#qutab minar

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Harri's Travel Photography // Qutab Minar // New Delhi, India // March 2018

www.adamrharrison.com

[forgotten-bharat]

Qutab Minar, New Delhi.

Qutab Minar or “Tower of Victory” 73 m-high tower of victory was built-in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque was the first mosque was built next to it.

Mughal Architecture are famous world wide, but are those really Mughal architecture or stolen pieces from the indigenous people that lived there, that were subjected to slavery and unspeakable tyranny?

Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque was built by pieces and carvings of 27 destroyed Hindu temples, as it is stated clearly below -

As it is a known fact that Mughals destroyed approximately 40,000 Hindu and Jain temples during their ~300 years of invasion in India.

There are many deities in the complex that are placed in the most disrespectful way. It is not a doubt that this complex, the minar especially was to mock the Hindus that it belonged to. There is carvings of Cows, a holy and sacred animal in Hinduism, that can be seen in many Hindu temples to this day, but not in any mosque whatsoever.

According to Islam, The bell being instrument of Satan, yet there are carvings on pillars of Bells - an instrument that is widely and always used in Hindu Practices.

There are Brahmi and Sanskrit inscriptions found in various spots in the pillar and around the complex.

So what Exactly was Qutab Minar.

The township adjoining the Kutub Minar is known as Mehrauli. That is a Sanskrit word Mihira-awali. It signifies the town- ship where the well known astronomer Mihira of Vikramaditya's court lived along with his helpers, mathematicians and technicians. They used the so-called Kutub tower as an observation post for astronomical study. Around the tower were pavilions dedicated to the 27 constellations of the Hindu Zodiac.

The Hindu title of the tower was Vishnu Dhwaj (i.e. Vishnu’s standard) alias Vishnu Stambh alias Dhruv Stambh (i.e., a polar pillar) obviously connoting an astronomical observation tower.

The Sanskrit inscription in Brahmi script on the non-rusting iron pillar close by proclaims that the lofty standard of Vishnu was raised on the hillock named Vishnupad Giri. That description indicates that a statue of the reclining Vishnu initiating the creation was consecrated in the central shrine there which was ravaged by Mohammad Ghori and his henchman Qutubuddin.

Presence of lotus flowers on the minar’s inscriptions. Lotus flowers do not feature in any Islamic structures of that era. Lotus flower buds have been covered with verses from the Quran. Lotus flowers if we observe are seen in Hindu temples.

Know your history.

धर्मो रक्षति रक्षितः

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QUTAB MINAR - INDIA

[wanderlustjennifer]

Qutab Minar in Delhi, India

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Delhi Day 3, Lotus Temple, Qutab Minar, Red Fort

Today we decided to hire a car and a driver for the day from our hotel, as we have found that when travelling in India and you plan to visit a few tourist sites in a day this a far better option than getting individual taxis or Tuk Tuk’s around the various places of interest and at 1600 INR for the day around £16 pounds it was good value. You will probably find that you could get a taxi off the…

[thisdrinkinglife]

Qutab Minar: It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Mehrauli area of South Delhi, India. It is one of the most visited tourist spots in the city, mostly built between 1199 and 1220

[along-the-silkroad]

Detail of Delhi's Victory Tower, Ghurid, early 13th century. The Qutb Minar—also spelled Qutub or Qutab Minar—is a towering minaret and victory monument that forms part of the Qutb complex, located on the site of Delhi's oldest fortified city, Lal Kot, established by the Tomar Rajputs. Situated in the Mehrauli area of South Delhi, India, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began around 1199 and continued until 1220, resulting in a structure with 399 steps that remains one of Delhi's most visited heritage landmarks. The tower's construction was initiated by Qutb-ud-din Aibak following his victory over Prithviraj Chauhan, the last Hindu ruler of Delhi before the Ghurid conquest, symbolizing the start of Islamic rule in the region. Aibak completed only the first level, with subsequent rulers of the Delhi Sultanate continuing the work. In 1368, Firuz Shah Tughlaq reconstructed the upper sections and added a cupola.

