Review of Trip and Farewell Dinner

The whole "family" (our OAT group) joined Sanjay in his room for a get-together and summary of our trip. It was amazing how he remembered every day (in order) and most of the special details about what occurred and each of us. We all laughed as he described some of the funny situations involving many of us.

Earlier in the day, we all decided to wear something we had purchased while on the trip. Since Steve and I bought new clothing we wore it. (My outfit was made for me when we were in Ranthambore. Steve's personally-made turban completed his outfit. (He used two scarves we had bought.) We got a lot of attention from the restaurant staff as we got off the elevator. Lots of fun!

Dinner was good with a lot of serving attention by the waiters. This time a drink was included so Steve had wine and I ordered beer. I thought it would be one glass but it was a whole bottle. I did not finish it.

Brian, one of the people in the group, read some observations he had made about many of us. I followed that with something I wrote about Sanjay. (I'll add that to another blog entry.) Afterwards, we went into the gift shop nearby. (I was good and didn't buy anything.)

We don't have to be up so early tomorrow since our discovery outing is at 10 AM. Will be nice to sleep later than the last few VERY EARLY mornings.

October 10 - Saranth and Silk

As we boarded the bus shortly after 10, it was strange to realize it was still morning. We had been up for almost 6 hours already. Tiredness hit Steve and me. He dozed and I did my best to pay attention to Sanjay's information for our next stop at Saranth, the ancient Buddhist learning center. It was here that Buddha preached his first sermon to his disciples. There is a temple with interesting frescoes about his life, an outside exhibit showing him preaching, the Buddhist stupa (discovered by an Englishman in 1836), and the Saranth Museum that houses sculptures of Buddha and Hindu gods and goddesses. I decided not to pay the fee to take pictures in the temple. Better buying a set of postcards of Saranth and Varanasi. As we walked into the museum, there were hawkers on both sides of us, but we all ignored them. Getting very good at doing that.

Again, onto the bus for a ride to "King of Brocade" The Mehta International Silk Weaving Center (a family owned/run business that has existed for multiple generations), located near our hotel. We were given a demonstration about the weaving they do on the looms. There were bottles of soda and fruit for us to have while the proprietor showed us some examples of the beautiful work they have in their shop. Bought a few items. (Couldn't resist.) We will be faced with the challenge of fitting everything we bought into our suitcases. We can manage, I'm sure.

In our room, there was a bottle of wine. We had some with fruit (left yesterday for us) and English "digestive" crackers that I had bought at the Khajuraho Airport. Good snack.

October 10 - Sunrise on the Ganges

We were all ready to leave the hotel at 5 AM. Since there wasn't much traffic (This early who in their right minds would be going anywhere unless they had to. No stores open so early!) our bus was able to take us within a short walk from the shore of the Ganges. There were people there but mostly "locals" who were taking their ritual immersion in the river. Very interesting to see as we were on the boat passing by the various ghats. Some people were even soaping themselves for a real bath. The water, contrary to what some people may think, is quite free from bacteria, even with all the stuff that winds up in the river. Is it a miracle, and the reason why the Ganges is considered so sacred? Steve dipped some malas we bought into the water, and filled three small bottles to take home; traditional Indians always keep some Ganges water at home to use for purification and blessings. We may give some as gifts to Indians we know, or use it ourselves. It is said that putting a little Ganges water in a bathtub of regular water makes it the same as bathing in the Ganges itself!

Sunrise on the Ganges... an amazing sight. Some people swim out a distance in the water.

There were funeral pyres at this time, too. We did see an electric crematorium. Not too many people use it yet since it doesn't go along with their traditions.

When we left the bus, we walked through the narrow passageways, observing people and looking at the various temples that were crowded in by "newer" construction. We passed by a "disputed" place of worship... both a mosque and a temple at the same site... that was guarded by police. No pictures allowed there.

Back to the hotel about 8 AM for breakfast. Very disappointing buffet with mostly cold food (that should have been hot) in the chafing dishes.

We had until about 10 AM to shower and get dressed for the next part of our discoveries.

October 9 - Seeing the Aorti Ceremony on the Ganges

We boarded the bus for a short ride to the old part of the city. We couldn't get too close to the Ganges, so had to go on rickshaws. These rickshaws are much smaller than others we've been on. Sanjay said it's always good to have someone to ride with so you can share what you see along the way. It was a very tight fit for Steve and me, but I'm happy we rode together. So much more interesting when you have someone to talk to. The rickshaw driver worked hard as he pedaled us along the very busy streets. There's a lot of traffic but mostly other rickshaws, bicycles, and motorbikes. Many people walk along the way, too.

