Khuri

The desert! Despite many offers of camel treks offered around the city, i had heard that it was better to head out to Khuri, a small village 40kms or so outside of Jaisalmer, and organise something there. And i am glad i did!

While the 1400rs tours offered MAY have been nicer, i got one i was happy with for 450rs!

Although the effort of getting out there almost made me regret my DIY approach. Weither by design or just ineptitude, the location of the bus station seemed to be a mystery to everyone, including the guidebook.

Got on it eventually though, and made it out to the village, the most rural setting i have thus been to. And found a great little guesthouse, offering rooms in the local African style huts, for 75rs, including 3 meals! SOOO cheap, i was rather shocked, but it turned out fine, and has been the bargain of my trip so far. Opted to leave that afternoon on the camel ride, spend the night in the desert, and then the following night at the guesthouse.

Camels are, well, not comfortable. They are wider than horses, and the movement isn't as smooth, but it wasn't a painful experience, and I

am glad I did it! The highlight was sleeping under the stars, which were just beautiful, and its been a long time since I have been able to see so many, including at least 3 planets as well. The sunset wasn't so bad either! It has been a while since i have woken up for a sunrise as well, and i am glad i did! The others on the trip were all asleep and missed it.

After getting back from the desert, I spent the day and night just relaxing in the village, reading alot and walking around. While there are a few guesthouses, much of the village seems uneffected by it.

Comments on the people of Rajasthan - The men look like pirates! Diamond/gold earings, moustaches, turbans, and a cocky swagger about everything they do- very roguish. The women are the most beautiful i have thus seen in India. Tall, slim, with stern features but a different air about them than other states. Many cover their heads with their saris, and indeed, there is a deep conservatism in Rajasthan that is certainly no longer present in the cities. The village bus was segregated!

On top of getting the new shirts, i thought it was nice to get another shave/haircut, and paid 60rs this time, but a roof, and a chair was included in the 10rs extra price!