And what did we learn this time …

So we are home again from India and drawing this fabulous adventure to a close, apart from producing our photo album! The bags are unpacked, the washing is done and tomorrow we head back to normal life! And now it is time to sit back and reflect on our journey … our highlights, the must sees and must do’s and the things we learnt from visiting India.

1. India is a captivating country.

• The sights, sounds, feel and smell of India are very real. The smoggy air places a haze over the cities which can seem depressing, but it is the reality for India and something you come to expect and accept. When you leave the cities the air is clearer and crisper. The temples, palaces and forts are beautiful, intricate and filled with history. Marble is cold to touch, running your hand over the carved latticework and thinking about the craftsmen who made it hundreds of years ago reminds you that in a world of automation we need to treasure our artisans. The beeping of the horns from hundreds (thousands) of vehicles that share the road is deafening, and yet there is no road rage. The drivers all manage to negotiate the roads in a way that is incredibly chaotic, fair and respectful all at the same time. I had anticipated India to have an odour to it … but it didn’t. Instead you get the gentle waft of incense overlaying the scent of cow dung!

2. India is rich in history.

• We were blessed to have Yash as our guide. He had studied for many years to be a guide - first at a local level, then at a state level and finally at a national level. He has a brain filled with knowledge and if you are willing to listen and to ask questions, he would share it all. We learnt about the moghuls, the Raj, the British in India, the food, the religion, arranged marriages, and so much more.

3. Indian people are welcoming.

• The population of India is huge! The numbers are mind boggling and yet we did not feel claustrophobic or overwhelmed. The locals are welcoming and friendly. They smile, they wave, they ask where you are from, the ask you to pose in pictures with you. The staff at all of our hotels, the local guides, the wait staff at restaurants … all wanted to help you, make your stay memorable. All wanted to ask how your day was, what did you see, did you like it. They are proud of their country and are happy when you have had a good experience.

4. Indian food is amazing.

• In any country you visit you have to try the local food, and whilst we were warned off the street food by Yash (he was adamant we didn’t eat any) we were provided many opportunities to eat the local cuisine. Elaborate buffets of curries, breads, dips and sweet desserts were on offer, and for those inclined the buffets, especially at breakfast, had some “western” food. But why would you go to India and not eat the food. It was an adventure … with some curries burning your mouth, but in most cases they were delicately flavoured and spiced. I drank a stunning local wine (where can I buy Sula Sauvignon Blanc!), and whilst the coffee was nothing special, if I wanted the coffee like I drink it at home then I should have stayed at home.

5. India can be confronting.

• If you travel to India you do need to be prepared to see things that will challenge you. There is rubbish, there is poverty, there are areas of squalor. The traffic is mad and chaotic. Crossing a road is a case of look left, look right … then close your eyes and walk! There are children sitting on scooters and motorcycles … sandwiched between their parents with no helmets or harnesses. There are cows and dogs everywhere … you just have to walk around them. Toilets can be clean and maintained (10 rupee to use these) but others can be a challenge to use. Travel with hand sanitiser and have tissues on hand (stuffed down the bra … perfect hiding spot!) as toilet paper is not provided. There are homeless beggars who tap on the window of your car begging for food … you learn to ignore them … even if it breaks your heart.

So to the highlights.

• Taj Mahal obviously. Why go to India and not visit Agra and this spectacular gift of love? Unless of course you go on a Friday, when it’s closed for prayers at the temple. Go, be awed, sit in contemplation, and if you can share it with your one true love.
• Amber Fort in Jaipur. Of all the forts this one had the had a combination of scale, setting, colour, design and feel that set it apart from the Agra Fort and the Red Fort in Delhi. All three are absolutely worth a visit. We liked this one the best.
• Qutub Minar, the ancient tower and palace in Delhi. Bonus points for longevity, even if bits of the surrounds are crumbling. But we were fortunate to see it at dusk when the lights came on and turned something stunning into another experience.
• If you can fit it into your schedule then you must go to Ranthambhore and go on safari looking for a tiger. If you are lucky you will spy one, but even if you don’t the National Park is filled with interesting animals and bird life.
• For the scientifically minded … Jantar Mantar is a must. It only takes about 30-45 minutes but you will be amazed at the accuracy of the instruments built in 1728.
• For fun … a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk will get you up close to the locals in one of the busiest markets in Old Delhi.
• Be game and confident to get off the tourist track … by exploring the streets on your own. Check with your guide, you only need to go off the main road by a couple of blocks to see a whole new India. Boys playing cricket, cows at the front door, women making blankets, new houses being built, dinner cooking in the kitchen … it is all there for you to see if you are willing to step out of your comfort zone.

And finally, if you are thinking of going to India … GO!