When we got off the rickshaws, we walked down the many steps to the shore of the Ganges. It was very crowded with people and the many boats. We boarded our boat and were rowed out into the water. We passed by the funeral ghats, watching as people brought the deceased to be placed on wood, covered with more wood, and then set on fire. Due to the warm temperatures, people are cremated as soon as possible after they die. Surprisingly, there weren't loud noises of people crying as I expected to hear. It's just a fact of life and death to Hindus that they will be taken to this location if they live in/near Varanasi.

We returned to the place where we boarded the boat and sat to watch the aorti ceremony. Every day, 365 days a year, just after sundown, the temple priests perform this sacred light ceremony on the banks of "Mother Ganga." Impressive sight and sounds as they chant.

As soon as we were back on shore, the street hawkers were trying to get us to buy something... "Miss... remember me?" "Where are you from?" "Just 100 rupees" "A bag, Mam..." "Postcards..." "I'll see you tomorrow..." Never ending no matter where we were.

Our rickshaw driver directed us back to his rickshaw and we began the ride to where our bus had parked. It was good to get back on the air-conditioned bus and be able to move easily. We had dinner at the Hotel Surya. Sanjay arranged for something different... Thalis. It's a "combination plate" with assorted Indian dishes. Very tasty, but I didn't eat too much since I wanted to take it easy. I was feeling much better than in the morning.

We didn't get back to the hotel until about 9:30 so went to bed soon after, knowing we had to be up very early for our sunrise visit to the Ganges.

October 9 – Flying to Varanasi

After Steve returned to the room, we went to breakfast. I was feeling a little better (thank goodness) so I ate a little bit, just enough to take med and vitamins. We reorganized/packed and, after leaving the suitcases outside the room, checked out the shops by the hotel. Of course, all of the shopowners kept trying to get us to go into their shops. We made a couple of purchases and then joined others in our group for the short ride to the small airport. Entering the building, we had to show our passports. A bit time consuming but not too bad. We waited in the passenger area and then found out the flight was delayed about 50 minutes. This isn’t unusual, from what we’ve been told. We got in line for security and had a long wait (about 40 minutes) as one man checked the passports (again), boarding passes, and hand luggage tags. Then our hand baggage went on the security belt for scanning. Each of us was “patted down” before we could get our hand luggage. We didn’t have to remove our shoes or show the quart size bag of small liquid containers. Many of us had water bottles in our bags. Some were allowed and others weren’t. No sense, but it’s just the way they do things. We waited in the other area for the plane to arrive. Of course there was a vendor selling water and snacks.

When the plane was ready for us, we walked out onto the tarmac to climb the steps to the plane. Most of us were sitting together, but not all as couples. On the short 35-minute flight, we were served half a sandwich, a small lime drink, and a small bottle of water. Comfortable flight. At the Varanasi Airport, we waited for Sanjay to locate our bags, and then followed him and the porters to the bus. Ride to the Radisson Varanasi wasn’t too long. When we entered, we were given rudraksha necklaces, a bindi on the forehead, and a cold glass of Coke. The luggage arrived within 15 minutes, so we changed for the evening.

Out of Commission

Looks like it's my turn to have some "bug" and staying in for the morning. Last night Steve had the same symptoms, took AlphaCF and is doing better this morning. Achy (head and stomach) and feeling cold, even with no AC on. I'm usually the one who wants it cranked up high. I'm on the AlphaCF regimen and drank a liter of water with an electrolyte powder. Part of the problem might be some dehydration. I'm leery about drinking much on the bus when I know that we won't be stopping for more than 2 hours. That's been one of the most difficult aspects of this trip. With no toilet on the bus and stops not too often, I've avoided the water that I know I should be drinking. Having it at dinner isn't enough.

Steve went to see the sites this morning and will be back about 9:30 for breakfast. I'm not hungry at all but must eat something so I can take the malarone. (Must have this with food.)

Considering that we ride in a bus for a long period, it's not a surprise when people get sick. Easy to catch something. Good thing is that no one has been coughing.

We fly to Varanasi this afternoon. Hopefully I'll be feeling better by then.

