February 23, 2019 -
“People don’t take trips, trips take people.” – John Steinbeck
Today was a very full day. I didn’t think it was going to be at first. We are only in Jodhpur for a day. But we got some rest and made the most of it. I took a lot of really great shots most of which you will find on Instagram.
Our day started with Mehrangarth Fort, a towering edifice that overlooks the old city. Built in 1460, the fort is another example of on of the ruling Rajput Kings that dominated this area before the Mughals invaded. It was beautiful , well maintained, and afforded grand views.
Jodhpur is known as ‘The Blue City’. It gets this name from the paint on much of the old city. The blue color is cooling and helps the locals deal with the searing heat in summer. It can and often does reach greater than 110 degrees here.
We walked along the maze of alleys in the old city getting lost in the rich and vibrant atmosphere. It was a real pleasure and an experience we will treasure from this adventure.
We then found our way to Toorji Ka Jhalra, shown above. This is another ancient step well, but this time it had water in it forming a deep pool of blue green water. There we found teenage boys oblivious to the onlookers swimming and diving in the water. Some of these dives were from heights of 60 feet! Was it hazardous? Hell yes ! But we loved watching the foolish bravado the boys displayed as they tried to outdo each other. To witness such joy was a privilege.
We finished our day at a hole in the wall cafe run by a very dignified Indian gentleman named Susski. He spoke flawless English and told stories of his life in Nigeria before returning to India.
It was a good day. Tomorrow we leave for Jaisalmer.
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