India, Part 2

We are on our way to Jaipur, and because I am always on time Mr Singh has a special treat in store for me. On the road to Jaipur is a place called Abhaneri and it is famous for the stepwell (Chand Baori) and the Harshat Mata Temple.

These wells were used as storage for drinking water and are a sight to behold.

We made it safely to Jaipur which is called “The Pink City” because most of its buildings are the colour of rich terracotta.
One outstanding example is the “Palace of the Winds”.  It is one of the prettiest buildings I have seen, front and back.

The back faces the street and the palace complex is so large, it even features a small lake.

A very impressive site is the Observatory which houses the world’s largest sun dial. And yes, I did read the time – correctly!
What I liked best in Jaipur were the markets. India is famous for its colours and now I could see why.

Our next stop was the Amber Fort where I had my elephant ride. It was not very comfortable, but better than walking up the steep hill.

The fort looks very ordinary from the outside, but the inside is very impressive indeed.

I had my encounter with fame at the Khimsar Fort. A Bollywood movie was being filmed here and when I stepped out of the elevator this gorgeous, and I mean gorgeous girl was waiting to come inside. She gave me the biggest smile, her eyes and face saying “Yes, it is me, aren’t you lucky” and all I said was “Hello” (does that sounds familiar somehow?) Anyway  I would not have known her from a bar of soap. But she was the star of the movie as I found out later.
The next stop was the adventure bit. I was going to stay overnight  in a desert camp. Mind you, this was a 5 star desert camp, but who is complaining.

When we arrived all was set out for us. White Mattresses with bolsters on the sand for us to recline on and watch the entertainment. Delicious savouries were served, it was sooo good.
With 7 very enthusiastic musicians and 2 dancing girls, I had a ball.

The Manvar Desert Camp was definitely a highlight of this tour.
Jodhpur and the Merangarh Fort was our next stop. The Fort is quite an impressive building set high up on a mountain, but nothing, nothing prepared me for its magnificence. It is made from pink sandstone and pictures speak louder than words.

The carvings look like delicate filigree work, I was captivated!

There is going to be a third instalment of my fantastic time in India.