Dinner at Radisson Jass Hotel in Khajuraho

Desserts ... yummy. (This was a smaller selection that the last hotel but plenty of choice.) They had ice-cream, too,with chocolate syrup. So much food on this trip. It always amazes me how much is on the buffets. Hard to not over-indulge with all that if available. Tonight I had a little orange mousse and small scoop of vanilla ice-cream. Good today, but never sure how I'll be tomorrow.

The main dishes were very good, especially the eggplant dish. The presentation is always impressive.

On days when there are THREE included meals, we aren't usually hungry for dinner. I know we don't HAVE to eat so much but, again, it's hard to resist. Good that tomorrow we have only breakfast and dinner included. I'll just stick to my cereal/yogurt and a little egg for breakfast. I start out so well and then... Oh, well. I'll be back to "normal" next week.

Batteries in airplanes in India

Tomorrow we're going to be flying from Khajuraho to Varanasi on Jet Airways. We were told that when flying within India, extra batteries must be in checked baggage. A device may have its batteries but nothing loose. Very strange. It's not a big deal, but I have to remember to take the extra batteries out of my camera case before leaving my suitcase out for porter pickup at hotel tomorrow. Will have to remember again when we fly back to Delhi on Sunday. Always something different to keep us "alert."

October 8 - Long Ride after Leaving the Train

While on the train, of course I had to use the toilet. I really wanted to avoid the "squat" one but the wait for the other one was too long. Another adventure... I can understand now what Steve meant when he told me about having to use the one on the moving bus in Peru. It's a real "balancing act" while having to hold the door closed since there wasn't a lock on it.

When we arrived in Jhansi, our luggage was transferred from the train to the bus. It was probably a good thing I had a headache and slept most of the way because it was VERY BUMPY as the GCT booklet mentioned. Even roads that supposed to be called "highways" are not smooth. Some were also very narrow as the bus passed by trucks coming from the opposite direction.

When we arrived in Alipura for lunch, all of us were more interested in using the facility first than going into the dining room for lunch. There was a woman who handed us tissues for both using the toilet and after washing our hands. Yes, toilets there were "Western style."

The buffet lunch was very good. Yummy tomato soup served at the table and delicious other foods. It was especially nice to sit without bumping up and down. While there, a man welcomed us to the area. He's originally from Seattle and now lives in Khajuraho.

After lunch, I browsed in the shop, but didn't buy anything. (Good for me!)

While on the train, of course I had to use the toilet. I really wanted to avoid the "squat" one but the wait for the other one was too long. Another adventure... I can understand now what Steve meant when he told me about having to use the one on the moving bus in Peru. It's a real "balancing act" while having to hold the door closed since there wasn't a lock on it.

When we arrived in Jhansi, our luggage was transferred from the train to the bus. It was probably a good thing I had a headache and slept most of the way because it was VERY BUMPY as the GCT booklet mentioned. Even roads that are supposed to be called "highways" are not smooth. Some were also very narrow as the bus barely passed by trucks coming from the opposite direction.

When we arrived in Alipura for lunch, all of us were more interested in using the facility first than going into the dining room for lunch. There was a woman who handed us tissues for both using the toilet and after washing our hands. Yes, toilets there were "Western style."

The buffet lunch was very good. Yummy tomato soup served at the table and delicious other foods. It was especially nice to sit without bumping up and down. While there, a man welcomed us to the area. He's originally from Seattle and now lives in Khajuraho.

After lunch, I browsed in the shop, but didn't buy anything. (Good for me!)

Back on the road for the last 2 hour drive of the day. We arrived at the Radisson Jass Hotel about 5 PM. They served us some soda (Coke) and Sanjay gave us our room cards. Room is nice, with all we need, including WASHCLOTHS. We found out that we get FREE WiFi so Steve called for the password. Yay! I can keep up-to-date. This is the first time that I'm writing as I'm online. The TV wasn't getting any channels when we first arrived but is ok now. (I think they might have had to reboot the system.) Dinner in the hotel tonight.

Tomorrow morning we're leaving at 6:30 AM for our excursion to see the "erotic carvings" of the Chandelas. Since it's very hot here in Central India, it's best to go out early and be back before it gets HOTTER. We'll have breakfast when we get back about 9:30, shower, and then go to the airport about noon for our flight to Varanasi. On the way here, Sanjay pointed out the airport. We didn't even notice it. Must be small...

October 8 – Train Ride

We had to be up early this morning to go to the train station for the ride to Jhansi. While waiting in the bus at the station (Sanjay and a local travel rep took care of the luggage), we watched the people arriving at the station. There were many young children begging, as we’ve often seen on the trip. There was also a young man sitting near the bus area, most likely seeking money, too. So much of this.

