Rah Rah Rajasthan

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We left behind the heat, humidity and lush green scenery of the south to visit arid Rajasthan in January. Fortunately the drabness of the countryside was coloured by farmers in their multi-hued turbans and women in saris, while the many cities were decorated with colourful old quarters. Rajasthan is home to many forts and palaces used by the different maharajas during the good old days, and now they're great places to wander around to admire the ornate carvings, beautiful architecture, decadent living quarters and countless tiger hunting trophies, pictures and hides (of course, all done on elephants with a supporting army of men). The maharajas obviously needed some way to show their Raja-manhood.

Our first stop in Rajasthan was Udaipur, the setting for the Bond film "Octopussy". We planned to spend just a few days, but like Bond, we were taken in by the sights and scenery. Bond took care of all the evil-doers, so we just enjoyed a week of food, folks and fun.

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Photos

Two Cheers for Udaipur
Local hipsters working on their Criss-Cross moves.

Udaipur Palace
Home of Octopussy from the Bond film. Nice digs.

What sound does a Rajasthani cat make?
Udai-purrrrr

Playing 'Rocks'
Sylvie getting schooled in the local jacks game.

Rajasthani Dance
Women are not allowed to dance in public, therefore the role of women in traditional dancing is taken on by men. Check out his/her pipes.

Rajasthani Dancers
We're not sure of the role of young boys with fake moustaches.

Bovine Blockage
The lion may be the king of the jungle, but the cow owns the street.

Easy Rider
Nothing can get in her way when she's on the saddle.

Barber Maharaja
Getting a stylish cut and shave from 1971 Gold Cup award-winning barber in Udaipur.

Masterpiece
Sylvie with her painting guru at the local art ashram.