Camel ride, safari and much more: A trip to Rajasthan

By: Prachi Khandelwal

If the students of Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication (AIMC) had to describe the Jaisalmer-Longewala educational trip, it would be, “A deserted trip with not so deserted memories.” After months of hectic theory and practical classes, AIMC decided to organise a trip to Jaisalmer and Longewala in Rajasthan. This wasn’t an easy task for the faculty as they had to manage everything within a span of 15 days. But our teachers solved all the problems and demands of students in a minimal budget.

The trip began on 31st Jan at 5:00 pm as students and faculty members departed from the college campus. At first, everyone felt a little shy on the bus journey but as soon as the music started everyone was dancing to its tunes. Our first stop was the amazing and famous San Sand Dunes of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. We reached there at 12 pm. After resting, we met again for lunch. This was followed by the most awaited Jeep Safari and Camel Ride in the dunes.

The safari was fun! As we reached our destination i.e. Sam Sand Dunes, my eyes couldn’t believe that I was standing above the magnificent Thar Desert. Soon we rode the camels too.

The best part? We watched sun set! I took many pictures as well. Then, we returned to our accommodation and received a warm Rajasthani welcome with amazing Dhol beats and Tilak. The hotel also organised a cultural programme for us.

On the second day, my eyes were teary when I stood on the Longewala Border of the Thar Desert which is known for the Indo-Pak war. I watched a documentary with my classmates about the struggles of India in that battle. It hit right in the center of my heart and made me feel proud to be an Indian. We then departed for our next stop, Tanot Mata Temple, which is well-known in contemporary folklore.

The final day was about visiting the beautiful Jaisalmer Fort. So, after having breakfast, we left for the fort. I reached there and explored the interior, bits of sculpting, the rooms, and the exterior; everything was golden in colour. The mere view of the city from the top of the fort was drop-dead gorgeous and appealing. Then came the time when we had to bid goodbye to this graceful city. It hit us hard that the trip came to an end.