If you really want an experience, go to Pushkar during its famous annual Camel Fair. Every October or November—depending on the lunar calendar—people flock here to see the finest camels parade around the fairground in colorful costumes. People come to buy, sell, and trade camels, and to race one camel against another. A good male camel goes for about US$250. The town gets packed during festival time, so make sure you reserve a room at least several weeks—if not longer—ahead of time. Several tented camps with modern conveniences also mushroom during the fair. Contact a travel agent for details. You could also directly ask the Pushkar Palace (Pushkar), the Balsamand Palace (Jodhpur), or Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) in Jaipur (141/220-2586 www.pushkar-camel-fair.com).
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