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Qutab Minar New Delhi India 🙏

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Qutab Minar Delhi India

[bright-holidays]

7 UNESCO Heritage Sites of India by Bright Holidays

Introduction:

India is a country with a lot of different cultures, a long and interesting history, and beautiful natural scenery. It has many places that tourists from all over the world find interesting. Whether it’s amazing buildings or places of worship, India’s tourist spots provide a wide range of experiences. Here, Bright Holidays presents a curated list of seven UNESCO World Heritage sites that encapsulate India’s unique charm.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites of India:

1. Taj Mahal:

Undoubtedly one of the most iconic symbols of India, the Taj Mahal stands as a testament to eternal love. Located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, this pristine white marble mausoleum was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Its intricate architecture, intricate carvings, and the mesmerizing play of light during sunrise and sunset make the Taj Mahal a must-visit destination for any traveller.

2. Red Fort:

Situated in the heart of Delhi, the Red Fort, or Lal Qila, is a historic fortress that served as the main residence for Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. Constructed using red sandstone, the fort is a remarkable blend of Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles. The Red Fort hosts the annual Independence Day celebrations of India on August 15th.

3. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park:

Located in Gujarat, this UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses the archaeological remnants of a medieval capital and the hill fortress of Pavagadh. Recognized in 2004, it showcases a harmonious blend of Hindu-Muslim architecture and culture. Highlights include the Jami Masjid and intricately carved temples on Pavagadh Hill, offering a glimpse into the historical and cultural significance of this unique site.

4. Qutab Minar:

Delhi, with its rich history, is home to the Qutab Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world. Built-in the 12th century, the Qutab Minar complex includes various historical structures and ruins, such as the Iron Pillar of Delhi. The intricate carvings on the minaret narrate the history of its construction and the dynasties that ruled over Delhi.

5. Konark Sun Temple:

Located in the state of Odisha, the Konark Sun Temple is a mesmerizing architectural marvel dedicated to the sun god Surya. Built in the 13th century, the temple is renowned for its intricate stone carvings that depict scenes from daily life, mythology, and the celestial world. The temple’s chariot-shaped design and the precision of its artwork make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6. Ajanta Caves:

The Ajanta Caves, located in India, are a fascinating historical site with a lot to offer. These caves are known for their ancient rock-cut architecture and beautiful paintings that depict scenes from the life of Buddha. Visiting the Ajanta Caves provides a unique and captivating experience, allowing you to explore the rich cultural and artistic heritage of India.

7. Ellora Caves:

In the western state of Maharashtra, the Ellora Caves comprise a series of rock-cut temples representing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. Carved between the 6th and 10th centuries, the caves showcase the artistic and architectural prowess of ancient India. The Kailasa Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a highlight, featuring a monolithic structure carved from a single piece of rock.

Conclusion:

Embark on a journey through these seven iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each narrating a unique story of India’s history, cultural diversity, and architectural brilliance. As you explore the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Golden Temple, Qutab Minar, Konark Sun Temple, Ajanta Caves, and Ellora Caves, witness the timeless beauty that invites you to discover the magic within India’s borders. Bright Holidays invites you to embrace the richness of India’s past and present, offering a profound and unforgettable travel experience amidst these UNESCO treasures.

About Us:

Bright Holidays proudly holds the title of the best tour and travel agency in Ahmedabad, offering unparalleled travel experiences that cater to your every wanderlust desire. Whether you’re dreaming of international adventures, exploring captivating domestic destinations, or seeking personalized travel itineraries, our dedicated team is committed to creating seamless, remarkable journeys that transform your dreams into unforgettable memories.

[nuinindia2023]

Day 27: Delhi Day One!

Today marks our first day in Delhi! We had an amazing breakfast to start off the day with everyone absolutely loving the croissants. Here is a snippet of what our plates looked like.

Then, we hopped on the bus and were on our way by 9:10!! The guide was phenomenal and gave us a wonderful insight into Humayan’s tomb which was the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. I had no idea of its existence until today.

Our first reaction upon entering was “Wow it’s so quiet and peaceful in here” so of course, in about 30 minutes, hundreds of school girls and boys came running in and flooding the area. They almost seemed never-ending. The little children almost seemed more excited to see us than the monument itself.

