Our introduction to camels began at what I think might be originally the polo ground, with the Camel Decorations Competition. Basically putting as much bling as possible on a camel However, after the competition ended, the judging panel announced the three winners, but the third placed owner got very agitated and “appealed the decision”. This …
Woke early to sounds of horns tooting, and cows mooing in centre of town Revived by two pots of coffee and bowls of yoghurt and fruit (and Nutella and banana pancakes) Our accommodation for the next 5 days… Now off out to explore…and out to the market No photos though of when I turned round …
Not that much to report today, just train journey across small part of India… We’re in 1st class chairs, which are full but reasonably comfy but 2nd class crammed in just as you’d imagine Men wandering up and down train with buckets of drinks, urns of chai, and all sorts of low carb snacks!!! At …
Early morning visit to Taj Mahal, (photos unfortunately suffer from the permanent haze presently). Clearly despite the haze, amazing place, architecture and views. What else to say? went in search of lunch… The Oberoi for lunch in case you wondered, excellent buffet type selection of classic Indian (and international) dishes. Highlights, chicken curry – flavoursome …
After a long overnight train journey in 1st Class A/C we arrived rather weary in Agra, and after dumping bags at the excellent Aman Homestay, went for a welcome brunch at “Good Vibes Cafe” nearby, for banana pancakes, egg on toast and generous Peanut Butter on toast, with gallons of coffee, lime soda and Mango …
A gentle morning, coffee and an “interesting” cheese sandwich” then the Virtual Sikh History museum/tour beneath Golden Temple entrance, impressive AV displays More photo ops, for locals. Gary worked out defence for touts selling temple headscarves “no thanks but would you like to buy mine back!” Gary also got his trousers repaired for princely sum …
Today started with coffee part 1 (not great) and part 2 (good) then went off to the Langur Room by the golden temple). Largest free volunteer kitchen in the world and massive organisation! We went through and sat in parallel lines (allcomers mixed in together) and were served rice, 2 chappatis, lentil and chickpea dalhs, …
Took taxi to the Wagah border ceremony (more on taxi ride later) Missed the VIP area (as it was Dipavali, therefore packed out) but ended up right at the top of the purpose built half stadium which meant we got a Birds Eye view of everything rather than close up, but equally got the full …
After a simple breakfast at the hotel, went to Jallianwala Bagh gardens, site of 1919 massacre led by Dyer Then in evening back to Golden Temple, which was packed due to it being Diwali today Sikhs believe circulation one round of the temple will bring them blessing very calm albeit noisy atmosphere and multiple times …
We arrived at 3am so only got up at midday for “breakfast”… Then the Partition Museum, sobering amount of migration across arbitrary borders, and untold mortality… Then onto Golden temple as sunset arrived. Sally and I got mobbed for some reason (film star looks?) for group photos For supper… after bone shaking TukTuk ride across …