Well, India has been a whirlwind of traveling by plane, bus, taxi, and of course, trains and auto-rickshaws. I joined Brad and Scott in Mumbai, and we quickly headed to Udaipur in Rajasthan. A few days there, admiring the palaces and temples, then on to Jodhpur, where we stayed at one of my favourite places yet. The director and manager of the hotel took us in and made us feel like a part of the family, inviting us to light fireworks with their children as part of Diwali (the Indian festival of Lights). A few days there, exploring the beautiful and magnificent fort of Mehrangar, and then on to Dharamsala, where we've been for the past week. Actually, we're in Mcleod Ganj, a small town where the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile reside. It's been an eye-opening experience learning about the situation in Tibet. I knew China had occupied Tibet, but I never realized the full extent of the story or the human rights violations still taking place there today.
It's been a peaceful stay here in Mcleod Ganj though, with plenty of things to do, amazing food, and beautiful natural scenery. We've spent a couple of days hiking in the mountains and that has been my favourite part of the trip so far. Spectacular views, gorgeous mountains, crystal clear mountain streams, sore legs, etc. Here's a few pictures of what we've seen. A tiny portion, but the rest will have to wait until I get home.
Well, I had intended to put about 12 more pictures up here, but it's really slow, and I don't want to sit here for another hour waiting for pictures, so you'll just have to wait until I get back.