Followed by the tomb, we got the chance to enter a Sikh temple. It was such a unique experience to learn more about the religion and see how people mediate and pray among the temple. We even saw the food area where the temple feeds thousands of people daily. Teddy and I even got the chance to roll some rotis!!

After the Sikh temple and the Delhi heat, everyone was STARVED, so we ran to get food and rest before our 6:30 meet for dinner. Once eating and resting, we all met downstairs and split up into various Ubers and autos to meet at the largest standing stone statue-- the Qutab Minar. But the moment we got there, we felt little trickles of rain that we dismissed. Guess what, by the time everyone got there it was absolutely pouring. After waiting there under a tent for about an hour and singing our hearts out to some Taylor Swift, and other artists, we decided to make a run for it in the pouring rain.

Once soaked, we hopped into autos and headed to the restaurant. A nice AC room sounds great while being soaking wet, right? So as we waited in this fancy restaurant for our food, we all tried to dry ourselves off. Finn even had an extra shirt handy!!

After two hours and a very intriguing 10 course dinner, we all headed back to the hotel to go to bed and prepare for our last day on the dialogue :(

Anyways, here’s to hoping we all don’t get sick as most of us depart from India. Signing off! See you tomorrow for our last and final day of the dialogue and this blog!

(pictures incoming due to technical difficulties!)

[mytravelblueprint]

5 Places to visit in Delhi with Family

Delhi is a great mix of heritage and modernity. It is one of the busiest international gateways in India. Exploring Delhi with family is definitely gonna fun. Here, I recommend a day of Delhi sightseeing tour. Top 5 places you can easily visit in one day with family

Qutab Minar:-  It is one of the historical place in India, situated in New Delhi and visited most by tourist circle. It is made from red sandstone & marble. It attracts thousands of tourists every day.

Lotus Temple:-  Located in New Delhi, Lotus Temple is famous for its delicate flower-like structure. It is a house of worship for Bahai’s nine sides and one central dome constructed with white concrete and marble. Lotus temple is surrounded by 9 pools of water that give an attractive look of flowers just blooming from the deep of water.

Akshardham Temple:-  Akshardham Temple is the largest Hindu temple in India and is a major tourist destination of India. The temple devoted to Swami Narayan has many deity idols, such as Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and goddess Laxmi.

Raj Ghat:-  Raj Ghat is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the Nation. It is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River. Raj Ghat is a black marble platform that is a spot for Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation.

India Gate: - India Gate situated in the heart of Delhi is dedicated to the 90,000 soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War 1. It is a very popular tourist spot for Delhites as well as foreigners for its tall appearance and carved INDIA GATE on top of the stone arch

#delhisightsingtour #familytour

#top5places #beautyofdelhi

[kuswah]

Golden Triangle Tour with Mumbai: A Journey Through India's Heritage and Glamour

India is a land of varied cultures, distinct past and scenic beauty. Golden Triangle tour: Delhi-Agra-Jaipur are the most sought after travel circuits in India. This tour is a short story of India's historical and architectural legacy. Mumbai and financial capital of Bollywood make this experience even more exciting. The Golden Triangle Tour with Mumbai is best of both history and culture, making it a perfect holiday if you want to imbibe multi aspect of an Indian flavor.

Delhi- History meets Modernity

In Delhi, the capital of India where history meets modernity As the journey starts in Delhi, the capital and gives a make up of the entire nation. It is a real paradise in terms of number of historical monuments, vibrant markets, and scrumptious street foods. Tourists can see Red Fort magnificence, Humayun's Tomb peace and Qutab Minar architecture. India History In A Visit to India Gate followed by the Rashtrapati Bhavan gives you a second; the colonial and political! For foodies and shoppers, Chandni Chowk is a cornucopia of chaos Delhi… is one of the very interesting beginnings to start your Golden Triangle Tour from amalgamation old and new.

Agra: The Pillars Of Majestic Taj Mahal

Following it is Agra the city which for one of the Seven wonders of the world, Taj Mahal. This simply gorgeous structure, conceived by Emperor Shah Jahan in remembrance of his much beloved queen , is a testimony of true love eternal. A large part of both the Taj Mahal and within Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri shows you a little taste of the Mughal era grandeur/architectural skill. Scour Agra for handicrafts, marble items and spoils of fashion from the bustling markets where you can shop for leather goods too. Guests love this tour so much that the city rich history and importance as a cultural hotspot makes it an important highlight.

