Jaipur

Kieran:

We arrived in Jaipur in the afternoon of the 7th. After checking in to our hotel, we went to view the water palace and a temple complex by the lake, but not before riding an elephant! The next day we got up early to lose ourselves in the maze of courtyards, corridors and narrow stairways that is the Amber Fort. We then dived into the old city (where most things are painted a hue of pink). We visited the City Palace, which after paying 300 rupees to get in, was rather disappointing. Though there is the possibility that our judgement is a little jaded, after seeing so many similar structures throughout Rajasthan.

We finished the day by going up to the old fort, situated in the hills that tower around the city. Up here, our eyes beheld the largest cannon in the world (made of eight metals, weighing over 240 tons, and manouvered by 4 elephants, it could shoot a 50kg ball 22 miles off into the horizon.... and it only fired once.) Though, the views over the city and beyond were what really made it worth the visit. Anyway, after sunset we walked to the water palace, this time to see it lit up, casting colourful reflections over the pitch black, placid waters.

Nick:

Jaipur:

Hey Guys, worn out today! Rode a poor elephant; a bit depressing actually. Not like I expected. Jaipur not really my kind of place so far, but we’ll see more tomorrow. Hope you guys are doing OK, very hot day! We are up and down all the time, usually worst in overly touristy bits.

Bats all over fort ceiling this morning. Not too bad today. Just not our favourite! Looking forward to moving south. We'll ask driver for train advice also. Should be an experience....

Hey Guys, just been round bird sanctuary! Saw grey nightjar, bee-eaters, storks, antelope and more! Not good year for park though, quiet for birds. (Most birds arrive for the winter, from late September)

They don't do bike hire any more. We got a cycle rickshaw and a guide to show us around . Just visited Fatipur Sikri; was pants. (I remember her from school, she was pants then too, Dad.) Can't wait to escape to Goa!

Train is at five in the evening. we're in second air-con class. Hope its pretty good. We'll get snacks tomorrow before we go. 'Night!