Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

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Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Nice teasers.
Still waiting for the next part though!

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Pre-planning:

I texted my Manager seeking permission for leaves from December 23rd to January 2nd a month before the journey; to which he immediately agreed. In the meantime, I'd my train tickets booked from Chennai to Ahmedabad and Jaipur to Chennai. I was in touch with Bala to see how he wanted to plan this ride. He initially suggested me that he would love to ride all the way from Chennai to Gujarat as he's sure of getting a 17-day holiday. However, it did not work as per his plan as he got an immediate task from his office that he must report in Delhi during the new year weekend. So, he pulled out from the entire plan.

Yet, I wanted to continue with this trip as getting a 10-day holiday period is once in a blue-moon for me. I definitely did not want to miss this opportunity. I own a 2 and a half-year old Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350 that I've clocked close to 40,000 Kms. Initially, she was all good! I had no complaints about the machine. As the months progressed, she started giving me troubles on monthly-basis. I kept tackling the issues one at a time and it did burn a big hole in my pocket. This time I was experiencing weird issues with my motorcycle put together. Just 2 weeks before the trip, it stalled in between. I didn't know what the issue was and it failed to start. I took it to the nearest mechanic shop and within few seconds he told me that I'd to replace the fuse that was blown. I did that and it ran for few more days and it eventually gave me the same issue. I took it to another mechanic and he told that the fuses were mis-placed . In place of 10 amp fuse, 15 was replaced and that's the reason for the blown fuse again. This time, I decided to fix it on my own. Got new set of fuses from the nearby shop and I replaced them all. Also, I carried few with me while travelling as it may blow anytime.

Unfortunately, it happened again. I no longer wanted to keep changing the fuses, rather, I decided to get this thing sorted first. I was told by a chief mechanic from RE that there could be some wiring issues and it has to be checked to see if there's a short circuit. Also, my rear MRF Zapper had less treads. I thought it would be wise to get it replaced as my earlier tyre was prone to punctures quite often. Gave my motorcycle for servicing and got everything sorted and this time it was little above 5000 INR excluding the tyres which I purchased it from an MRF tyre showroom. I told the staff at RE to keep the bike under observation for few days before they give me a green light as I didn't want to get stranded in the middle of nowhere. I was assured that the electrical issues are fixed and I should no longer experience any issue. I rode it for few more days and I was happy with it.

As I got my bike fixed, I also started to book the rooms through ibibo and Oyo as the tariffs were already sky-high due to the Christmas-New Year holiday factor. But, I've managed to get some great deals and it turned out to be pretty economical. Since I've already planned the routes, I was sure that I can stick to my original plans and not to deviate from that, and if I do so, I may just mess up my original itinerary.

Transporting

Even though I wanted to send my vehicle to Ahmedabad via train, I was a bit-sceptical about the entire process and I did not have enough time to investigate and co-ordinate the entire process. So, I decided to check with private packers to see if they charge a reasonable price. First on the choice was "Agarwal packers & movers". They provided me a quotation of 7999 to get it transported to Ahmedabad ( exclusive of packing charges).That was way above than my budget. So, I didn't think of any and decided that I should go ahead with the Indian Railways. Went to the luggage office at Chennai Central a week before to know the procedures even though I've read many blogs about this. Before I was about to make a contact with the Supervisor in the luggage room, I was intercepted by an agent asking me what do I need. I told him that I'd like to have my Thunderbird taken as a luggage in Navajeevan express next Saturday, to which he replied that he can do everything and asked me to come a day before than the actual departure of the train. I was patiently waiting for the agent to move from that place, when he moved away, I spoke with the Supervisor and he told me the procedure and the cost as well. The agent told me that it would cost 7000 bucks including the packing. But, the original cost of sending as a luggage came close to 3450 bucks and even if I pay 1000 for packing, it's 4500 in total. The supervisor instructed me clearly not to get in touch with the agents as they manipulate us by giving incorrect information. A day before my journey, I once again walked into the Luggage room premises to see if I can get this packed. But, I was told by the staff that they can take the entry only few hours before the departure of the train when it's booked as a luggage. I did not want any last minute hiccups, that's the reason I went a day before to get this thing sorted.
But the supervisor told me that booking can be made only hours prior to the departure and he assured me that it's their duty to get the bike boarded on the same train and that shouldn't be an issue.