Jaipur-The Royal City of Rajasthan

The way from Agra, the capital of Rajasthan that is called the Pink City headed to Jaipur. Jaipur, the city of the royal palaces and grandest forts filled with life. The high hills of Amber Fort with it's beautiful architecture will offer breathtaking views and an insight into Rajput grandeur. Jaipur City-Palace and Hawa Mahal as well Jantar Mantar denote its heritage,artistry. Jaipur (The Bazaars): Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are some of the liveliest markets to peruse for traditional Rajasthani Jewellery, Textiles and Handicrafts.

A trip to Jaipur is a trip down the corridors of India's royal past.

Mumbai: The City of Dreams

Incorporating Mumbai in to the Golden Triangle Tour offers a refreshing change from the already planned tour. India's financial hub, Mumbai is an all night burning city. People flock from all over to experience Bollywood — the melting pot of Indian film making system and lives that are made in a very colonial architecture modern skyscraper style coastal beauty As you can the Gateway of India, Marine drive and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus make you understand about the earlier history of Mumbai and how it was colonised. From exploring haunting markets, indulging in the local delicacies like Vada Pav to experiencing the burgeoning culture of Bollywood's studios brings an urban adventure into the trip.

End of the tour with a beach dinner at Juhu or a cruise to the Elephanta Caves, and sunset is always a great way to end.

Conclusion: The Both Herism And Future

India Golden Triangle with Mumbai is a blend of ancient and recent years' India along with festival life. This package from Delhi to Agra, Jaipur and Mumbai will not you with unforgettable memories and fun of historical monuments. If you are a die-hard history buff or just want to explore some city please come, this is a journey you must not miss as you will walk off with a strong mixture of tradition with modern slow feet.

[wgm-beautiful-world]

QUTUB MINAR - INDIA

[luxuryindiaprivatetours]

Explore the Best of India with the perfect package.

India is the land of rich history, varied culture, and absolutely breathtaking landscapes, offering the traveler a unique experience. Whether it's the ancient southern temple or the majestic Himalayas in the north, every nook and corner of the country speaks of a story. One could either choose to walk the busy streets of Delhi, relax on the beaches of Goa, or be in awe of the intricacies of architecture in Rajasthan - India would have something for every kind of traveler.

Perhaps the most well-known tour around India, Golden Triangle Tourlinks up the old historic cities to provide an understanding of the grand cultural and architectural heritage of this nation.

What is the Golden Triangle Tour?

The Golden Triangle connects three of northern India’s most famous cities- Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur- and forms a triangular circuit on the map. Each city offers a distinct flavor of India’s history, architecture, and culture. A typical Golden Triangle tour lasts 5 to 7 days, covering iconic landmarks, vibrant markets, and rich cultural experiences.

Key Highlights of the Golden Triangle:

Delhi: A Blend of Old and New

It happens to be a capital city-ancient Mughal architectural heritage blending exquisitely with modern urbane life: From the grand vistas of Red Fort to the promenade of broad avenues, and later getting lost in the labyrinthian alleys of Chandni Chowk-see Qutab Minar, though being a bad site now for traffic and bad traffic.

Agra: The City of Love.

Known as the city of love and grandeur, Agra is a city that carries stories of romance. The Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri give insight into the mastery of architecture by the Mughal era. A luxury golden triangle tour packageoffers exclusive experiences such as viewing the Taj Mahal at sunset or taking private guided tours to view its intricate marble carvings.

Jaipur: The Royal Pink City

The legacy of the king and the royal tradition, together with the warmth of Rajasthani culture will find its denouement at Jaipur. Take a ride to Amber Fort, marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of Hawa Mahal or go through the massive City Palace. A Golden Triangle private tour gives you the flexibility to experience events such as enjoying palace dining or looking for markets of artisans specializing in Jaipur at your pace.

Why Luxury India Private Tours?

We at Luxury India Private Tours believe that traveling is beyond mere sightseeing. It has to be an immersed cultural experience. And this is precisely why our Golden Triangle Tour Packages give you the best: 

Personalized Itinerary: Be it a group tour of Golden Triangle or a private tour, our itinerary caters to your interest, pace, and preference.

