Today we had a guided sightseeing tour of Delhi, starting in New Delhi, with its wide, tree lined avenues, beautifully kept roundabouts and the impressive architecture of the government buildings and embassies.
This was followed by a visit to the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. We had to leave our shoes outside.
Following this we took a rickshaw ride through the streets of Old Delhi. It was chaotic, and slightly nerve wracking but fascinating.
Safely back on the coach, we drove to see Gandhi’s memorial sight where an eternal flame burns.
We then visited Humayun’s Tomb. He was the second Mughal Emperor. It was built for him, by his wife, in 1569. Set in beautiful, symmetrical gardens, it was an oasis of calm.
Tired and hungry by now, we stopped at a hand knotted carpet emporium for a demonstration of carpet making and lunch! We had the best Samosas in all of India, according to our guide, Raj.
Finally, and most poignantly, we visited the site of Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination. We were able to visit the room in which he stayed, and follow in his final footsteps.
It has been a packed day, full of contrasts, a truly amazing experience.
Tomorrow we leave Delhi (for now) to travel by train to Agra.
Until then
Carol
Did anyone buy a carpet? Someone did on our trip!!
Yes,3 people did. About £1500!
My goodness, what a land of contrasts. So very interesting, you must be tired after today. Exciting day tomorrow too by the look of it.
Really enjoying your posts which I am forwarding to Dad. Sounds like you are having a wonderful time and you always take such good photos. X
Thank you. Glad you are enjoying it.
Hi Carol and Andy,
I am sitting at home (alone for once!) and enjoying looking through your photos from the last few days. You have seen so much.
I love looking at the images of the different buildings and seeing glimpses of every day life in India. The palaces are simply stunning.
Well done on getting a nice photo at the Taj Mahal – your white top really compliments the white marble behind you. At first though, I thought that Andy was giving you a piggy back!
I am surprised that Andy didn’t want to cycle you around on the rickshaw all by himself!!
Years ago , we were on a rickshaw in Malaysia, it had fairy lights and a radio strapped to it. I think they were supposed to distract us from the scary road conditions – but it didn’t work and I was very relieved to get off! It took us a long time to get the driver’s attention as it was so noisy.
How wonderful to go on two safari’s, the animals , especially the tiger, are so amazing.
Maybe you can get “carpet knotting/making” into one of your craft sessions this year – much cheaper.
Anyway, I am so pleased that you are having a super time and it is making me want to visit India myself some time.
Keep safe,
Love Ruth xxxx
So glad you are enjoying the posts. We are having a great time. Sad that we are getting so close to the end of the trip.