar soon after the festival of Diwali. The origin of the Pushkar Fair is lost in 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. On this evening, the date of the full moon in November, the faithful bathe in the holy waters of the Pushkar Lake on Kartik Poornima.  On its banks, a stupendous throng of  200,000 people and some 50,000 cattle become a part of the annual Pushkar fair. A city of Pilgrimage from time immemorial with over 500 temples and 52 bathing ghats (steps leading into a  river or lake which are linked to the lunar calendar), enclose the lake. Each ghat has its own miraculous qualities and powers of healing.  Pushkar begets a legacy of timeless architectural heritage and radiates an ambience of peace and spirituality that casts a lure to visit again and again. The fair offers a matchless opportunity to trade in cattle and leather goods.  Womenfolk shop for bangles, clothes, utensils and sundry household items.  The most dramatic events of the festivities are the cattle auction and the camel race. Sports involving the camel - the friend of the desert folk of Rajasthan are legion,   equally diverting are the gaily dressed rural folk. Overnight Pushkar Resort.

Day 12:  Today you will have a  full day in Pushkar visiting the fair and town. Overnight Pushkar Resort.

Day 13: After breakfast, you will be transferred by road to Jaipur (about 3 hours drive). On arrival at Jaipur, you will be transferred to the Hotel Narain Niwas Palace. The afternoon will be spent sightseeing in Jaipur.  

The rose-pink capital of Rajasthan is surrounded on all sides by rugged hills, crowned with forts. Enclosed by embattled walls, the city was built early in the eighteenth century. The Maharaja's palace stands in the centre of the city amidst lovely gardens. Houses with latticed windows line the streets, their rose-pink colour lending enchantment to the scene and appearing almost magical at sunset. Jaipur is aptly called the "Pink City of India". It takes its name from the famous Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, who founded the city in 1728. A keen astronomer, he built an observatory which still exists and is equipped with quaint masonry instruments of remarkable size.  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 printing on muslin.

You will have the opportunity to visit the City Palace which now 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: at the Alsiar Haveli or similar in Jaipur.

Day 14:  The morning will be spent sightseeing at the Amber Fort. Twelve kilometres from Jaipur, lies the city of Amber with an ancient imposing fort/palace overlooking the lake at the entrance to a rocky mountain grove. Built in the 17th century, the palace is a distinguished specimen of Rajput architecture, the Jai Mandir (hall of victory) is so delicately ornamented with fine inlay work that it glows. The fort of Jaigarh crowning the summit of a peak is of amazing beauty and grandeur. In the afternoon you will be at leisure to rest, shop or do more sightseeing. Overnight: in Jaipur.

Day 15: After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to the city of Agra visiting Fatehpur Sikri on the way. The deserted city of Emperor Akbar literally means "The City of Victory". The audience halls, palaces, and mosques are still in a state of unaltered perfection as are the tombs of Shiekh Salim Chisti, Panchmahal and the Buland Darwaza. On arrival at Agra, you will be transferred to the Hotel Jaypee Palace. 

This afternoon is devoted to sightseeing at Agra, the Agra Fort and the city.  Just over 200 kilometres from Delhi and lying on the river Yamuna, Agra is famous the World over as the "City of the Taj". The fort, built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of courtyards, mosques and private chambers of the fort, echo the story of the Mughal Empire. Moti Masjid, Jasmine Tower and Itmad-ud-Daulah reflect the skills of the ancient Indian architects and artists.  Overnight: Jaypee Palace in Agra.

Day 16: This morning you will visit the Taj Mahal and Sikandra.  One of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal built by Emperor Shah Jehan in memory of his beloved consort Mumtaz Mahal, is a beautiful mausoleum of pure white marble and an architectural marvel. The Taj by moonlight is a breath-taking sight. Sikandra is the tomb of Akbar the Great, built in red sandstone inlaid with marble and is a striking sight. After lunch, you will be driven to Delhi (a drive of about four to five hours) and transferred to the Vasant Continental hotel or similar near the International airport. Two rooms will be made available for washing and changing. After dinner, you will be transferred to the international airport in time for your international flight home, which departs Delhi very early the next morning.

Day 17: British Airways flight BA0142 departs Delhi at 03:30hrs and arrives into London Heathrow at 07:15hrs.

Notes:

The price of this ride is based on two people sharing accommodation and providing at least 8 people participate on the ride. A single supplement may occur for those not prepared to share accommodation.