Luxe Hotels: Be residing in individually curated five-star heritage palaces and/or boutique hotels featuring world-class accommodations and services.

Transportation: Travel in comfort while being taken care of in a private, air-conditioned vehicle by professional chauffeurs who guarantee you a hassle-free and stress-free journey.

Exclusive Experiences: Private cultural performances, gourmet dining under the stars, and much more for a memorable experience.

Types of Golden Triangle Tours We Offer:

Golden Triangle Group Tour

The group tour is suitable for the social traveler who likes to explore with other people. Our group tours are planned in such a way that it gives a balance between guided activities and leisure time. The group tour is ideal for solo travelers, friends, and families who wish to share their experiences.

Golden Triangle Private Tour

This package is perfect for those who need a more secluded and flexible stay. With the private tour, you can tailor your stay from spending more time at historical places to shopping around in local markets, or just being pampered by staying in luxury hotels.

Luxury Golden Triangle Tour Package

Designed for discerning travelers, this luxury package encompasses the best in accommodation, dining, and experiences. Heritage stays, private guides, and chauffeurs will characterize an indulgent exploration of India’s Golden Triangle with this package.

Travel Tips for the Golden Triangle Tour:

Best Season to Visit: October to March is the time when the entire region is pleasing for sightseeing in the weather.

Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly, especially on religious sites, with respect to locals’ customs. 

What to Pack: Some essentials include walkable shoes and light clothing, as well as carrying sunscreen and sunglasses.

Local Cuisines: Regional Delicacies Don’t forget to try out street food at Delhi, Petha from Agra, and Dal Baati Churma in Jaipur.

Conclusion

The travel on Golden Triangle is one of the most interesting tours of the vast history, unique culture, and architectural wonders of India. Luxury India Private Tours will offer you this great route in the most comfortable and customized way possible. Expect a silky, smooth journey with or for the family or group, with all the luxury, culture, and adventure that you expect in our carefully designed Golden Triangle Tour Packages.

Board this unforgettable trip, and let’s take you to the wonders of India’s Golden Triangle!

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Exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the Golden Triangle Tour

How to Avoid Tourist Scams on the Golden Triangle Tour

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Day 82 - 26 November - Delhi

We went to get a rickshaw from our hotel to Huymayun’s Tomb which I hadn’t been to before and was exited to see. Walking to the places the tuktuks were we saw our first cow walking down street which was interesting. There was lots of rubbish being collected with a dumper truck and put into a rubbish lorry which we safely scooted around the edge of. We were ready to haggle or the rickshaw but he offered our price so we just took it (evidently need to recalibrate).

The tomb was classic Mughal style in the red sandstone that the Red Fort and Fetehpur Sikri is built in and has the same type of dimensions and symmetry of other Mughal monuments like the Taj. There were loads of Kites flying around in big flocks, they are much bigger than the Red Kites that you see in the UK. We then went to the Sunder Nursery that were beside the tomb and walked around. We had a really nice dosa each and a chai in the cafe in the nursery. We then walked around the bits that we hadn’t gone to yet. We bought a drink and I had a Limca which was great till I took a sip and felt a bee in my mouth that had obviously gone into the can to have a drink. Luckily i felt it before it stung me and was able to spit it out before any damage was done.

There was then a museum for Hymayun’s Tomb which had been part funded by the Aga Khan whose face was plastered up so much you would have thought he was a BJP politician. The museum was actually pretty good although I though it was slightly interesting that they really focused on Hymayun as the hero and main character of the whole museum as it spoke though the whole Mughal period and there was only passing reference to Akbar who was probably the most consequential Mughal ruler, although I did later listen to the new series of Empire that is speaking about the Mughals, which explores Humayun in more light than I’d heard before so maybe this museum is part of his resurgence in relevance. I am not sure if there is a separate Mughal museum. It also surprised me that there was such a positive light shown to the Mughals considering the political situation currently, where the Mughal history of India is subject of political battles.

