In the Who Rides in India section we hear from riders who have journeyed to India to ride the native breeds on a horse riding holiday.
Margo rode with Dundlod Safariโs on the Desert Ride to Alsisar, a horse riding holiday in Rajasthan. This was a five day horse trek from Dundlod to the resplendent Alsisar Mahal Heritage Hotel.
Describe your riding background, Margo
I was 16 when I first started riding after buying a horse while living on a farm just outside of Adelaide, South Australia. I took a few group riding lessons but mostly learned by trial and error, and there were a lot of errors. My horse and I later moved to Renner Springs, a whistle-stop roadhouse in the Northern Territory, and took lots of long bush rides, helping with cattle roundups and taking part in barrel races at local rodeos.
Some years later, I moved to Alice Springs in central Australia but my horse was stolen from his stable. That ended my regular riding routine for about three decades, until I resumed in Bangkok about seven years ago. I now ride at least once every day the stable’s open, with a focus on flat work.
Why did you choose to ride in India?
I’ve admired Marwari’s since I lived (and rode) in India some years ago, was aware of the work the Indigenous Horse Society was doing to preserve and promote the breed. It seemed like a good opportunity to tick off my bucket list and support such a good cause.
How was your experience riding the Marwari breed of horse?
Marwari’s are a great horse to ride. They’re incredibly responsive and forward going, and have a wonderful temperament, too.
How would you describe riding in rural Rajasthan with Dundlod Safaris?
Spectacular. Not only was the riding thrilling, the accommodation in heritage hotels and desert camps was beyond my expectations. Breakfasts, lunch stops and evenings around the campfire were fantastic. Bonnie and his team really deliver a memorable experience.
What sets a horse riding holiday on Marwari’s in Rajasthan apart from other destinations?
India’s cultural tapestry is unique, and the Marwari safari rides take you on a journey that you couldn’t possibly replicate by road.
Along with the opportunity to see wildlife that I never spotted during four-years living in India, the Marwari’s calm countenance means you don’t have to worry about your horse freaking out at anything.
What advice would you give a rider who is keen to come to India to ride the Marwari’s?
Take sunblock, lip balm and insect repellant. A seat saver is a must: the infantry saddles are harsh. A head torch is ideal, and a GoPro with a wrist mount allows you to capture photos without hassle. Pack light-weight, long-sleeved and quick-drying tops, and a warm vest for winter. A peaked cap with face cover will protect from sun and wind as well as the dust churned up by horses in front of you. Stylish evening wear for the heritage hotels will help make you feel like a luxury traveler even though you’re not.
Margo writes an equestrian blog about her riding experiences. You can read more about her ride with Dundlod Safari’s here.
