We take a late afternoon train and arrive in Jaipur that evening.  As the tuk tuk winds its way through the streets, past a cow standing in the middle of a heep of garbage I can’t help but wonder what kind of hotel we’re in for. To my surprise we enter through metal gates and up the drive into a very different world. Our hotel for this stay is a lovely old heritage palace. The main building is full of amazing antiques and feels like a step back in time.  In the back there is a large pool and and chairs to relax in, an oasis from the noise and bustle just outside the gates.  There is an apartment for the family but the remainder is set up for the hotel guests. 

Guest house grounds

The next morning we’re off to see the Red Fort with a stop along the way to see the Wind Palace. Driving in a tuk tuk always makes me feel more up close and aware of what’s around as you weave through the traffic. You can’t escape the sounds and smells and occasional gasp as you come near inches away from a passing bus, car or cow. It’s amazing how these drivers do it but with a honk of the horn the chaos seems to sort itself out.  Other things we’ve passed by today are cows, goats, camels and elephants just on the side if the road!

Wind Palace

Arriving at the fort we hop out and gaze up the hill, this is a massive place. A parade of elephants ferry people up the path, no one in our group wants to partake in this activity. Seems unfair to the elephants as they aren’t really geared for climbing.

Really hard to capture the grandeur of this place

Up we go dodging elephants and fending off vendors wanting to sell their wares. This place is huge, the walls of the city visible in the distance hills. 
Jaipur is a great place, full of gems to find and explore. So different from Delhi with a way more relaxed feel. This is starting to feel more like the India I came to see and experience.

Water Palace

We have some days here to explore and take in the sights

A sewing machine shop