Located in the Indian state of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is a vibrant city that is known for its iconic blue-painted houses and its 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort.

Surrounding the city is the magnificent Thar Desert, also known as the “Great Indian Desert”, and this arid landscape provides the ideal setting for a camel riding tour in Jodhpur.

The people of Rajasthan have been riding camels for centuries, so your camel-riding excursion is guaranteed to be an authentic and interesting local experience.

Here's all you need to know about camel riding, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Jodhpur.

What are the best camel riding tours in Jodhpur?

Camel safari tour in Jodhpur

Get out of the hustle and bustle of the city when you take a day trip from Jodhpur to Osian. Not only will you enjoy a sunset camel ride in the Thar Desert, but you’ll also get to see various temples and memorials along the way.

Before your camel ride commences, your professional guide will take you to visit the town of Mandore where you’ll see the ancient Sachiya Mata Temple, which holds special cultural significance.

This tour is ideal if you want to gain insight into Rajasthan culture and tradition in addition to enjoying a relaxing camel ride in the desert.

Full-day private tour and camel safari in Jodhpur

Explore the stunning city of Jodhpur before heading out into the desert. In Jodhpur, your private guide will take you to culturally-significant monuments, such as Jaswant Thada and Mehrangarh Fort.

The next thing on the itinerary is to get out of the city and drive towards the desert, where you’ll experience a camel safari in Osian. You’ll enjoy approximately 1.5 hours in the Thar Desert on the back of a camel.

The private camel ride takes place at sunset, which provides magnificent views of the Great Desert of India.

Overnight stay in Thar Desert with camel safari

Once you’ve been picked up from your hotel by your professional guide you’ll head towards Osian where you’ll sightsee and visit the ancient Sachiya Mata Temple.

The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the sunset camel ride in the Thar Desert. After your camel ride, you’ll make your way toward your homestay for the night where you will enjoy delicious local food and a peaceful night’s sleep.

Make the most of your time in Rajasthan by getting out of the city and experiencing local life in the desert.

How much does it cost?

A basic camel riding tour in Jodhpur costs roughly US$30 per person. These types of tours are usually around 6 hours and include a handful of stop-offs on your way to the desert from Jodhpur.

Private, full-day tours cost around US$60, and these tours provide you with a longer itinerary and a more comprehensive experience. You’ll get to visit more places of interest and have more time to enjoy the desert.

Overnight camel safari tours cost anywhere between US$60 and US$90 per person depending on whether you join a group tour or book a private tour for just you and your travel companions.

What is included?

Camel riding tours in Jodhpur include a hotel pickup and drop-off service. You’ll be driven between destinations by your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned vehicle. All fuel costs and entrance tickets are included in the cost of the tour.

Overnight camel safaris are inclusive of your accommodation, as well as dinner and breakfast. Day trips do not usually include any meals, although some do include lunch.

Where does it start?

When you book a camel riding tour in Jodhpur, you can choose whether you are picked up from your hotel, the airport or a railway station. You also have the option of meeting at the tour operator’s offices.

The camel ride itself usually begins in the Thar Desert, around 60 kilometers outside of Jodhpur.

How long does it last?

When you participate in a camel riding tour in Jodhpur, you can expect that the entire excursion will last at least 4 hours. There are many 6-hour tours available, as well as full-day tours and overnight camel safaris.

When is the best time for a camel riding tour in Jodhpur?

The best time for a camel riding tour is in the evening around sunset as the sunset views over the Thar Desert are unparalleled. Most tours aim for the camel riding portion of your tour to take place at sunset for this reason.

Book your camel riding tour for the beginning of your stay in Jodhpur as the tour will provide you with insight into local history and culture, and you’ll get the opportunity to ask your guide any questions that you may have about the city.

Are there any combo available?

Overnight stay in a Swiss tent with camel safari and folk dancing

See Jodhpur from a different perspective when you participate in an overnight camel safari. You’ll enjoy dinner, breakfast and tented accommodation in the desert, which you will travel to on the back of a camel.

Take in the picturesque views of the desert and sunset before you are treated to a traditional Rajasthani folk dance. This overnight tour makes for an unforgettable experience.

Camel riding and Jeep safari tour

Experience the serenity of riding a camel through the Thar Desert as well as the adrenaline and excitement of a Jeep safari tour all in one day!

Once the tour’s main activities are over, you’ll enjoy a local dinner at a rooftop restaurant before you are dropped back at your accommodation in Jodhpur.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Jodhpur?

Travel tips

Protect yourself from the harsh desert sun by wearing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for your camel-riding excursion.
Book your camel riding tour in Jodhpur ahead of time to secure your spot.
Bring your camera as you’ll experience incredible views over the desert.

Camel Riding in Jodhpur