Arrival in Delhi

We arrived in Delhi midday Friday and after checking into our hotel headed out to look at Old Delhi. As we are based in New Delhi we were driving here first and on the main streets there are many embassies and military bases that look very grand. If you can catch a glimpse down some of the side roads though they do not always look so affluent! Anyhow, more on New Delhi later as today is more about Old Delhi.

So the first thing that strikes you as you get to Old Delhi from New Delhi is the lack of wealth and you walk into the India you always imagine. Small shops clambering together, lots of people, market stalls and properties in need of some serious repair!















However what also strikes you is how welcoming it is with everyone waving at you with big smiles. Our mouths were watering as we drove passed the Market stalls cooking up meals of chicken (and in some cases you could chose yours live!). It is a hive of activity and noise but absolutely amazing to see.



We viewed and toured around Jami Masjid, Indias largest mosque with soaring minarets and vast marble domes. It was built in 1656 by the Empreror Shah Jahan on a natural mound taking six years to complete. The huge courtyard can accommodate 20,000 prayers (ladies are to pray from the outer areas). a great piece of architect. Ladies, be warned, you have to wear specific gowns when entering!






















We then visited Raj Ghat the site of Gandhi's cremation. Many people come here to pay their respects to the memorial and it is a very grand and peaceful place. what is also lovely here is to see all the families out in the grounds playing on the grass and just enjoying the wide open spaces.



Weather wise, it is not very hot here at this time of year. Around 18 to 20 degrees. not quite what we expected and glad we brought a cardi with us as well!

This evening we ate in the hotel, and the meal was very nice but looking forward to staying at hotels nearer to town. The hotel we are at now is the Taj Hotel which is stunning but it is quite away out of town and away from any local restaurants which is disappointing. This evening a Wedding was being held at the hotel which included a street possession with fireworks, dancing and bands. Everyone was dressed in big colourful clothes and the atmosphere was amazing.

Early to bed as jet lagged and early start tomorrow for tour of New Delhi and drive to Agra.


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Location:Fatehabad Rd,Shamsabad,India