an inn in some Eastern countries with a large courtyard that provides accommodation for caravans

a stable with an associated inn where caravans could rest and recover from the day's journey

Eastern quadrangular inn with a central court where caravans may rest.

Caravanserai, released in October 1972, marked a major turning point in Carlos Santana's career as it was a sharp departure from his critically acclaimed first three albums. 1971 marked the departure of original bassist David Brown who was replaced by Doug Rauch and Tom Rutley. Keyboardist Gregg Rolie, who was having a falling-out with Santana, was replaced by Tom Coster on a few songs.