Roaring through Rajasthan: A Royal Enfield Adventure | Motorcycle Tour in India
- Steph Jeavons
- Mar 28
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 29
The Maharaja Run
Rajasthan. The land of kings, forts, vibrant colours, and the unforgettable rumble of a Royal
Enfield. My dream of running a Moto Junkies tour with a difference through this magical
Indian state finally became a reality in this year, and it was everything I hoped for and more.
From Delhi Hustle to Royal Rumble (Days 1-2)
Our journey began in the bustling metropolis of Delhi where we got our twelve intrepid
travellers settled into their first hotel to recover from their flight. Not for too long though, as
that afternoon we plunged them into Old Delhi to experience the chaotic beauty of Chandni
Chowk. The sensory overload of the spice market, the intricate Jain temples, and the
delicious street food was a perfect introduction to India.
The real excitement began the following morning when the team were introduced to their
trusty Himalayans and taken on an orientation ride to a bikers cafe.
They say you need three things to ride in India. Good breaks, good horn, and good luck!
I find the quicker you stop looking at the chaotic traffic, and get out into it, the better. This
‘style’ of driving/riding always looks worse from the sidelines. Actually, once you are riding
it, you very quickly get the hang of it and realise that there is, arguably, a method in the
madness! Personally, I love it and felt that familiar buzz wash over me as soon as we hit the
road. I hoped my guests would feel it too. Thankfully they did. Fearful expressions and
nervous laughter was quickly replaced by smiling faces and excitable chatter.
Into the Wild (Days 3-5)
Leaving Delhi, we rode towards Sariska, checking into Sariska Manor with its cooling
swimming pool overlooked by our large and lovely rooms. Once refreshed we heading out
for an evening sundowner on some boulders nearby which was a magical experience. The
sunset painting the landscape in warm hues. Though we didn't spot any hyenas as we’d
hoped, the beauty of the wilderness was more than enough. It felt so peaceful out there.
Next, we rode to Ranthambore for a couple of tiger safaris by Jeep. Our afternoon safari saw
a couple sloth bears and a hyena, but the elusive tiger remained hidden. The flora and fauna
made the experience worthwhile though and I hoped nobody was too disappointed. You can
never guarantee a sighting of course and Tigers as not always cooperative!
I need not have worried as the next morning safari introduced us to, not one but, THREE
tigers in VERY close proximity! We could not have got any closer! Ten years ago, I had been
lucky enough to meet Machli, the oldest tiger known in the wild at that time. Machli has long
since gone but these three now were Machli’s great, and great great grandkids. A mother with
her teenage kids. This close encounter was so special to me and emotional for us all. There
were certainly a few tears of joy, and that was just the guys! I was ecstatic to have been part
of their journey and grateful to the tigers for honouring us with this moment that will last a
lifetime in all our memories.
Forts, Stepwells, and Artistic Wonders (Days 6-8)
Bundi was our next stop and is a charming town, with its ancient stepwell and Taragarh Fort.
It feels like stepping back in time. The intricate artwork on the fort walls is well worth a walk
up the hill if you can take the heat and the cobbles (not to mention the incline) but the thing I
love the most about this place is the warm welcome. This was not a one off as this was my
third time visiting and it has been the same every time. There is something special about
Bundi. If you’ve been you’ll know what I mean.
Continuing to the romantic town of Udaipur, we pulled up outside another romantic looking
hotel by the lake. Udaipur is where James Bond Octapussy was filmed and you can well
believe it. It just looks like a film set and is steeped in history.
The next day was spent exploring the town and the City Palace, a masterpiece of architecture
that blended Rajasthani, Mughal, and European styles. The audio guide brought the history to
life, and the views of the famous Lake Pichola were simply breathtaking. Indian glamour at
its best.
The Great Wall and a Magical Evening (Days 9-10)
Our journey took us to Narlai village via the impressive Kumbalgarh Fort, also known as the
Great Wall of India. Arriving in Narlai, the evening stepwell dinner was something I had been
dying to check out. We had booked it for the guests at a bit of a premium and I was hoping it
was going to be worth it! I needn’t have worried. It truly was a magical experience.
Riding in a bullock cart through the woods, the beautifully lit stepwell, came into view
through the darkness. I’ve never seen anything like it. Live music filled the air as we were
seated around the stepwell before enjoying a delicious meal under the stars. Just
mezmorising. So much so that many of our group fell asleep!
The ride to Jodhpur was smooth, and we spent the rest of the day exploring this "Blue City"
at our own pace. It was hot here. Hotter than predicted for this time of year, but we kept cool
with milk shakes in the shade.
Mehrangarh Majesty and Pushkar's Charm (Days 11-12)
The next morning, we explored the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, with its imposing walls
and stunning views of Jodhpur. Walking through the spice market and sampling local
delicacies like Misri Mawa and Lassi felt very….well…Indian!
The next day we rode to Pushkar, a holy city known for its lake and the famous rose gardens.
This was a new town for me and I found it quite different to anywhere we had been to date.
You cannot eat eggs here or drink beer and you must take your shoes off to walk near the
lake. It was interesting but I must admit I was happy that our hotel was on the outskirts so we
could enjoy our G&T's by the pool as was now standard practice!
Elephant Encounters (Days 13-14)
Our next stop was Jaipur, where we chose a quieter stay on the outskirts at Dera Amer
Wilderness Camp. The highlight was interacting with the resident elephants who had been
rescued from a life in the grimy concrete jungle taking tourists up and down the cobbled
paths to the fort, day in day out. We walked in the woods with them (next to them, not riding
them). We bathed them afterward and they even joined us for breakfast the next day! Another
truly magical encounter.
The bonfire and barbecue dinner under the starry sky were a perfect way to end the day and
the luxury tents in the woods were spectacular. They had en suite bathrooms, heating, and
even a turn down service. A person could truly be spoiled by these experiences!
The following day, most chose to relax at the camp, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and
enjoying the company of the elephants. Others went to explore Jaipur itself.
A Farewell to the Taj (Days 15-16)
Our final ride took us to Agra, where we enjoyed a farewell dinner with a stunning sunset
view of the Taj Mahal. The next morning, we visited the iconic Taj Mahal at sunrise,
witnessing its beauty in the soft morning light. It was a perfect end to our incredible journey.
This was a trip filled with memories of an unforgettable Royal Enfield adventure.
This trip was more than just a motorcycle tour; it was a journey through history, culture, and
breathtaking landscapes. The rumble of the Royal Enfield, the warmth of the Rajasthani
people, and the sheer beauty of the region will stay with me forever. If you're looking for an adventure that combines the thrill of riding with the magic of India, I highly recommend exploring Rajasthan on a Royal Enfield. You won't be disappointed.
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