Rajasthan – The Enchanting Land of Kings

The Land of Kings Rajasthan, is surely the most colourful and unique state in Northern India, if not all of India. Its capital, Jaipur, the “Pink City”, derives its name from the reddish-pink stones...

Udaipur – Venice of the East, 007 and Saris

India is a vibrant country steeped in tradition, culture and contrasts.  She boasts mountain ranges, sweeping plateaus (deccans) and deserts, and modern sky-scrapers developed next to slums and temples. Udaipur nestles in the south western...

Day 14 – 19 April 2011 – Sleep Deprived

  Updated October 2021 Arrived just after 06:30 this morning from the overnight train from Jaipur and felt a tad groggy.  This perhaps had something to do with trying to sleep on a noisy train in...
Karni Mata Temple’s ornate marble entrance displays Rajputana architecture

Exploring Karni Mata Rat Temple

Introduction India is well-known for its numerous religions, countless gods and goddesses, rituals, and many myths. Would it surprise you that it has a rat temple? No, I’m not kidding. It has! It’s estimated more than...
Jaipur’s Cafés - Perfect Hideaways for Relaxation and European Breakfasts

Cafés in Jaipur Serving Breakfast with a European Twist

Jaipur, the Pink City and capital of Rajasthan, is a city of contrasts. Between majestic palaces, bustling bazaars, and chaotic streets, travellers seek moments of calm.  As a result, the cafés in Jaipur provide...

Day 19 – 24 April 2011 – From One Extreme to Another

Updated October 2011 I was looking forward to Singapore.  I feel a strong connection with her as I was born there and have been fortunate to visit several times since. We left Mumbai at 10:05 this...
The Red Fort or Lal Qila

Day 4 – 9 April 2011 – Sarongs, Sandstone and Cycle Rides

Updated October 2021 After a healthy breakfast of fruit and juices (honestly!) our driver collected us just after 8am to start a full day of sightseeing in Old Delhi.  First stop was the very impressive...

An Unforgettable Afternoon with Sampa at Elefantastic

I’ll confess that I am neither overly fond of domestic pets or an animal activist. But that doesn’t mean that I’ll support animal cruelty or suffering. Quite the opposite. I’ll further admit that I went...

A Spiritual Experience In Varanasi and Sarnath

There’s no doubt that Varanasi is as compelling as any trip to Delhi, Agra or Jaipur. In a single visit, you can witness life and death side-by-side while Varanasi’s residents carry on with their...

Day 8 – 13 April 2011 – Our Quest to spot Shere Khan

Updated October 2021 We had an early start this morning as we had a 6 hour road trip for an appointment on an afternoon safari to spot a Royal Bengal Tiger.  Arriving just after 12:00...