Meanwhile, I struck a deal with another guy for packing and he told me to come in the morning. I was initially a bit-nervous as I'd only 2 hours left for the train and I'm yet to pack and load my vehicle. The packing guy arrived around 7:30 AM in the morning. I had to empty the petrol from the tank. When I started from Perungalathur(a suburb in Chennai, 30-kms away from the Central station), I had less petrol. However, in the process of emptying it, it gave me almost 3 litres. My father arrived at the station with the luggages on his car and he told me to take care of the packing and he will place all the luggages in my seat. I removed both the mirrors and took them along. I carried a back bag, saddle-bag(where I stuffed in all my clothes), Tank Bag, Helmet and had my Rynox gear on, since I couldn't find any place.

The agents packed my bike with waste cotton, rice bag fabric covers, cardboards. Even though they didn't look like pros' while packing, they ensured that the packing was safe. Got my slip from the Railway police and got it booked as luggage. You may have read or heard more about packing your bike as parcel or luggage in train, here are my tips:

For Luggage:

1. Arrive 4 hours before the departure of your train.

2. A photocopy of the following:
a) Travelling ticket
b)RC Book
c)Insurance copy
d)Govt authorised ID

3. Empty your petrol tank before entering the station premises; the authorities may impose a penalty if you're caught in process of sneaking petrol inside the station.

4. Make your booking and fill in the necessary information including the train name, boarding point and the arrival destination, and the insured value of the bike.

5. Upon filling in the form, you'll be receiving a confirmation receipt from the staff once you make the payment. You would need that receipt to get your luggage back from the arrival destination.

The supervisor then accompanied the bike and few other luggages to make sure that it's getting loaded on the luggage van. I was once again nervous as both parcel and the luggage van were filled with boxes. The supervisor then instructed the guys to first load the bike and then to load the boxes but they did not listen. The supervisor lost the patience and yelled at them to load this first. To which they obliged, and loaded it in the middle of boxes. There were few more boxes that were yet to loaded but there was no place in the rake, the guy literally stood on the bike's seat, silencer and also the handlebar to pack things up. This time, I had to intervene and shout at them not to do so but they told that they have no other option and told me not worry that he's standing with minimal pressure and wouldn't cause any damage to my vehicle. The door was locked 5 mins prior to the departure and I had to run all the way to the front to board the train. Thanked my dad and the folks who packed my bike as the train departed.

It's wise not to know about my 32-hour train journey as it was horrendous to the core and I don't want to be reminded about that

Fast Forward:

Reached Ahmedabad on 24th of December at 6:45 PM. Wore my riding jacket and my back bag. Slid my helmet and the tank bag into my arms. Carried the saddle bag in one hand with terrible pain. A coolie came to my rescue offering his service. I told him that I would like to first get my bike unloaded. I would like to reveal that I can't speak Hindi fluently; but, yes, I can manage with broken Hindi and English. Initially, it was a bit difficult for me to communicate with the coolie but later we both could well connect. He helped me to unload the bike; paid 50 bucks for the in-charge to give the exit permission (I don't know why). Later the same guy arranged for an auto to take me to a nearest petrol bunk to get the fuel. Once I came back, the coolie fitted back the mirrors and was wiping my bike to make sure it was clean. Gave him 500 bucks for all his assistance and he asked me to drop at his place. Loaded all my luggages and dropped him at his place. I thanked him once again for his help. Ahmedabad on a Sunday evening looked empty. The traffic density was sparse; may be I felt that way since I'm accustomed to Chennai's traffic. Took me just 5 minutes to reach Hotel Kadamb-inn located at Ashram road. Wanted to freshen up and planned to watch "Tiger Zinda Hai" at a nearby multiplex. Later, I dismissed that plan since it was already 9 and I should start the next morning towards Kutch. Had a Gujarati thali at a nearby hotel and called it a day!










I'm sorry; I'd to admit that this chapter doesn't contain interesting features and exciting photos.

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I know! I couldn't find time since the day I started this thread. I look forward to finish the complete travelogue.

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Great narration!
Bring it on!