After that we went to the Lodi Gardens which are these nice gardens with the tombs of the Lodi sultans of Delhi. It was quite atmospheric! After that we got a tuk tuk to the Sikh temple although lots of roads seemed to be closed. The temple was nice and it was quite like the Golden Temple that I had been to before but was a bit more stressful in terms of people hurrying us around and telling us to sit down in the temple proper which is fair enough. The temple isn’t in the water like in Amritsar but beside it.

We then walked to a restaurant in Connaught Place that was actually quite fancy called Kwality. We had a palak paneer, china masala, this delish banana and peanut fritter. We then walked home.

Day 83 - 27 November - Delhi > Jaipur

We got up and checked out but left our bags at the hotel. We took a tuk tuk down to the qutab minar which was about a 50 min ride south. The complex was really nice and had an amazing minaret and the remains of one of the oldest mosques in India. it also had this strange iron pillar that had been brought there from somewhere else that basically hasn’t rusted in over 1000 years and shows wrought iron technology that wasn’t seen anywhere else till the 19th century (so they say). It gave monolith from 2001 vibes!

We then walked down to archaeological walk which was maybe 10 mins away and has old tombs and stepwells and the like. we had a very poor lunch which was actually quite expensive. A grilled veg sandwich was a toasted sandwich with cucumber and lettuce and too much mayo in it. The chips were also reheated (they didn’t offer Indian food). It was so bad I left as poor google review which up to that point had been 5 star!

We walked round the park but it was a was a bit random and not many people were there. It didn’t seem to be kept as well compared to the Lodi Gardens and Sundar Nursery. There were a few dogs around and quite a lot of rubbish. Walking down an empty path there was a strange animal sound that made me jump! Turned out to be a pig not the leopard that my lizard brain had gone straight to! We went to the stepwell which was interesting but then decided to leave and go back to the city.

We got a tuk tuk with some guy and then another guy got on to the front seat with him and tried to get us to go to his bazar for a look, which we politely declined. It dropped us off at the wrong side of Delhi station for our hotel, so we had to walk across the platforms in New Delhi station which very hectic! We got our bags and looked to get an Uber to our station which was annoyingly not the main one which we were right beside.

The Ubers didn’t come so we got a tricycle rickshaw to the station which was was quite mad driving through busy streets. I was sitting backwards so couldn’t see what was happening and just saw what happened as it came past. There were lots of very pretty cows who had had their heads painted.

We got to the station waited got on the train which was in the platform to allow us on. We then got on and settled down. We had ordered some food that arrived in Gurgaun station which was a really tasty

thali! We then got to Jaipur station and got an Uber to the apartment which was above an art studio and was really nice and spacious especially compared to our hotel room that had been windowless!

Day 84 - 28 November - Jaipur

We got up had a chai in the apartment what the host made for us which was nice.

We then went for nice rooftop breakfast in a place that was recommended. It was very nice and we had a veda pav and sprouted mung beans and some delicious chickpeas.

We then looked at some shops in the C-scheme area. Jaipur is famous for block prints and fabrics so we are gonna spend a good bit of time looking through shops and warehouses as we have both been here before. We are looking for things like table clothes and sheets etc. We went to a few clothes shops, and then looked for some jewlery shops for chain for Nina. We didn’t really buy anything as there is so much and we wanted to scout out before doing any buying.

We went to dinner in a place called Thali and More which was was okay but probably not our best meal in India. That being said it was very tasty! We came back to the apartment and walked down a big road to the alcohol shop to buy a couple of beers which felt quite illicit due to the fact these shops had people drinking outside them and are mainly just counters with beer and spirits behind them, making them look quite unofficial. We then watched Jason Borne and went to bed.

Day 85 - 29 November - Jaipur

We had breakfast in this quite well known place near the main palace called Laxmi Misthan Bandar. I had a sabji and puri, and a delicious lassi. We then looked at some clothes shops in and around the main palace area though there wasn’t very much we wanted. We then walked to this Indian antique shop painting shop, which had lots of miniatures and prints that were interesting. They gave us some chai (basically the key to heart) The sun of the owner took us to the roof, from which you could see the whole town.