The cost includes all accommodation as described in the itinerary or similar on full board basis except in Delhi, Jaipur and Agra where it will be on bed and breakfast basis, all transfers by and sightseeing by non AC car/coach, all riding arrangements, English or French speaking guide in the cities, monument entrance fees in Jaipur and for one visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra and Fatehpursikri. The cost also includes one bottle of water per day during the ride. The cost includes all luxury taxes/VAT and also 4.98 % service tax payable to the Government.

The cost does not include lunches/dinners in Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, camera fees if any and monument entrances fees in Agra ( except for one visit to the Taj Mahal ) and items of personal nature such as visa costs, fees, tips, laundry, drinks.

The cost of the international airfares as per the itinerary is from £175 plus taxes per person and are subject to availability.

Please note that it is the responsibility of the client to ensure they obtain the correct visa prior to travel. Wild and Exotic will assist with visa applications if instructed but cannot be held responsible for a client's failure to obtain a visa for whatever reason. A valid visa is required for this holiday and information regarding visa applications to India can be obtained by visiting the following websitehttp://www.hcilondon.net/

The contact details of our ground handlers in India for the purpose of your visa application are:

Arun Deo Sanger 
112-B, AASHIRWAD COMPLEX,
D -1 ( K -84 ), GREEN PARK (MAIN),
NEW DELHI - 110 016
Phones: +91 - 11- 26534450
Telefax: +91-11- 26534339

Mr Vipin Khattar
C-16, SHYAM NAGAR,
New Delhi - 110018
Phone (+91) 11 25925277
Mobile (+91) 9810587135

Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic's terms and conditions, a copy of which is enclosed with your booking form.

Wild and Exotic Christmas Ride itinerary

Day 1: Upon arrival into New Delhi you will be collected from your international flight and transferred to the Imperial hotel or similar for an overnight stay.

Day 2: This morning you will be collected from Delhi and transferred by vehicle to the Dundlod Castle for lunch and an overnight stay. The majestic Dundlod Fort, in the heart of the Shekhawati, was built in 1750 and is a mix of Mogul and Rajputana architecture. The Fort is surrounded by a moat, and has been beautifully maintained and is equipped will all the modern comforts. There is an impressive banqueting hall and each of the bedrooms exudes their own unique charm. The stunning Diwan Khana (the Audience Hall) is furnished with Louis XIV furniture.

Day 3: Today you will meet your horses and ride around Dundlod to explore the various villages and temples. In the evening, there is opportunity for another ride around the surrounding area. The terrain around this semi-desert area is being soft and sandy and is therefore ideal for riding with plenty of opportunities for some good canters. Tonight you will stay overnight at Dundlod Castle.

Day 4: This morning you will begin the ride to Mandawa, which is approximately 22kms away. The ride passes through villages and farmland and is speckled with the beautiful Khejri trees. The terrain is quite flat except for the occasional sand dunes. You will arrive into Mandawa towards the end of the day and ride into the imposing Mandawa Castle where you will be staying overnight.

Day 5: This morning you will ride 25kms to Nawalgargh, to visit the frescoed havelis. The town of Nawalgarh, which was founded in 1737 A.D, exudes an old charm having the largest number of painted Havelies in the Shekhawati region. The various Havelies are depicting the whole gamut of social and religious life and where history is painted with humour. Dundlod and Nawalgarh are a part of the Shekhawati region which is Rajasthan's open air Art Gallery. This evening there will be a special Christmas dinner and celebrations at the Grand Haveli hotel.

Day 6: Ride to Bhairon Ji Temple (about 38 kms), passing through several villages and farmers dwellings. The landscape changes dramatically on this day as it takes you close to the great Aravali range of hills. After lunch, ride for some time through farm lands, and then follow a dry river bed running parallel to the Aravali hills. Camp overnight in tents near a small temple.

Day 7: Ride to Kochor (about 25 kms). After riding through a varied terrain consisting of flat land and sand dunes, you will pass through quaint villages and farmland. After lunch you will see a vast salt water lake with a backdrop of rolling hills. Tonight you will stay overnight in a tented camp near Kochor village.

Day 8: Today you will ride to Danta (about 20 Kms). Today's ride is a short one - you ride alongside a huge lake and across a spectacular landscape of sand dunes, hills and farmlands - cross several villages and see a couple of old forts till you reach Danta Fort in time for lunch. The village of Danta, is surrounded by two fortresses on top of a hill. One of the fortresses is now a hotel, the Dera Danta Kila, where you will be spending tonight.