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Waiting for more

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Day 1, 25-Dec-2017

Had a sound sleep the previous night after a horrendous train travel. I've always managed to wake few minutes before the alarm comes alive. It was the same this time as well. Wanted to start the day with a cup of coffee to stay active! When I came out to the streets, it was completely deserted but I was fortunate enough to locate a chai stall outside city gold multiplex. Had two cups of coffee and they kept me alive. Came back to the room and took a quick shower; packed all my bags and left to the parking lot to mount my luggage. It was almost 7:45 AM when I left the hotel. I was pretty excited about today's ride as I'll be riding to the white Rann, the place that I'd been planning to visit for a very long time.

The Christmas factor helped me to ride out from the city real quick. It just took me few minutes to get to the city's outer. My initial plan was to reach Bhuj first (where I'd booked for the room); leave my luggage; have my lunch and then to proceed towards the white Rann. Didn't mind to ask for directions as google maps showed to continue on NH-947 up to Malia. All of a sudden, I noticed a board displaying "South Indian restaurant" on the opposite side. Took a U-turn and I've already started to imagine that I'm munching in idly's and vada's. However, I couldn't spot the restaurant. Then there was a board that displayed the restaurant is inside a fuel station. It's an HP bunk, I believe. It wasn't a restaurant but a small shop and I had idly's and vada's. After noticing the TN registration board, some were curious to know about my travel. I explained them saying I didn't ride all the way from Chennai. Yet, they couldn't come to terms when I told them I'm planning to ride towards Rajasthan as well. Bid them bye and continued towards Malia. I was able to see a lot of motorcycling enthusiasts riding towards the same destination; a majority of them were from Maharasthra.

Stopped at a nearby paddy field to relax for a while and to admire the nature. Couple of women farmers came towards me and asked why am I on this attire and what's that on my helmet. I've tried to explain them as much as I can but they couldn't understand much yet they nodded their heads (my bad that I couldn't communicate to them properly) Reached Maliya or it's proximity and I needed to head towards Bhachau. The maps showed me that I was on the right route but I ended up taking a wrong turn and it showed me nothing other than "SILCHAR" and the distance was 3000 kms. There was no one on the highway that I can ask for help. The maps screwed me up big time and it kept me confusing. Yet, I followed my instinct and took the same route where I came from. The place where I took a detour, I managed to stay on the service lane instead and joined another highway. Checked with a lorry driver and he told me that I'm travelling on the correct path and I would reach Bhachau.

A stretch that could've lasted for 15-20 kms had wind mills on either side of the road. It was completely a surreal experience. Enjoyed the view; took couple of snaps and reached Bhachau; the national highway ends at Bhachau and the next 80 km stretch towards Bhuj is a state highway. Until this point, the roads were completely fantastic from Ahmedabad and I've literally no complaints. Also, I'm really astonished on witnessing the supreme quality of these highways. After entering the Bhachau-Bhuj stretch there was a total change in the environment. The road was narrow, yet, they were in sublime condition. The traffic was very limited and there was a change of attire in people. Bullock and Camel carts could be seen. I felt rejuvenated.

Reached Hotel viable residency, a few kms before the town of Bhuj. It was 1:45 PM when I reached the destination. I'd originally planned to have a quick lunch and start as early as I can towards White Rann. But, it took them an hour to serve a lunch. By the time I completed my lunch it was already 3:30 PM. I also wanted to visit Kala Dungar but I knew that I may have to drop that plan from my itinerary. White Rann was still 90 Km away from my place.

Started riding towards the white desert after filling my petrol tank. Once again, Google Maps screwed up big time and so did few locals I needed to stay on 341 to reach Bhirandiyara village check post. However, I ended up taking the opposite direction and clocked close to 25 kms and came to my senses when I saw the board "Lakhpat". I asked a motorist how should I get back to 341. He suggested me to follow him which I did and he told me correct directions and I thanked him. It was almost 5 PM and I'd to cover 60 more to reach the white rann. I kept pushing as fast I could and reached the check post. Another 15 minute delay for obtaining the entry ticket. By 5:50, I reached the white Rann. I was fortunate enough to witness the sunset! I just made it few minutes before it turned completely dark. I didn't want to ride on the white desert and even if I wish to so, I wouldn't be allowed :P I gazed at the entire surrounding and I was completely lost. Disappearance of sun below the horizon was a delight to watch with our naked eyes. Didn't bother much to take my camera out and click few pics. But, it would be a sin if I couldn't click some pics. Little did I manage to click some pictures. Not to forget about the peak season of Rann Utsav, the entire place looked like a carnival. People from different parts of the country thronged the white desert and the BSF had a hard time in patrolling and organising the traffic. Since I wanted to stay away from the crowd, walked deep into the white desert; sat there for a while by looking at the stars.
Absolute calmness, sunset down the horizon, glittering stars gave me an immersive experience. I did not want to leave the place. Later I realised that it's already 8 PM and I need to get back to Bhuj as I need to start to Udaipur the next morning.

