Feb 6 Jaisalmer

I met a couple of lovely American ladies from DC at breakfast at my hotel. We went to the Desert Festival together.

It was held at a stadium, and they had a special seating area for Foreign Tourists, right on the 50 yard line.

The first event was the camel decorating contest. The camels and their riders were spectacular. It was a real show. One of the Americans was asked to be a judge.

There were several other events. Some rather weird. There was one contest where camel riders dismounted. They took off the saddles and placed them about 20 feet to the back. Then they took their camel blankets and placed them another 20 feet back. Another 20 feet back they untied their turbans. Finally, at another 20 feet off came their trousers. So, starting in their underwear, at a whistle they raced to put on their pants, then their turbans, and so on. I am not sure how the winner was decided. It wasn't the first one on the camel again.

There also was a local game that looked like tag, only a lot more physical.

Then there was a camel polo game. Quite funny watching the camels romp around.

The highlight was a Tug-of -war, first pitting foreign men against Indian men. I actually had a spot on the team, but gave it to a Belgian, who was really keen on participating. The foreigners won 2 out of 3. Then came the ladies, foreigners against Indians. Both of my new acquaintances were on the team. After two hard fought pulls, they won. It was impressive.

Later this afternoon we are off to a Camel Tattoo. Sort of like a desert version of the RCMP musical ride.

Should be interesting.

There sure a lot of photos for me to sort once I get home.

Tata