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 Few visitors who make
it as far as Jaisalmer pass up the opportunity to go on a camel trek, which
provides an irresistibly romantic chance to cross the barren sands on a sturdy
ship of the desert, sleeping under what must rank as one of the starriest skies
in the world. Sandstorms, sore backsides and camel farts aside, the safaris are
usually great fun.
Although you can travel for up to two weeks by camel from Jaisalmer to Bikaner,
treks normally last from one to four days, at prices varying from Rs200 to
Rs1500 per night. In general the less you spend the less you get, in terms of
food, blankets, fitness of camel, and so forth. A lot depends on whether the
guides are friendly, how big the group is, and what expectations you have.
Freelance camel owners, working for extremely low prices, may stop you in the
street and offer their services, but increased demand has resulted in high
prices and very poor service from some. All in all, you'll do better to go
through an established agency or hotel. We've mentioned a couple of reputable
operators, and you should also check with other travelers.
Make sure you'll be provided with an adequate supply of blankets, to sleep on
and under (it can get very cold at night); a quota of fruit if you're paying
anything over the average; and a campfire.
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As a precaution, have
the deal fixed on paper, giving the maximum size of the group, details of the
food you'll be getting, transport and anything else you've arranged. If you're
only going for a day, none of this applies, but wear a broad-brimmed hat and
take high-factor sun-protection lotion.
Following government restrictions on routes, most safaris head west of Jaisalmer
through places such as Sam sand dunes, Lodurva, Amar Sagar, Bada Bagh and
assorted small villages. Some visitors feel this puts too much emphasis on
sightseeing; it's possible to arrange a few days' amble through the desert
without stopping at any monuments. Taking a jeep at the start or end of the trek
enables you to go further in a short time, and some travellers prefer to begin
their trek at Khuhri. Longer treks to Pokaran, Jodhpur or Bikaner can also be
arranged. Firms running treks into restricted areas (see Around Jaisalmer)
should fix the necessary permits for you, but check in advance.
more...
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