I thought I'd be a lonely rider. Thanks to the christmas factor. I was constantly sandwiched between two hours through out the trip. I felt that I was being escorted and managed to reach Bhuj at 9:30 PM. Had rotis and Dum aloo at the hotel and hit the sack at 11PM.

Highlights for the day:

Starting Point : Ahmedabad
Destination: Bhuj
Distance covered: 550 Kms (including the detour)
Route taken: Ahmedabad - Viramgam - Malia - Lakadia - Bhachau - Bhuj - Bhirandiyara- White Rann - Bhuj
Fuel: Filled my tank in Ahmedabad the previous evening (1200) and filled it again before starting to White Rann at Bhuj (650)

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Day 2 - 26-Dec-2017 AKA "The Boxing day"

Had a good sleep last night at the Viable residency in Bhuj with the satisfaction of having visited the rann of Kutch. I desperately wanted to spend the night in a camp last night but I didn't have time or the budget.

Today's plan was to ride towards Udaipur via Palasava - Deesa - Palanpur on NH-27 and enter Rajasthan on Abu Road. Before I started my ride from Bhuj, I wanted to see whether it would be feasible to do Dholavira on the same day and head towards Udaipur. I was told that it might get late for me if I deviate from NH-27 and enter Dholavira. I initially wanted to start my ride around 7 AM. However, the visibility factor refrained me from starting the journey that early. So, I did relax a bit and watched few overs of the 4th test between the Aussies and England.

Also, I almost spent an hour waiting for the complimentary breakfast and left the dining hall as I could no longer waste my time; which I regret for doing so; Had I started around 8 Am, I would've made my way towards Dholavira. Nevertheless, there was no point of looking back now. So, I paid my bills and headed towards Bhachau. It was almost 9:30 ish when I left the hotel. Did not wear a thermal liner; I regret for not wearing one The cold wind just kept blowing and I couldn't ride for more than 30 minutes. Few kilometres before Bhachau, spotted a roadside Dhaba. Ordered two Paranthas. Little did I know about the size of them.

When they bought those Parantha's, they were the size of two large pizza's. Even half of it would put my hunger to rest. However, I did manage to eat one full Parantha and asked the owner to parcel me the other one. "Hunger, will no longer be a hinderance", I said to myself and was cruising on the NH-27.

Man, oh man! The road condition from Lakadia to Palanpur was truly mesmerising. Did not notice any bumps or bad patches on this entire stretch. All I did was just "Cruise" through out the stretch. The roads in Gujarat are the most sublime, in my opinion. Also, there's no such thing called "Traffic". Despite the christmas-new year factor, the vehicular movement remained relatively low. I know Dholavira was definitely out of context, as it's already past 12 and if I take left towards Rapar to reach Dholavira, I may not make it to Udaipur. So, I had to stick to my plan. Met few riders on the highway, exchanging salutes.

Stopped at a nearby bunk and filled petrol to the brim. After cruising on the 3 digit speed for such a long time, the chain has loosened a bit. Also, I noticed there's a heavy leak of fork oil on the right. With just few kms to reach Palanpur, I checked with few bystanders and was told that there's a RE service centre nearby and I can check with them. So, I reached the service centre and asked whether something could be done. The supervisor immediately checked the vehicle and told that the fork cap has to be replaced. As they didn't have stock, I was told that it would take 2 hours to get it from the warehouse. As it was already 5 PM, I told them that it would be too late for me and I should reach Udaipur. To which he told that, I can proceed with this as it's not a major issue and get it replaced whenever I can. I was fine with that idea and the supervisor asked the mechanic to tighten and lube the chain. It was done real quick and I asked them to bill me. I was surprised to hear this answer "We don't charge from the riders for minor services. Only in terms of replacements, we bill you". It was indeed a great gesture from the RE team, Palanpur. I thanked them and made my way into Rajasthan.

