In November 2015 I joined our Pushkar Forts and Palaces Ride, with an extension to the cattle & horse fair at Bateshwar. This was my first long-haul flight and I was slightly nervous about travelling alone in India. As soon as I was met in the arrivals hall by our partners in Delhi, I felt completely at ease.

I met the rest of the group I would spend the next two weeks with in the Vasant Continental Hotel in Delhi, along with our hosts over dinner.

From Delhi, our guide escorted us around the main sights of the Golden Triangle – Old and New Delhi, Agra Fort, the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort and many more. We met the horses at Pushkar Fair and continue then rode North for 6 nights. I fell in love with my forward little mare and made great friends with the team looking after us.

Our itineraries in India are perfect for people travelling in a group, with a partner or friend, or even on their own – like I did! The full itineraries are great if you’ve never visited India before as they combine the main sights in the busy cities and riding through rural villages. If you’ve already visited the main sights, or you’re short on time, you can always join for just the riding part.

The horses are forward going and can be spirited. I loved my Marwari Horse and a highlight for me was a race we had on the Salt Lake after a night camping there. You must be a confident rider, in control of a forward going horse at walk, trot and canter to enjoy this ride. In the villages and in the countryside, there is lots going on and despite the horses being extremely accustomed to this, there is always a possibility of your horse spooking. You must be an experienced rider.