Rajasthan 2023
In January 2023, we set off on a 2,200 km motorcycle journey through Rajasthan on our sturdy Royal Enfield Himalayans. We started in Delhi’s chaos, making our way to Mandawa, where the frescoed havelis were so intricate they seemed almost alive. From there, we explored Pushkar’s sacred lake, before getting spectacularly lost en route to Kuchaman City—a happy accident that led us to a remote fort perched on a hill, a place so obscure even the locals seemed surprised to see us. Bikaner welcomed us with its Camel Festival and massive fort, and Jodhpur’s blue streets felt like stepping into a dream. Udaipur’s shimmering lakes were a soothing break from the dust, and after Jaipur’s vibrant markets, we ended the trip with a visit to the Taj Mahal—because, how could we not?
Our last day
Posted on 27 January 2023 by DalmaD
The last day of our Rajasthan adventures. We go out and check out the Taj Mahal before riding back to Delhi. On the road, we meet some Indian bikers. We get to our hotel, have a last wander around South Delhi, then go home. But we’ll be back, India.
Breakdowns and Road Magic: Jaipur to Agra
Posted on 25 January 2023 by DalmaD
Today, we set off from Jaipur, aiming for Agra and the Taj Mahal, but things didn’t go quite as planned when Dalma’s bike broke down. Fortunately, a little road magic (and some local mechanics) got our Himalayan going again. We ended up in Bharatpur, where the kind folks at the local Royal Enfield dealership helped fix the bike. With everything back in working order, we rode the last few nerve-wracking kilometres to Agra. Though the mist was too thick to see the Taj Mahal today, we’ll catch it tomorrow.
From Udaipur’s Lakes to Jaipur’s Roads: Motorcycling Through India’s Surprises
Posted on 21 January 2023 by DalmaD
Udaipur drivers and riders certainly bring a certain challenge to riding around the city. Or out of it. Today, we leave it and its forts and lakes and head to Jaipur, the Pink City. We stopped halfway at Bhilwara, which increased our urge to get to Jaipur.
Challenges on the Road: Jodhpur to Udaipur
Posted on 19 January 2023 by DavidC
We loved Jodhpur. We loved eating our meals below the massive and beautiful fort or overlooking an ancient step well. We loved wandering the blue-tinged streets and the market with the clock tower, but it was time to go. We secured the luggage to the bikes. (One rather sweet thing in India is that the […]
Camels, Chaos, and Finding Calm: Bikaner to Jodhpur
Posted on 16 January 2023 by DalmaD
Bikaner surprised us with its camel festival, where the camels looked less than thrilled about dancing. Skipping the rest, we explored forts, found peace at a guesthouse, and tackled the chaotic streets. Jodhpur, with its blue havelis and stunning fort views, was where India finally felt like home.
Chai and Mud. Mandawa to Bikaner
Posted on 13 January 2023 by DavidC
Our ride to Bikaner was filled with narrow, dusty roads, chai breaks, and plenty of selfies with locals. A wrong turn led us through muddy tracks and small villages, but the smiles and hospitality we encountered, along with the endless Rajasthan highways, made it all worthwhile.
Getting Lost in Style: Pushkar to Mandawa
Posted on 13 January 2023 by DavidC
A wrong turn led us 115 kilometers off course to Kuchaman, where we stumbled upon a luxurious resort and the breathtaking Kuchaman Fort. Far from a typical museum, the fort was alive with history, light, and charm—a hidden gem that turned our detour into the best adventure yet.
Camels, Curves, and Kingfisher: The Road to Pushkar
Posted on 8 January 2023 by DavidC
We set off for Pushkar, armed with Google Maps and optimism—neither of which was entirely helpful. Dalma’s bike groaned, mine spluttered, and our path meandered through camels and cows. After 244 km of broken roads and questionable directions, we finally limped into Pushkar, grateful for beer and promises of bike repairs.
Riding Through the Cold: From Foggy Delhi to Dusty Rajasthan
Posted on 6 January 2023 by DavidC
On a foggy January morning, we left Delhi, hoping to beat the city’s legendary chaos. Dalma, tackling her first long-distance ride on a manual bike, rode like a champ—despite the freezing cold and a bike that seemed determined to misbehave. By midday, Rajasthan greeted us with smooth roads and desert air, a welcome change from Delhi’s madness. Seven hours later, we rolled into Mandawa, dusty, tired, and triumphant. After a well-earned beer, Dalma basked in her victory—250 kilometers conquered, a far cry from her earlier biking days. Tomorrow? Frescos. But for now, warmth.
Old Delhi: Forts, Spices, and Chaos
Posted on 5 January 2023 by DalmaD
We spent our last day in Delhi exploring the Red Fort—part red, part newly white—and wandered through the labyrinth of Old Delhi. From the narrow markets to the world’s largest spice bazaar, Delhi’s vibrant chaos left us in awe. It’s not a spectacle; it’s life, unfiltered and fascinating.
Delhi: Jet Lag, Jackets, and Jittery Nerves
Posted on 4 January 2023 by DavidC
We’ve spent three days in Delhi, getting lost in markets, hunting down motorbike gear, and battling jet lag. Dalma’s first impression? Overwhelmed. Mine? Business as usual. The day after tomorrow, we tackle the ride to Rajasthan. Two bikes, a city of chaos, and a new adventure waiting around every corner.
From Cruise Ships to Camel Fairs: My Ongoing Love Affair with India
Posted on 28 December 2022 by DavidC
My first visit to India was a brief stop in Mumbai during a world cruise on the QE2. Since then, I’ve lived in Delhi, explored Pushkar, and attended rock festivals in Uttar Pradesh. Now, nearly ten years later, I’m returning—this time with Dalma and motorbikes—ready to rediscover this part of the world.