Yes, when you have heard so much about a place, you feel the need to go. That's exactly what I did last year.
I flew from KL to Tiruchirappalli or in short, Thrichi, with Air Asia. Not a good idea if your destination is somewhere in Bangalore.
Thrichi
Touched down after 4.5 hours of flight. Everything seemed ordinary, except for some occasional stares I got. I took a few minutes to wander around the airport and spotted a "Chai" parlor serving hot and fragrant masala tea.
The tuk-tuk was something new to me and I was eager to get on it, although I doubted its capability. The meter was no longer a practical feature of the tuk-tuk, or should I say, trust is the way to do business in India.
After less than 10 minutes of a tuk-tuk ride, I reached a tiny buzzing town. It was a Friday afternoon. Top right corner was 'rasam', authentically South Indian and the 'chapatti' with 'raita'. The meal was simple but, the truly satisfying.
New Delhi - Agra
In India, tuk-tuk or cab would be tourists' main mode of transport to get around. These were taken on the way from Delhi to Agra. The journey took slightly less than 6 hours, I think.
Behind the wheel was a cab driver of few words. While waiting for the cab driver's return at the border checkpoint, a spunky show monkey dropped by and performed a gig. A small tip was expected if you look like you have enjoyed the gig. I see it as a trade.
Don't be fooled by the road condition, I was on a national highway. There were many trucks on the road and all of them have 1 obsession in common: they like honks; as you can see it spelled out at the back of the truck.
In India, there is never a dull moment. The bottom left was one that kept me snapping away, talking about harmonious road ethics. Then the kid. Making a living has no age limit in India.
Once a colony of the Mughal empire, Muslim articles are widespread in the country. Bottom: The sunset has a gloomy feel to it.
Top was an old fort left abandoned from the 19th century.
India will play host for the upcoming Commonwealth Game 2010, hence some road works for a better impression. Apparently, the project is way behind time and some one's bottom might just get fried.
Stopped by at a restaurant along the way for breakfast. This unassuming hut is called a "Dhaba". A joint for travelers to chill and fill up.
The bottom was an aloo (potato) paratha freshly baked out of a tandoor. The salted butter melted gracefully and it tastes heavenly! I thought having 2 of these were too little.
Finally stepped into the compound of the legendary Taj Mahal. It was a majestic view from afar but the crowd managed to swallow its pride. Khan? Who Khan?
One of the 7 wonders of the world. The marble wonders.
A long Q to pay respect to the deceased. Despite the respectful deed, I was amused when impatient visitors started cutting Q and leaped from one end to the other. The patient ones booed out loud. More giggles and laughter. I figured it's less boring that way.
Rumour has it that the body isn't in the so called 'tomb' but below it. I wished there could be a way to find out.
At 5:30pm. Things started to quiet down. Serenity sinks in.
Back in Bangalore
It was souvenirs buying time. Dropped by at one of the Saree boutiques and spotted a boy at work. This piece of silk Saree could potentially fetch tens of thousands of rupee. So, I didn't get any.
Hit the road again. This time, spotted the obvious. People usually do the opposite. After all, there is a rebellious streak in all of us. I wonder what they can't carry on a two wheeler.
Traffic is a giant bitch in India. This might make you think otherwise, it's just a camouflage.
As the saying goes, when in Rome, do what Romans do. In India, it's got to be the masala. My hospitable host got it going and served a pack of Maggi Masala for supper. As if it's not sinful enough, I had to add a slice of cheese on top.
Another day, another meal. This time, it was about chilling at tea/cafe with a serving of 'mo-mos', the Tibetan version of Dim Sum. I think there was masala rolled-in at some corners of the mo-mos.
Closer to my departure, I thought I should at least get active for once. So, I joined a tour called Bangalore Walks http://www.bangalorewalks.com/ in Lalbagh Botanical Garden http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lal_Bagh. Not exactly my cuppa but at least I got to work my calf muscles a little. Got introduced to numerous species of trees and flowers and fruits that I could recall none.
The legendary Glasshouse that hosts India's annual floral show.
Some locals hard at work.
Floras in Lal Bagh. Top right: one of many fig tree species in the garden. Bottom left: waxy fruit that looks and feels like a candle. Bottom right: a rotten fig tree. apparently, some snakes had made it a dwelling.
Some light refreshment. Middle was dried figs and left was my choice drink - spiced buttermilk. Tasted like milk with masala.
This could be the biggest cotton tree I've ever seen! It was said to be more than 600 years old.
This is a fruit with a shape like that of a mango. When it's dried, the outer shell makes great material for carving. Right was the masterpiece that belongs to the guide.
I wonder what its real use is.
A slice of dried fig tree bark could be medicinal for diabetic patients.
The second from left (top) is ylang-ylang, one of the key ingredients for Channel No. 5!
The walk started to bore me after 1.5 hours. However, I like how the walk ended. Visitors were taken to MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room), a restaurant aged more than 85 years old and was once famous among politicians and VVIPs in India. It was only 5 minutes walk from Lal Bagh garden.
Thanks to our guide for booking in advance, we got to stroll in like a VIP, passing a que of approximately 500-600 meters from downstairs' entrance to the first floor. Do drop by for their idli. It rocks! I heard about their bottomless banana leaf lunch where more than 40 dishes would be served. If you are adventurous enough, then, forget about the rest of your meals as this majestic feast could probably fill you up for a day or two. Get to know more http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mavalli_Tiffin_Room
Farewell
While waiting at Thrichi airport, witnessed an emotional departure. Dad seemed nonchalant while mom tried hard to fight her tears.
30,000 feet asl.
During this trip, I only explored tiny portions of India during my brief stay in Bangalore, Delhi, Agra and Tamil Nadu. India is truly Incredible. And it would take you a life time to truly appreciate its beauty.
Put aside your doubts, skepticism and expectation. Immerse in the culture and allow it to get close to you. India will amaze you.
Happy exploring!
