What to say after one week in India? First of all, one week is obviously a drop in the ocean of time you would need to see/understand a country as vast and complex as India. My first few days were amazing; I saw birds, crazy wildlife, and got a taste of life in rural India. I saw the Taj Mahal, and witnessed an example of wonderful courage and kindness. I saw fantastic art in Delhi. Unfortunately, on my last day, I witnessed an act of violence that was shockingly casual, and perpetrated, I believe, for my eyes. At the time, I decided then that this would be my last visit to India. I know other people who love India, and tell me that what I saw was a very small part of a complex whole. I'm not sure their assurances will be enough for me to buy another ticket, though.
Chambal Lodge Safari
Somewhere to the south of Delhi. I came to India because a colleague raved about this place. It is about two hours (on very bad roads) from Agra (home of the Taj Mahal). It is located on the outskirts of a village, about a 45-minute drive from the Chambal River. I took a short jaunt by camel to the ruins of Fort Ater, a lovely boat-ride on the river, and a little hike through the nearby ravines.
Camel Ride
I first rode a camel in Egypt a few decades ago. It was a very frightening experience. I swore I would never get on a camel again. 'Never say never.' Camels are extremely strange-looking creatures, with their long necks, really long legs, and goofy huge feet. Getting on to a camel's back is scary. The camel kneels on the ground, you swing your leg over its wide back (when you have short legs it's a VERY long way). The camel then goes up on its back legs. Its very long legs. Which means that for a few terrifying moments, you're hanging on to a moving monster at a 90 degree angle, VERY far away from the ground. Then he lurches onto his front legs, and you're tipping backwards. A few more heaves, and he's up. And the ground is a long way down.
 |
| Meet Raju, my friend for a day |
|
|
|
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