As we entered the station, we saw a lot of people wating for the train. It was late, but not more than 10 or 15 minutes. We’ve heard that trains are now very reliable but can be a little late, sometimes due to having to stop for something on the tracks. (Cows… children…) Since our train is electric, people don’t ride on top as they used to. (Too dangerous now.)

It’s kind of strange to be writing this as I sit on the train. I have a window seat but not much to look at yet. We were given a bottle of water for the trip and there is food included. We had a good breakfast at the hotel Grand Buffet so most of us aren’t hungry.

This ride will last “about” 2 hours. Should be interesting. Air conditioned, thank goodness, so comfortable. Unlike the bus rides we’ve had so far, it’s very smooth riding. There are toilets onboard in each car, one Western-style (sit) and the other Eastern-style (squat).

October 7 – Viewing a Wonder of the World

We left the hotel shortly after 6AM so we could go see the Taj Mahal as the sun rose in the sky. Arriving at the parking area, we were given a bottle of water and boarded a bus for the short ride near the entrance of the Taj complex. We had to pass through security there. (We had been told that we couldn’t take anything other than personal things and no electronic devices. There is always the threat of something happening at/to the Taj so they are very strict.)

I’ve been looking forward to seeing the Taj for so long and was not disappointed. It was kind of surreal being there. We watched as the light changed the look of the structure. Of course, I took a lot of pictures. Steve had to check his video camera since they are not allowed past a certain point, even though he paid 25 rupees (50 cents) to be allowed to use it. There was a professional photographer who took a group picture and many pair/individual ones of Steve and me. (Yes, we purchased them because they were excellent.) The photographer is the one who photographed Princess Di when she was there. When she was there, there were no people in the background because it closes to other people when some dignitaries visit. We were able to walk inside the mausoleum, wearing our shoecovers. Sanjay repeated what I had said about the Taj probably closing to visitors in the not-too-far future. (That’s the main reason we decided to take the India trip this year.)

Breakfast back at the Grand Buffet in the hotel and a short time to relax before leaving for our visit to the Red Fort, commissioned by the Mughai Emperor Akbar in 1565 A.D. It was here that the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan, who commissioned the Taj Mahal to be built as a monument to his late wife, was “imprisoned” by his son for the last eight years of his life. He had a view of the Taj but could not go there. He had a restricted area to live and visit with his concubines, and could not leave the area.

Because there was a wet moat where the crocodiles would feast on any invaders stupid enough to try to cross (there was also a dry moat with wild animals, in case they tried to poison the crocs!), Sanjay described the over-aggressive hawkers as “reincarnated crocodiles.”

We visited a marble inlay center for a demonstration of the process and looked at beautiful marble tabletops, plates, and objects in the showrooms. Exquisite but more money that I wanted to spend. Besides, I really don’t have room. (I know… could make room for something if I really wanted to.)

We decided to not go to the optional evening show/dinner and have something to eat for dinner at the hotel. Stopped in the hotel shop to buy a miniature marble Taj Mahal (only place I saw this one) and a couple of other things.

Happy that I can upload to my blog today. Rates are good at the hotel.

October 6 – Seeing an Amazing Site on the Way to Agra

As we traveled on the bus, we passed through towns that were all lined with both shops and freestanding vendor carts, selling a great variety of items. The produce was brightly colored, all looking very fresh. People were making purchases, probably just of the day since many do not have any refrigeration.

Sanjay told us we were going to a “wow” place. He wasn’t kidding. As we entered Chand Baori, I was amazed. This magnificent stepped well was built by Raja Chand, who ruled from the 8th to 9th century. This is one the earliest baori in Rajasthan. The 19.8 meter deep baori is square on a plan enclosed by pillared verandas with the entrance on the north. It has a double flight of steps on 15 landings from south, east, and west. It was used for religious purposes. The water level constantly changed depending on rainfall, so access to whatever level it was at was made possible by using the many steps.

Nearby, we watched a man using a traditional potter’s wheel. It was impressive to see how quickly he made useful pottery items. School children, on their half-hour break from classes, came by and watched us and posed for pictures.

Buffet lunch on the way and more riding in the bus.

We got off the bus and onto a smaller bus to ride up the hill to Fateh-Pur-Sikri, the City of Victory and monument to the great Moghai Emperor Akbar. Buildings of red sandstone surrounded a courtyard. Outside the complex area and at the bottom of the hill, we were constantly pestered to make purchases. Again, we had to totally ignore them on the walk to our bus. Sanjay had a great system of showing us different items on the bus from each vendor, at the best prices, so we could buy something without the annoyance of the hawkers.

