Experiencing India

India has been amazing thus far. It's unlike anything I have ever experienced. The culture and history has been really interesting to learn about and everyone we've met has been so so kind. I'm still getting used to the time difference (I'm currently writing this post at 4am) but I'm sure that will resolve itself soon.

My trip began in New Delhi where I met the others on my tour and we ventured out to share a meal together. The place we went to was called Kitchen With A Cause, a restaurant that helps underprivileged young adults rescued by NGO's. The young adults were incredible and the food was amazing! I'd highly recommend this spot if you ever find yourself in the area. The India Gate (a war memorial) as well as the president's house were the next stops on our list before we headed to Jaipur.

  

Jaipur, also known as the pink city, was full of amazing architecture. The Amber Fort and the Wind Palace were no exceptions to this. We also took some time here to explore the markets and see the city center. I purchased the fabric for a sari in hopes to get one made later in the trip. 


While in Jaipur I also got to check off arguably the biggest thing on my “bucket list” which was to ride in a hot air balloon. We drove to the outskirts of the city and saw the sun rise up over the mountains. It was incredible to see India from this viewpoint. The monsoon season is just ending so everything is so lush and green. We waved and shouted to the children below and even saw some monkeys rustling in a tree. Then when we landed, what seemed like a whole village came out to greet us. It was truly a magical experience. 







We finished up our time in Jaipur with a Bollywood movie and a perfect evening at a restaurant that overlooked the city. Unexpected fireworks were also set off by someone nearby which capped off an amazing time in this beautiful city. 

The next day we travelled to Agra to see the Taj Mahal. The whole time I couldn’t help but wonder if the movie Aladdin was based on this city. He lives in Agra Ba and the castle is somewhat similar in architecture to the Taj. If you know, please feel to leave a message in the comments! The Taj Mahal was beautiful and the story behind it is also moving. 


 

The next stop on my Indian adventure was Orchha. Here we had a great day exploring, swimming and getting fitted for our saris. I even got a henna tattoo. We tried to go to prayer at the temple but got caught in a rainstorm.  I have never seen rain like that. The water was just gushing down the road and the thunder was literally right above us. Eventually we just had to brave the weather and walk through the water back to the hotel. It was another experience I won’t soon forget! 


~Ms. C







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