After my 6 hour train from Delhi I arrived in 
much smaller, but no less hassle-free, Jaipur. Known as the "Pink City", as all the buildings were once painted an orangish shade of pink for the arriving Maharaja, Jaipur is the Capital of the state of Rahjastan-the supposed "real" India. If judging by my own limited experience, then I would have to agree with this distinction; Jaipur was yet another haven for endless touts. Nonetheless, I found the city to be somewhat cleaner and less chaotic than Delhi...which was a welcome change. The main draw in Jaipur is the Amber Fort some 11 Km outside of the city. The fort was built by a Maharaja in the 17 century, etc. etc. etc. Despite my obvious lack of historical interest, the structure itself was grandiose; its surroundings 
picturesque. After, I visited a textile factory where I witnessed the process of dying, printing and processing of the many elaborate pashminas and duvet covers I had seen sold on the street. After a short and somewhat discouraging 2 day venture into Jaipur, I decided to head to Jaisalmer where life as a tourist would become much more enjoyable....but not before one last punch in the nether regions from Jaipur. My train was scheduled to leave at 12 midnight and arrive in Jaisalmer at 11:00 in the morning. I should have not been surprised when my 3rd class 
sleeper train had finally departed at 4am. Not a good time for me...but this is travelling in a 3rd world country, and this is what I must be (mentally) prepared for. Things get much better in Jaisalmer.
much smaller, but no less hassle-free, Jaipur. Known as the "Pink City", as all the buildings were once painted an orangish shade of pink for the arriving Maharaja, Jaipur is the Capital of the state of Rahjastan-the supposed "real" India. If judging by my own limited experience, then I would have to agree with this distinction; Jaipur was yet another haven for endless touts. Nonetheless, I found the city to be somewhat cleaner and less chaotic than Delhi...which was a welcome change. The main draw in Jaipur is the Amber Fort some 11 Km outside of the city. The fort was built by a Maharaja in the 17 century, etc. etc. etc. Despite my obvious lack of historical interest, the structure itself was grandiose; its surroundings 
picturesque. After, I visited a textile factory where I witnessed the process of dying, printing and processing of the many elaborate pashminas and duvet covers I had seen sold on the street. After a short and somewhat discouraging 2 day venture into Jaipur, I decided to head to Jaisalmer where life as a tourist would become much more enjoyable....but not before one last punch in the nether regions from Jaipur. My train was scheduled to leave at 12 midnight and arrive in Jaisalmer at 11:00 in the morning. I should have not been surprised when my 3rd class 
sleeper train had finally departed at 4am. Not a good time for me...but this is travelling in a 3rd world country, and this is what I must be (mentally) prepared for. Things get much better in Jaisalmer. 
1 comment:
Hey John,
I check your blog everyday with hopes of learning what touts you've had. Can't wait to see pictures of The Pink City. Many of my friends have commented about how much they're enjoying your travels vicariously. As many have commented on what a good writer you are too. You have a style, a voice, they enjoy. Keep us posted.
I pray for you everyday!
Love,
Mom
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