A slightly later start this morning saw us leave at 8.30 to make our way to Rao Jodha Park. Sitting right next to the fort at Jodhpur it covers about 35 acres of rocky landscape in the Thar Desert. It is an area that has been cleared of an invasive Central American plant, (mesquite) and replanted with species native to this area. This was only started in 2006 and already they have seen a dramatic increase in the wildlife in the area. We followed one of the trails, learning about the native plants that are adapted to a rocky desert environment. Annual rainfall comes in the monsoon season but for this part of India is still only around 25cm. They rarely get any rain other than the 6 - 8 weeks from mid July.
From here we went onto the Mehrangarth Fort.
The construction was started in 1450 but various additions were made over the following 400 years. It stands in an imposing position high above the city of Jodhpur, and although it started life as a Fort, it became a Palace for the Maharajahs, although now the official residence for the Maharajah is on the other side of the city.
There was much to see, including howdahs used to transport the Maharajah, Palequins for the ladies, armoury used and very ornate babies cribs.
By the time we had finished it was time for lunch in a cafe on the site. I have to confess to ordering an omelette and chips! 😳😋😋
Then it was back in the bus to head to Osian. It was a 2 hour drive and on the way we stopped to look at another step well and a number of small temples dating back to between the 8th and 12th centuries. It was sad to see the amount of rubbish around them. Plastic bags, crisp packets, cans, clothes and the odd shoe, and amongst all that the cows, so watch where you put your feet!
Getting back onto the bus, we were accosted by 2 young girls begging. Probably of primary school age, with grimy clothes and bedraggled hair it was hard to ignore them. It’s not the first time on this trip and won’t be the last but you can’t get used to seeing things like this. They should be in school as it is mandatory but if their parents don’t enforce it, it seems the state doesn’t either.
On to the desert and some much needed exercise! It’s been a nonstop holiday but very little exercise. We had a local guide who was taking us into the Thar desert to find out more about local flora and fauna and how local communities live.
Once again we could see contrasts. The barrenness of the desert - rock, sand, some scrubby plants, and also some trees. One in particular is especially adapted to desert life and can go 5 years without water. It has a deep and wide root system, does not lose its leaves, and in times of drought can be cut back and the cuttings fed to livestock as it is very nutritious.
The small community we passed were growing mustard and cumin, for which they had an irrigation system. Further from their homes where crops such as millet, lentils and sesame seeds were growing, they had small huts, and when it comes to harvest time they will move to these huts so they are nearer to where the work has to be done.
We were shown a variety of different plants that are used for medication, building and thatching, as well as food and seasoning.
Some of the young lads from the village came out and hung around whilst we were having things explained to us. They seemed to find us very interesting!
As we returned to the minibus the sun was setting, giving us a good photo opportunity!
Dinner was at a local hotel/restaurant and was traditional Rahjastani fare. We sat out in the courtyard and although cool it was ok and a fire had been lit for our benefit. Once again we really enjoyed the food.
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