Horse Safaris Q and A

We offer different horse safaris of varying lengths. While each ride takes its own particular path and has its own atmosphere, the trip essentials are common to all. Here we hope to answer all the questions you might have about joining us in India

Horses and tack
You will be riding on pure-bred Marwaris, which are different in nature and build to British horses. Each mount is chosen to suit riders from the 22 bred and stabled at Roop Niwas Palace. The traditional battle horse of Rajasthan, Marwaris are lean, strong and spirited, with tremendous stamina for long-distance endurance riding; they can cover many miles at a trot or slow canter, Their ears are crescent shaped and point inwards, giving them their distinctive appearance.

Average height 14-15hh, Marwaris are excellent weight carriers Three horses share one groom who tacks up, feeds, waters and brushes them each day; in the evening horses are encouraged to roll in the warm sand -an invigorating massage for tired joints.
We use the comfortable and strong Indian cavalry 'Sawar' saddles -as kind to the horse as to the rider.

Accommodation
The camp is luxurious and colourful spacious oriental Moghul-style tents in bright colours form a large circle around the camp fire, Each tent contains beds with firm, cotton-stuffed mattresses, white linen, quilts, blankets, pillows, mosquito nets -and hot water bottles for cold nights, The floor is fully covered in soft dhurri rugs; tents are lit with kerosene lamps.

Loo and bath tents are sentry box-type units with a covered roof and zips, The bath tents have wooden floors and hooks for clothes; the Loo tents contain a sturdy and comfortable commode over a pit. Hot water for baths is heated by fire morning and evening. Also provided is soap, towels; mirrors and a wash basin.

Meals
All food is freshly prepared in the kitchen tent by our excellent chef Mr. Ramesh Sharma. A variety of Indian dishes (part vegetarian) are cooked each night; western-style food is also available. The dining tent is furnished with table and chairs. Lunches are a cold buffet with plentiful fruit and water, laid out to greet the riders mid-trek.

Your riding ability
Much of the trail allows for some fast riding, therefore you should be a competent rider. If you feel unsure about your ability, please call us.

Your group
Each ride keeps a varied pace to accommodate the group's abilities. Maximum group size is 12 (unless customised for private groups, where it could be as small as 2), together with leader, flag bearer and one or more outriders depending on numbers.

A complementary holiday for the 8th person in a private group of 8 or more.

Non-riding partners
You will travel in a comfortable WW II-design Jeep, visiting places of cultural interest en route to the lunch spot. Eat and relax with the riders, then arrive early in camp with time to unwind or explore. Ideal for birdwatchers, artists and walkers. 20% discount on safari cost for non-riders.

The Rides
Our horse safaris explore the colourful heart of rural Rajasthan at a forward-going pace, riding through farmland, forest, semi-desert and mountain foothills. You might be more interested in architecture than wildlife; you may wish to stay in palaces rather than sleep in a tent. You might prefer a private ride to a group ride.

What to pack