India ~
Tribal Rajasthan
(15 days)
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The princely state of Rajasthan is an ancient land of sumptuous palaces, medieval mountain fortresses and desert landscapes that evoke a romantic past replete with bejeweled maharajas, tiger hunts and exotic bazaars. Here, travelers will discover the pink city of Jaipur, Udaipur’s island palaces and the delicately carved houses known as havelis in isolated Jaisalmer. While exploring intricate temples and winding alleys, one is likely to meet ashen Sadhu holy men, roving musicians, snake charmers, camel caravans and painted elephants; all simply a part of everyday life. This is a land of unparalleled color in a country known for its color.
While Rajasthan boasts many obvious wonders, Lost Frontiers now offers travelers the less known, but equally exotic world of the desert tribes and colorful castes with their distinctive living cultures. It is a fantasy world of turbaned tribesmen leading camels across the Thar Desert, of laughing women in swirling saris dancing and singing to drums around campfires. We will visit the Rabari camel traders and the nomadic Garasia who revere the cow, the devout Bishnoi who have strong beliefs in conservation and the Bhils who practice ancient witchcraft. Although nominally Hindu, these people fiercely maintain many traditional ways that date back to Rig Vedic 5000 years ago. Like many tribal societies, they venerate their dead ancestors, magic and the supernatural, snakes and tree spirits. While visiting these warm and hospitable people, Lost Frontiers will introduce you to their marvelous textiles, intricate crafts and their colorful festivities. Join us for an extraordinary experience with these fascinating people and their colorful traditions.
Itinerary
Day 01
Arrival and city tour of Old and New Delhi (Imperial Hotel).
Day 02
Fly to Jaisalmer, afternoon jeep safari to a Bhil tribal village of the area (Himmatgarh Palace).
Day 03
Tour this magnificent desert citadel.( Himmatgarh Palace).
Day 04
Drive to Jodhpur, afternoon jeep ride to villages of Bishnois. (Castle Hotel).
Day 05
Jhalmand- morning with the Rabari, afternoon the Muslim Mohils, famous for their pottery. (Castle Hotel).
Day 06
Drive to Kundal and Kakradi, the major settlements of the Rabari (camp).
Day 07
Drive to the Grassia settlement (camp).
Day 08
Drive to Kumbalgarh, visit the famous temples, afternoon walk to a small Bhil and Grassia village. (Hotel Aodhi).
Day 09
All day with the Grassia who practice traditional medicine. (Hotel Aodhi)
Day 10
Drive to Sita Mata sanctuary area, open air temple of the Meena and watch their ESP practices (camp/cottage).
Day 11
We devote all day to the Meena tribals (camp/cottage).
Day 12
Drive to Udaipur. (Haveli).
Day 13
City tour of Udaipur and Folklore Museum, tribal institute. (Haveli).
Day 14
Boat ride on Lake Pichola, afternoon flight to Delhi (Imperial Hotel).
Day 15
Return home.