Day 9: Ride from Danta to Kuchaman (about 38 kms). Early morning ride from Danta to Kuchaman through one of the most spectacular areas of Rajasthan. This day ride is one of the best of the riding days. You ride across spectacular scenery comprising of beautiful villages, farmlands, hills and large sand dunes. As you get close to Kuchaman, you can see the towering fort of Kuchaman perched high up on a hill. The Kuchaman Fort is one of the most spectacular and luxurious Fort hotels of Rajasthan. The Kuchaman Fort was built between 450 to 750 A.D to control the ancient trade route from Central Asia. As you progress along winding and undulating mountain roads, toward this magnificent fort, you travel back in time. At the Kuchaman Fort you discover tales of courage and valour woven into the fabric of its formidable ramparts. Overnight in Kuchaman Fort.

Day 10: Ride from Kuchaman to Nawa (about 25 kms). The ride on this day takes you across the salt flats of Kuchaman, then a beautiful valley in the Aravali hills dotted with small villages and temples and on to the great Sambhar Lake (which is the largest salt water lake in India). Along the salt flats there is opportunity for a canter. After arriving in Nawa you will camp this evening near the salt flats.

Day 11: Ride from Nawa to Roopangarh (about 25 Kms). The ride to Roopangarh passes through beautiful countryside along the Aravali hills. Arrive Roopangarh and stay at the Roopangarh Fort - built in 1653 AD by Maharajah Roop Singh, the fifth ruler of Kishangarh. which is a 17^th century battle fort - now converted into a hotel. In Located 125 kms from Jaipur, it became the capital of Kishangarh for the next hundred years. It has invincible ramparts and several underground passages and ateliers of the artists. The fort is situated on a mound and was originally made up of nine turreted fortifications. The serpentine entrance which guarded against a frontal attack leads to a splendid medieval Durbar hall beyond which can be seen some of the finest examples of the famed Kishangarh miniature paintings. The miniatures of Kishangarh have acquired worldwide acclaim. Besides paintings, the rulers also encouraged and patronised music and poetry.  

Day 12: After an early breakfast, you will be transferred by vehicle to Jaipur (approximately three hours away). Upon arriving in Jaipur you will be transferred to Hotel Raj Palace for an overnight stay. In the afternoon there is opportunity for sightseeing in Jaipur. Jaipur is the rose-pink capital of Rajasthan, is surrounded on all sides by rugged hills, crowned with forts. Enclosed by embattled walls, the city was built early in the eighteenth century. The Maharaja's palace stands in the centre of the city amidst lovely gardens. Houses with latticed windows line the streets, their rose-pink colour lending enchantment to the scene and almost magical at sunset. Jaipur is aptly called the "Pink City of India". It takes its name from the famous Maharana Sawai Jai Singh, who founded the city in 1728. A keen astronomer, he built an observatory which still exists and is equipped with quaint masonry instruments of remarkable size. 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. The City Palace which now houses a museum containing rare manuscripts, painting 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.

Day 13: This morning there is opportunity for sightseeing in Amber. Amber Fort, 12km away from Jaipur, lies the city of Amber with an ancient imposing fort cum Palace overlooking the lake at the entrance to a rocky mountain grove. Built in the 17th century, the palace is a distinguished specimen of of Rajput architecture. The Jai Mandir (hall of victory) is so delicately ornamented with fine inlay work that it glows. The fort of Jaigarh, crowning the summit of a peak is of amazing beauty and grandeur. This afternoon you will be transferred to Jaipur Airport in time for flight for Delhi. Upon arrival into Delhi you will be transferred to the Imperial hotel.

Day 14: This morning you will be transferred from Hotel Imperial to the international airport in time for the flight home. (Rooms will be available till 12 Noon of January 3).

Notes:

The cost of this ride is based on two people sharing accommodation. It includes all accommodation on bed and breakfast basis except on the ride and at Pushkar, where it is on full board. It excludes international airfares, domestic airfares between Delhi and Jaipur and also between Udaipur and Delhi, and monument entrance fees in Delhi, visas, gratuities and items of a personal nature. For those not prepared to share accommodation a single supplement is applicable.

Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic's terms and conditions, a copy of which will be enclosed with your booking form.