As I entered Rajasthan, I was welcomed by the majestic view of Abu! A hill station in Rajasthan? Well, I had to believe them as I just witnessed it. The traffic density became sparse as compared to Gujarat. With some enchanting views, rode towards Udaipur. For the most part, the journey has been relatively peaceful. It was relaxed, safe and peaceful. Now, there's a bit of jolt to that order. By 6 PM, the sun was completely down. The temperature has started to dip as well. I did not want to unmount my saddle bag to get the thermals. I decided to ride as it was only 80+ more kms. I managed to spot a small shop on the highway. I decided to have a small break for a chai. There was only one guy in the shop, apparently the owner I believe. I was sipping the hot chai and all of a sudden noticed two-2 wheelers with 3 in each bike came to the shop. They didn't look like the locals. They were gazing at me when I took my cell phone out to check the distance. One of the guys had an axe on his hand. (could be for a domestic purpose). They suddenly split in groups and discussed something in isolation. When I took my wallet out, the other guy was even steadily looking upon it. Initially, I thought it was due to my riding gears. Later, I know that it's not the gears and it could be something more. Because, people who on seeing your attire, will definitely try to make an attempt to have a conversation with you to know the whereabouts; but, this was not the case here. The shop was literally located on the middle of nowhere; I was yet to spot a vehicle patrolling the highway; there was no one on the spot except the shop keeper. My heart by that time started to pound heavily. I gotta admit that I was scared to death despite no bad events. Just wanted to be on the safer side, I decided to leave the place real quick. Well, I didn't run way from that place. Did that with some style though ; pulled out a cigarette and looked them in their eyes while puffing them and gave an impression that I'm a badass too. (I know it's funny, but thought it would be cool to do so )


Didn't mind to turn back. Started my journey towards Udaipur; all that was running into my mind was I must get out of the highway real quick. After 40 Kms, I got off the highway near Sukher road and I was just 20 kms away from my destination. Now, I'm starting to see more people and vehicles. Finally reached my destination and checked into Hotel Rangniwas Palace. That's what you call it as a heritage hotel. Neat and well maintained and also it gives you a royale feel. Located very close to the palace and lake, I'd recommend this to everyone. As it was only 8 PM, I just wanted to wander around the city. I was told that the city palace is just minutes away from the hotel and I can still walk around the building at this time but not the museum and inside the palace. So walked down few metres after having a hot shower at the hotel to visit the palace.

Had a glimpse at the architectural beauty of this man made marvel. Took few snaps of the palace. After munching in few chappathis at a nearby hotel and a glass of beer, came back to the room and crashed for the day.

First glimpse of Mt. Abu







People back home would be happy to know that there's Kalyan jewellers in Udaipur




Hotel Rangniwas Palace







The city palace of Udaipur

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Nice one brother.. Lovely shots ..

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Very nicely put. Awesome write up. Getting inspired to do a ride. Ha-ha.

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Nicely put!

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Very nicely put. Thanks for refreshing memories

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Thank you so much brother!

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Thank you so much Siddharth.

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Thanks Krishna.

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Thank you Raghav. To be honest, all credits to you. It was only because of your travelogue "A Quick Ride to Rann", I started to dream about this trip. It later turned into reality.

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Glad to know that Vivek. Pleasure is all mine, if I could be of some help

Re: A solo adventure ride to the state of Thar desert, and the White Rann

Day 3, Dec-27-2017:

Couldn't recollect when was the last time I slept without a fan. As temperature dipped below 12 degree celsius, I did not need a fan to have a peaceful sleep. It was complimented well by the Hotel's architecture. It was 7 in the morning, the alarm went off; I wanted to put it to snooze and get back to the snore mode again. However, I know that I gotta start to Jodhpur as soon as I complete the sightseeing in Udaipur. With that thought hovering on my mind, I got up. I've this weird habit of going for a walk if the weather is pleasant. So, went for a quick walk on the nearby street that goes all the way to the Palace. To my surprise, the entire place was packed with vehicles. Volvo's, Scania's and other buses were lined-up. I checked with the shop-keeper to know why there's heavy flow of tourist in the very morning. I was told that this was the peak season in Udaipur and normally tourists would flock the city during the Christmas-New year weekend.

