Temples, temples and more temples.

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We left the cool hills Kerela and went down into the steamy flatlands of Tamil Nadu. The weather went from 20C to about 35C in less than an hour.

The state of Tamil Nadu has an incredible number of temples. Big ones small ones, some in huge complexes and some just a few feet high on the side of the road.

We had a major culture shock in Madurai. It was big, overpopulated and grim. If it didn't have 2 fabulous temples, we would have avoided it completely. Our first disapointment in India. Luckily the next day we traveled north to Trichy. A lovely city that gave us back our enthusiasm.

Tomorrow it's on to Pondicherry, the old French territory on the Bay of Bengal.

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Photos

Faces of Tamil Nadu
The children are always eager to pose for photos.

Flower Markets of Tamil Nadur
Along every road there are flower markets. The entire population wears flowers. On their heads on their cars and hanging from their doors and windows.

Impromtu cooking class.
Lesley gets a few pointers from a roadside chef.

The temples of Trichy
These colourful temples and towers go on forever. this complex had 21 towers.

Everyone is a critic.
The elephant thought that my hair needed a good combing.

Elephants and Castles
The "Big Temple" was built in the tenth century, and was finished in 6 years.

Comments

[ToddG]

Which one
is the elephant? Pics look great..keep them coming..

[Ed]

Awesome
Looks like you're having a great time and seeing a lot of interesting sights. Have fun - enjoy the rest of your trip and keep sending photos and blogs, they're great!! Ed

[Kevin Fisher]

Hey Les and Les, looks like you are having a great time. Les, maybe the elephant thought you were related. Don't complain too much about the heat there while we continue to get snow here! Love the photos, keep em coming. Travel safe. Kevin

[anonymous]

WoW! Everything looks fantastic. Love looking at the pictures-can't wait to test the cooking!! XO