HORSE ECOTOURISM

Highlights

• Ecotourism Initiative: NRCE Bikaner blends conservation with visitor experiences, opening its gates for educational and recreational activities.

Breed Variety:

• • Marwari horses: iconic to Rajasthan with inward-turning ears

  • Kathiawari, Zanskari, Manipuri horses, plus Poitou donkeys – French breed.

Activities:

• • Horse & pony riding

  • Tonga/buggy rides through lush zones & desert huts

  • Explore the Equine Museum & Information Centre

  • See equine hydrotherapy in action

  • Souvenir shopping: handicrafts, leather goods, dried Rajasthani vegetables.

Visitor Experience

• Reviewers praise the greenery, well-kept enclosures, and varied rides like baggi/tonga safaris; ideal for families, students, and photography.

• Gorgeous landscape, peaceful atmosphere, and ideal for day outings or pre-wedding shoots.

Nearby Must-See Attraction

• National Research Centre on Camels (~8 km away):
  Camel farm, museum, camel rides, camel-milk parlour. Open 2 pm–6 pm; charges ∼₹30–100.

Alternatives to Consider

1. Umaid Safari & Desert Lodge (near Raisar, ~15 km from Bikaner):
   Offers Marwari horse riding in desert dunes, organic farm stays, bird-watching, and camel/jeep safaris. Ideal for immersive rural/desert experiences.

2. Horse-drawn Tonga tours in Old Bikaner:
   Short cultural rides through heritage lanes and havelis, e.g., via Tinggly experience (2 hours, urban-centric) .

 Tips Before You Go

• Clothing: Dress in layers; desert mornings/evenings can be chilly. Bring sunscreen and a hat .

• Booking: Weekdays are less crowded. Advance booking recommended for group visits or events.

• Combine Visits: Pair with camel farm, Gajner Sanctuary, Junagarh Fort, or Karni Mata Temple for a full day.

• Comfort Items: Bring water, snacks, and sunglasses. Daytime is ideal for most activities.

Summary

If horse ecotourism is your focus, the NRCE Bikaner Campus stands out—offering variety, conservation, edutainment, and scenic settings. For deeper rural or desert immersion, Umaid Safari is an excellent extension. Alternatively, culture-rich city rides like Tonga tours offer a heritage-centric spin.