So, I decided to head back to my room, get ready for breakfast so that I can complete my sightseeing for the day. After having a hot shower, went to the lawn to have tea and some breakfast. The caretaker/owner/inheritor who pretty much had a resemblance to Naseeruddin Shah was present at the lawn reading the newspaper. I wanted to strike a conversation with him, but thought that it might be an intrusion to his privacy. So, went straight to the tables where breakfast was served. Their menu had a traditional English breakfast. I've to admit that Pongal,puri, Idly,vada,dosa will any day be my menu for breakfast. However, I decided to go with a French toast with poached eggs and some tea and pancake with chocolate syrup. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that I would have this :P The toast was so good with the wheat bread. Dipped the pancake in the chocolate syrup and it was totally out of the world! Concluded the breakfast with the tea. The caretaker came to my table to pour the tea to my glass from the kettle. I thanked him to which he replied "You're welcome sir"!

As I had to vacate my room, I asked the guy at the reception whether I could keep my things at the office lobby. To which he said, "It's OK" and I can collect my things once I'm done with the sight-seeing.

This was suppose to be a leisure trip! So, I didn't want to push myself. First on my list was a boat ride in Lake Pichola. 100's of tourists were present at the ticket counter waiting for their ride. As I was alone, I could hop on to any boat and there would be at least 2 to 3 empty seats. The boat ride lasted for 30 minutes. The views of Lake Pichola were truly mesmerising. I wish the authorities in future would be more stringent in enforcing certain conditions while travelling on the boat. When the kids went to the edge of their seats to click pictures with selfie sticks on one hand and the other hand to pose with the signature symbol to illustrate "cool,peace" or whatever, I could see no resistance from their parents or the guy who's on control of the boat.

After the joyous ride in the lake, decided to visit the "City Palace of Udaipur"!

Terming this monumental beauty as an "Architectural brilliance" is a mere understatement. The first view of the Palace was from the lake. I was completely mind blown. The other thing that blew me was the crowd waiting to buy the tickets. It looked as if the crowd is waiting for celebrities outside the academy awards function. Took me more than 30 minutes to buy the entry tickets. The entry ticket into the palace and the museum was 300 INR, I guess. It was definitely worth the money. Stepped into the premises of the palace at 10 AM and came out around 12:30 PM. Decided to start from Udaipur and head towards Monsoon Palace and then to Jodhpur.

Loaded my luggage on the bike and started to ride towards Monsoon Palace. By the time I reached Monsoon palace, it was already 1:30 PM. I decided to just view this marvel from a considerable distance and decided to head towards Jodhpur. For the first few minutes, I had trouble in finding NH-58 as it would lead me all the way to Rajsamand. The locals were not helpful either in pointing me to the right direction as every single person gave me a different direction to reach Jodhpur. Later, I had to narrow it down to Sukher, so that I will be able to join the highway. Finally, was able to find myself on the highway(don't ask me how, it was an accident :P) Rode for 70 kms at a stretch and decided to have my lunch. All I have to say is "Rajasthani Thali"! It worked for me till the end of my journey.

There was an exit from the NH after few KM's. I did not even know whether I was heading in the right direction. Google maps did not give up on me; it still gave me the directions. The only thing I knew was that I'm riding on the state highways. I couldn't see any boards. The maps showed that it was 140 Kms to Jodphur and within a span of two minutes, it was increased to 164. That was impossible. So, I went back few kms to check whether the maps would point me to the right direction and yet, it showed me the opposite direction. I was terribly confused and I saw myself in a village. On seeing me confused, a villager came for my rescue. He told that I got into a wrong exit. However, he told that he will ride along with me on his bike to show me the right direction and that would lead me all the way to Rajsamand. Finally back to the highway! I thanked him for his help and in quick time reached Rajsamand and then Pali. If not for his rescue, I would have definitely found myself in a delicate position.

Finally reached the outers of Jodhpur around 7. The city had a thick density of traffic. Reached the hotel around 7:30. Went to a nearby bakery and got myself a loaf of bread and butter for my dinner that was later accompanied by a Carslberg beer to quench my thirst. Made a phone call to my home to let them know about my whereabouts.

The Lawn at Rangniwaas palace