We went then to a textile wholesaler called Heritage Textiles and looked at the different fabrics and blankets and the like all with the block prints. This shop had a tailors attached so I picked a linen fabric and got them to copy out one of the shirts I have with me that is pretty worn but which I really like. We then went to this other wholesaler called Ridhi Sidhi textiles. We thought it was just a small shop but then we were taken into their warehouse in the other side of the road which was huge! There was lots of stuff and having been around lots of different places we were quite tired and hadn’t bought anything as we needed to take stock. We had dinner in another thali place and then Watched The WorldI Is Not Enough before going to bed.

Day 86 - 30 November - Jaipur

Had breakfast at a place called Masala Chouk which was a great street food market and we had a delish dosa and chola batura some chais and lassis. We then to a tuk tuk to this pottery shop for Jaipur blue pottery. The pottery was nice although thinking about how to carry it hampered any buying potential. We spoke to the owner who said that Nin reminded him of his daughter, and said I was curious and serious! We then walked to an antique shop and then to another antique shop that had another building out the back and a clothes wholesaler. I was looking at more miniature paintings which I have really loved since my Indian art and architecture course in second year.

We then went to another clothes wholesaler called Surestra Impex which was like lots of the other ones but actually pretty expensive compared to the others! There seem to be lots of fashion buyers here looking to buy wholesale, this one said that they sold to Toast in the UK! I then picked up my shirt which was really well done! So much so that Nin got a suit made in linen so was all measured up by a talor!

We then went to this rooftop restaurant by our new apartment which was really nice, although very catering to the tourist market and there wasn’t really much Indian food, although we did get the Indian stuff. We had paneer tikka toastadas, I had malai kofta, pistachio Ice cream. We then watched Goldeneye continuing our spy film week!

Day 87 - 1 December - Jaipur

With it being Sunday, lots of things were closed but we went to a few things that we could. We went back to Anokhi which was quite close to our new apartment. After that we had breakfast in a fast Indian food joint which was okay, not our best breakfast but was okay.

We then went to a few jewlery shops to get a chain for Nina and then Nin also got some new glasses as she only had one main pair! We then had a drink on rooftop bar and were the only people there. We saw lots of kites being flown from the rooftops, which was quite picturesque.

We then got a tuk tuk to the fort for sunset over Jaipur but it was quite a long ride and when we got there we had to keep running and got told it was just a bit further on! We just missed sunset but still had the dusky view! We quickly walked around the palace in the fort. Some random guy asked it I could take some pics of him and his mates on my camera and whatsapp them to him. Which was all good fun but i had to extricate myself from the situation. The tuk tuk was quite long as there was lots of traffic. We then picked up our clothes (my second shirt and Nina’s suite which was made in a day!)

We had dinner in this place called Cafe Kothi which was supposed to have a really good thali but apparently we had to request it 3 hours before which we didn’t do so we had masala omelettes and then went back to bed.

Day 88 - 2 December - Jaipur

We had a breakfast chai and samosa in a bun in this delish chai walla called Gulabji Chaiwalla which was really tasty. We then got a tuk tuk to Ridhi Sidhi to actually do some buying of textiles after all our looking! We saw a big BJP Land Cruiser driving round with a flag on the front of it. There are lots of BJP flags dotted around in different lamp posts and stuff which I don’t remember the last time I was here. We went to Ridhi Sidhi and spent quite a lot of time sorting through stuff and going to the different floors. We then went to a couple of other places and then picked up a necklace that Nin had had polished.

We had dinner in another rooftop places near our apartment but this one had more Indian food, it was also very tasty but we were basically the only people in the restaurant in a throwback to some of the previous places we have been to. We watched the Borne Legacy.

Day 89 - 3 December - Jaipur > Udaipur

Woke up and packed and walked up to the station where there was supposed to be a post office, to send stuff back to the UK. The post office looked very closed to went to another one close by, the whole experience was pretty seamless so hopefully the actual sending will be too!

We then walked to place we had breakfast the day before and had a double round of chai and samosa sandos, before picking our stuff up and getting to the station. I got a copy of Outlook on the platform, which is a magazine I read the last time I was here and used in university which is fairly decent. The train was quite long but we ordered some food to be picked up at stations along the way which is a thing that should definitely come to Europe! We watched the Borne Supremacy as we continue to watch the Borne films backwards!