Location: Rajasthan,
Ladakh, Delhi, Deccan.
Best Time: October to April is the best for horseback riding in
India as weather remains pleasant.
Horse Riding in India
Where are your horses, where the reins? How came ye? how had ye the
power?
Rein was on nose and seat on back.
The whip is laid upon the flank. The heroes stretch their thighs apart,
like women when the babe is born.
Above lies clearly define the significance of horses in Indian history. The
vehicle of the great rulers on the maiden tracks travelled miles for the
archaic heros to conquer places. Horse riding is not a new concept in India,
in fact it is as old as the kings who lived centuries ago. Then, it was a
necessity but now it is an adventure activity. And for those who are on
eco travel, it is eco-friendly mode of
commutation. Moreover, unlike jeeps and cars, these four legged animal can
take you to some of the inaccessible points as well.
But horse riding is not as simple as it sounds. Peace and patience are much
needed traits of a horse rider. Reasonably good experience and good control
over horse is required to move across the varied terrains. These riding
expeditions are undertaken for 4-6hrs at a stretch, with small breaks in
between for rest and food. Only a well mannered ride and good riding fitness
can ensure a perfect eco adventure so hire a horse for yourself and follow
all the tips that we have mentioned while we wish you happy riding.
Horse Riding and Eco-Tourism
Horse riding is a fine example of eco-tourism for it will take you to some
of the virgin and inaccessible spots without harming nature. Unlike Jeep
safaris, it is pollution free and does not defaces the natural tracks. While
on a eco-tour, it will not be appropriate to harm nature to enjoy a few fun
full days. Keeping this thing in mind, if you make an eco-tour, it can be
incredibly relaxing and joyous way of talking to the maiden winds and
unfolding some of the mysterious places that nature has harbored in its
heart for centuries. Following the off beaten tracks along the foothills of
world's largest mountain range, you can enjoy a perfect eco-adventure on a
horses back.
Trotting Trails in India
India is a famous as a heritage destination but very few people have idea
that it has come out as an adventure destination in which horse riding is a
priemier activity. Covering all major tourist destinations in India are
Horse Safari tours. You can travel along the folding hills and cross all
major rivers and valleys on a horse's back. These horse riding paths are not
only enthralling but also an eco-friendly way of maundering around. There
are few horse riding packages that we have mentioned here. You can also
choose one which seems germane.
Riding Along the Golden Sands
Rajasthan is a land of deserts but interestingly is never deserted. When it
comes to horsing,it beats away all other horsing destinations of India. The
famous horse that is used for horse riding trails in the dry-hot areas of
Rajasthan is Marwari which is a desert horse. The horses are charged by the
breed you ride. Marwari and Kathairai are the two breeds found here while
there are a few cross breeds. The horses here are slim and athletic.
Specially, for the foreign visitors, English. style sandals are used.
Within Rajasthan, there are a number of horse trailing destinations.
Different guided tours are available within Rajasthan to help visitors trot
around. Pushkar is one such place. The annual fare organized here is like a
Christmas carnival in India. So, if you are also attending to this carnival,
there is another option to take a trot around Aravalli Hills. Covering most
of Rajasthan, this ride will take you to some of the deepest core of the
golden city.
Starting from Dundlod, the safari offers an interesting sight seeing halt
at some of the oldest forts, Havelis or mansions of Rajasthan. Since this
safari travels through the villages, you can sooth your eyes with the
sceneries of village life and meet some of the local craftsmen. After
visiting all the heritage sights of Rajasthan, this safari ends at Jaipur.
The Marwari horse found here is best to trot around the golden sands of
Rajasthan.
Riding along the Mystique Mountains
If you are penchant about the hills, then there are a few horse riding
expeditions that can be undertaken at high altitudes of Himalayas. Romancing
with the snow, the Himalayan Mountains offer bewitching views. The best part
of horse riding tours here is the adventure you experience as the horse
rides along the narrow pathways at some of the highest peaks. Moreover, you
can make a stop at some of the magnificent surroundings. The spectacular
landscapes of Ladakh look breathtaking on a horse's back. There are few
maiden tracks, unblemished spots and variegated valleys that enslave
travellers with their majestic beauty.
There are other areas in the north which offer great horse riding
opportunities for the travellers. Although most of the wildlife sanctuaries
and national parks that are found in Northern Region of India offer horse
riding expeditions, you can find very good horsing tracks along the unbeaten
paths across central India.
Deccan Riding Trails
Travelling in Deccan on horseback is the best possible way to see the
countryside. Such a tour can take you through deserted forests, tribal
lands, rolling hills, rural villages and forested foothills. Eco-tourism
here is not restricted to mischievous mountains playing with the winds and
deep valleys, its about all that is a part of our circumambient. The
multifarious life that is found in India us worth exploring. Small
villages with no electricity, unexpectedly you see
a waterfall by your side and amazingly witching
birds that company you for some time during your journey; can one ask for
another reason for a trot! So, you can also trot around the green mountains
and enchanting landscapes to have a perfect horse riding expedition in
India.
Some Trotting Tips
There are a few horseback riding tips that we would recommend before you
begin with your tour. You must always read your map thoroughly and make any
necessary repairs, as regards the equipment, before you head out.
If you are new to riding, you must avoid riding alone. Otherwise as
well, if you have even a minor accident and you're alone, what started out
as a nice ride could end up being a serious or life threatening predicament.
Ensure that you wear hard-soled boots with a small heal.
Avoid boots with deep arches or large treads, they can cause your feet to
get caught in the stirrups. Head gear is a must. A cool pair of shades can
provide protection against ultraviolet rays, dust and dirt. A long-sleeved
shirt and long pants will give you a bit of protection from scrapes and
sunburn and it helps to keep the bugs from biting you.
Things to Bring
Horse riding is undoubtedly an adventure tour but this adventure can turn
into misery if you ignore some of the safety precautions. There are a few
things that you must never forget to carry with you whole on a horse riding
expedition. A safety helmet, good pair of boots, riding trousers, long
sleeved shirts, waterproof warm jumper and water bottle are little things
that you must carry.
Basic Facts
A good horse rider is one who knows his horses well. Different kinds of
horse riding trails use different kinds of horses. The multifarious terrain
of India houses a variety of this mammalian species. Different kinds of
terrains need different kinds of horses. Choosing upon an appropriate horse
in a particular horse riding destination is a much asset. Talk to local
guide and he'll help you choose a better horse for yourself.
