Just returned from a 3-day car journey to Jaipur, the "Pink City". Much of this city goes back to the 1200's in the time of mughals. Grand forts and palaces still remain among the wall-to-wall peddlars, tuk-tuks, camels and scooters. Some of the highlights included riding an elephant up to the Amber Fort, shopping for textiles and bangles, and exploring the Monkey Temple overun by 1,000's of monkeys held sacred by an ancient Hindi sect. The temple is still an active place for holy men, some of whom live in caves, and worshippers arriving each day to bathe in the holy ponds.
Our hired drivers were amazing. There are no rules when driving. You simply fill a space. When there is a traffic jam you cross over to the other side and drive in the oncoming lane. Cows deciding to nap in the middle of the road or a truck filled with 30 beautifully saried women going to a festival are common sights. Oh, and don't forget the camel driven carts amidst scooters rushing by with whole families squeezed together, mom clutching a baby. No helmets of course.
My head is full but need to think about teaching tomorrow.
Thanks! I'm really enjoying!
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