RAJASTHAN’S NAGAUR FAIR

British Summer Time has ended and only short winter days and frosty mornings are on the UK’s itinerary for the foreseeable future. However, before hibernation and the January sales set in, head for some winter sun in the princely state of Rajasthan for an alternative ‘sale’ at the region’s famous Nagaur Fair. Ride beautiful Marwari horses through the Thar Desert, visit the spectacular sights of Delhi, Jaisalmer, Jaipur and Jodhpur, stay in luxury desert camps, forts and palaces along the way and perhaps bid for a beast! Equine Adventures still has availability on its 16-day Nagaur Fair Ride, departing Delhi 23rd January 2009.

Nagaur Fair is one of the largest cattle fairs in the country, held annually between late January and early February – depending on the full moon. Situated half way between Bikaner and Jodphur, the quaint town of Nagaur fills with throngs of cattle, horses and camels, accompanied by their colourfully turbaned owners. There is earnest bargaining between owners and buyers, and plenty of fun and festivity including a tug-of-war, camel races and performances by folk musicians and dancers. The Mirchi Bazaar (Red Chilli Market) is one of the main attractions, with local crafts, cloth and jewellery for sale.
The tour starts with an initial night in Delhi, before travellers take a sleeper train to Bikaner from where the horseback safari commences. 5-nights are spent exploring remote regions of the Thar Desert on locally bred Marwari horses – notable for their characteristic inward-curling ears. Descendants of the splendid war horses that served the ruling families and warriors of feudal India, mounts come from stables at Dundlod Castle, home of Kanwar Raghuvendra Singh, AKA Bonnie, the ride’s host. A full day is spent at Nagaur Fair, enjoying the festivities on foot and horseback. Other highlights include visits to the 12th century desert stronghold of Jaisalmer, the ‘Blue City’ of Jodhpur (home of the riding breeches!) and the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur. Accommodation varies from impressive forts and palaces, once the private residences of Rajput rulers, to nights spent in luxury safari-style tented camps, fully furnished and carpeted, in the Thar Desert.

The holiday costs £2,805 p/p (ride only) including transfers, hotel and deluxe-tented accommodation, most meals, horse, tack and expertly guided activities.


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