Arriving in the city of Agra was an experience. A lot of traffic that crawled along the roads. I was amazed to see people carrying very large purchases on the back of bicycle rickshaws.

We arrived at the Jaypee Palace Hotel, a modern hotel that has convention facilities and many amenities that would be expected from this type of property. As we entered, each of us was given a flower garland and a tasty lime drink. We were again given a bindi mark on our foreheads.

Very nice room with all the comforts to be expected. There were apples on the table, something (a fruit plate) that GCT often provides to its Inner Circle members.

We had dinner at the Grand Buffet, where food displays were inviting to look at and the food was excellent. A cook was making “pasta to order” which I couldn’t resist having made for me. Trying not to eat too much is very difficult when all of the food looks so good.

October 5 – Visit to Handicraft Center and OAT Camp

In Ranthambore, we had the opportunity to visit a women’s handicraft center. The coordinator of the center told us that it provides a place for women to create products that generate an income for them. Each woman has her own bank account, enabling her to assist her family, including sending children to school. Many of the fabric items were of exceptional quality at very reasonable prices. We bought some items, knowing our purchases will financially help some of the women.

Lunch was “in the middle of nowhere” under a tent that had been set up just for OAT groups. People from the camp cooked and set up our buffet lunch. There was a “toilet tent” that had a flush toilet and nice sink. Very unusual to zip a tent closed and have “all the comforts.” OAT set this up because there really isn’t any other place to stop for lunch as we travel to the camp. (It’s more than four hours from where we stayed the night before to the camp.)

We had to get into jeeps to go from the main road to the camp. Very bumpy road but interesting as young children kept running out of their homes to yell “hello” to us as we rode by (but mostly “bye-bye,” which seemed ominous, as if we were heading to a “roach motel” or a soylent green facility!).

At the camp, we were greeted by the staff with marigold garlands and a cold drink. We were told that the camp facilities were simple and small but it didn’t seem that way to me. Each of us (either couple or single person) had our own cabin with private bath and evaporative fan that had water to cool the room. Problem was with the low doorways. Steve hit his head twice so he hung toilet paper from the top so he’d remember to duck down before going through the doorway.

After a short time in our cabins, we went back outside for the camel ride. I was very nervous about this but decided that I was going to overcome the fear. I did okay as the camel got up but held on very tightly to both handle areas. I thought I’d never make it through the 45 minute + ride but, with the encouragement of some of the other people in the group, I relaxed and held onto the right handle and enjoyed the ride. I didn’t take any pictures along the way, not wanting to let go. When we returned to the camp, I dismounted and was happy I participated in the experience.

Before dinner, we had a cooking demonstration of a veggie dish and breads. Entertainment was by a local family who played music and danced. At the end, we all danced in a circle with them. Dinner was held inside, all very good with fresh local ingredients. I was exhausted when we returned to our cabin, looking forward to the next day.

October 5 – Seeing the School Sponsored by Grand Circle

On most of our Grand Circle/OAT trips, we’ve visited schools that are financially assisted by the Grand Circle Foundation. Many of them have been getting the help for a long time. This time we were able to see a school (private, not government run) that has recently started in the program. Sanjay told us that this summer, the OAT staff (office and trip leaders) spent time at the Saini Adarsh Vidyah Mandir School in Ramsinghpura, with reconstruction (interior areas), electrical work (installing fans), and painting at the school. The school has classes for children through Grade 8. After that, they have to travel to another location for higher grades. The students left their sandals in a covered area and sat on a mat in their “classrooms.” All students were from the area, but the teachers came from away from the local village. Students were all excited to see us, posing for pictures and showing us their work. I read from one student’s writing journal and was very impressed with his English.

Since all classrooms didn’t have closed doors, it was usually very noisy as we walked through the middle area. The ground was muddy, as it had rained the day before. This didn’t seem to bother any of the students. Most students wore uniforms as they are in most schools in India.

Unfortunately, the bureaucracy in India has prevented most of the GCT funds from being used by the school. Fortunately, the Delhi office has been helping out with needs of the school. When the summer work was done, they brought blackboards and some school supplies with them. Many of us, as we’ve done in the past, brought some supplies, too. (This time I brought pencils and markers. Someone else brought rulers.)

