Tips around a Camel Safari in the Thar-Desert

Tips around a Camel Safari
In many cities in Rajasthan, safaris  on the backs of camels are offered. This is especially the case in Jaisalmer, Pushkar, Bikaner and Osian. But watch out: camel safari is no camel safari.

1st Let show you the camels, in any case prior to booking. To distinguish weak from a healthy camel is not difficult. A healthy camel must have a pronounced hump and a healthy coat. Weak animals are a danger to the rider; they do stumble and fall easily! This has often happened, with disastrous consequences for the rider. Medical care in Jaisalmer District is still a disaster.

2nd The camels are smeared with feces in the back part, pursing his tongue out "bubble" and are in mating mood. They are stubborn, difficult to ride and can bite dangerous. On overnight treks, they like to cut off. Horny camel stallions are indeed very healthy and strong, but pretty disgusting and I do not want to have them on a safari.
3rd Does not accept camel drivers who deal brutally with the animals. It is the absolute horror when a driver pounding  permanent on a weak camel. (A slap with a branch by the rider is ok.)
4th Required for each one its own camel. Indian camel drivers often want to use use a camel together with tourist women and exploit  the situation. If you think you  can not ride alone , better sit back or let the camel  lead by the driver from the ground by a rope.

5th Take on longer safaris (one week) necessarily a tent and a camel cart. If you are tired or saddle-sore, you can even sit on the car.
6th Ask directly if possible somewhere in the tribal camelherders for a safari. Avoid the agencies and hotel owners, there is often ripped off. An agent or hotelier claimed he had "his own camels," which stand for the guests, which is mostly a lie.
7th From a three-week tour (eg Jaisalmer to Pushkar) the acquisition of its own animal is to be considered. (Costs about 500 €) in Jaisalmer, I have good experiences with the family of Lunji Singh, ( His dwelling place in Jaisalmer: "Kachi Basti") made me who has advised on the purchase of camels excellent and sold the camels at a profit . At present operates the youngest son, Padam business. (Phone: 9602741951). With this family, I'm more than once been for weeks in the desert.
8th The old Sadu Dharamlasa of Besakih, which I have recommended to stay in previous posts for an easy and cheap, is sadly dilapidated and no longer be used. The tents, but there is still possible. (Just ask the Brahmins of the nearby temple.)