I’d like to see what the school looked like before the OAT staff helped. I’ll call GCT (Boston office) when I get home to find out if they have some pictures.) A future plan is to add classrooms to the second floor and convert some open (covered) areas to toilets. Children now have to go out of the school for using one. (I’m not sure where all of them go, but most live close by.)

We walked to a local home to see how the villagers lived. Our host was one of three brothers who live in the same area. He is both a farmer and a guard at the park. He showed us his home (very simple but had a TV) and served us crackers and fresh-made chai. Our seats were their beds (woven cots) that were set up outside. Life is simple for them and they appear to be very happy and content.

October 4 – Afternoon - Rain Stopped for Game Viewing

Thank goodness the rain stopped so we could go to the Park for the game viewing. We rode in a canter (open 4-wheel drive vehicle) so we could see from both sides. The naturalist who was with us explained about the sounds that the deer make when a tiger in nearby. We did see tiger tracks along the way but no tiger. Saw many peacocks and other birds, deer, and other wildlife. We kept stopping for photos and to listen for the signal sounds of the deer. At one point, we headed over to an area where other canters were, all waiting to see the elusive tiger. We were limited in our search by having to stay in the one assigned sector (3) by the government. The weather was good, though it did rain very lightly. In spite of not seeing the tiger, we enjoyed the sights and the ride.

Prior to leaving, I visited the shop and had a fitting for an outfit that would be made that afternoon so I could pick it up that evening. When I picked it up, I bought a scarf to go with it. Steve had a sash made to go with the outfit he purchased earlier on the trip. We’ll wear them at our farewell dinner in Varanasi.

October 4 – Day Begins with Rain

We woke up early (6AM), getting ready for our first game viewing. As we opened the door, we saw it raining very hard. After arriving at the restaurant, we were told that we’d have breakfast and wait to see if the weather improved. No change by 7:45 AM, so we returned to our room. Sanjay told me that we would wait until we hear if the park will be open or closed today. We’re scheduled for two game viewings so we might get to go later. As Sanjay says, OGK (Only Good Knows). There is a great need here for the rain as this year has been a drought without the usual monsoon rains. As much as I want to go into the park and maybe see a tiger (They’re very elusive and rarely seen.), I am not too upset with the situation. Not much to do at this hotel with nothing other than the restaurant open. One person was told there was no newspaper delivery due to the rain. New one for me! Massage people aren’t here either as they are by appointment only. The shop owner has been called so he’ll open soon. He’ll probably do a great business since there are 32 OAT travelers here and a few other people.

September 29 – More sites in Delhi and Home Hosted Visit

Yes, this is out of order. I forgot to include this when I last uploaded to the blog.
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Our day began with a visit to the Quwwat-ul-Islam Masjid Mosque in Delhi, the oldest one in India, built by knocking down 27 Hindu temples and using the parts for the mosque. Shoes didn’t have to be removed, as it is no longer an active mosque. The whole Indo-Islamic architecture complex is punctuated by the Qutb Minar, a 234-foot-high tower, built in three sections by three separate rulers. There is also a pure iron column, over 20-feet high, that shows no rust after over 2000 years. This is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and the symbol of New Delhi. Our visit, after that, to a Kashmir carpet center was very interesting. The carpets are silk and hand-knotted.

We tried to go to the Bahai Lotus Temple (in the shape of a large white lotus blossom), but we arrived just minutes after they were closing for a four-hour afternoon period, due to lunch and the heat, so we turned back to the bus.

Lunch was at Lotus Pond, a Chinese restaurant, near our hotel. Food was good and plentiful. I love Indian food but it’s good to have some variety.

We returned to the hotel for a short time and had to leave our room so that it could be made up. We went downstairs to look at the shops and then sat in the lobby waiting until it was time to leave again.

We boarded the bus to go to Birla House, now called the Gandhi Smriti, where Gandhi lived for his last 114 days. It was here where he was assassinated prior to his giving audience in the garden. There are interesting exhibits and preservation of his simple belongings. The two rooms where he lived are able to be viewed, also. There are wax figures of both him and his wife in one of the museum rooms.

Back to the hotel to clean up and get ready to go for our first home-hosted visit for this trip. Our hostess, who, among other things, teaches “Bollywood” dancing and chocolate recipes, provided us with interesting conversation and good food. She has a 20-year-old “helper,” who has been with the home for four years, who assisted. Unfortunately, we were unable to meet her husband because he was visiting his mother in the hospital. We gave her a gift of information and a pin from where we live.