On route to Hampi ~ 525kms south of Hyderabad

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Volunteer India - A journey beyond the Orphanage.

Wasn't sure how the journey to Hampi would result based on the way it started.

I woke with an upset stomach - the first time I have felt off since arriving in India 6 weeks ago. Incredibly dizzy with a strange rash on my body. The rash is gone but the dizziness continues. I booked an autorickshaw to pick me up at the orphanage 2 hours prior to my overnight train departure. After 1/2hr and the driver not answering his cell, I knew an alternate was required, so off I went on the back of a motorcycle to the main crossroads where another driver would meet me. The ride on the cycle was scary -dark (no street lights in the village) no helmet, sitting sideways as is the custom for women riding shotgun here, juggling an akward shoulder bag packed for a 3 day journey and to top it off my driver talking on his cell phone while navigating pot holes bigger than small bathtubs. Oh and bugs and dust - this country is soooo dusty.

The ride in the auto was interesting as I have not seen Hyderabad at night especially during rush hour. Funny thing happened on the way. Down the middle of a busy highway lined 4-6 cars wide (supposed to be 3) a man was leading 2 camels down the centre. Wish I could have captured on film as it was hilarious. The line of traffic behind them stretched for miles. Surprised he was not run off the road. After an hour in the rickshaw, I made it to the train station with just enough time to find my platform for departure.

Lucky me my 2nd class air conditioned upper berth was situated in the emergency row exit so the hot florescent light stayed on all night - at least it kept me warm but annoying light. The 2nd class ticket came complete with two freshly laundered bed sheets and a towel. I skipped the towel it was kind of grimy despite being clean. I shared the 4 person compartment with a crying baby and a very overweight business man who slept in the upper berth across from me and snored all night. I kept cranking up my ipod but I could still hear him - needless to say I didn't sleep at all. The best thing is my 3 berthmates left early in the morning so I had the compartment to myself and watched the sunrise over the beautiful landscape on route into Hampi.

Hampi is magical. An old ancient city (settled in the early 1300's and destroyed in the 1500's by siege). The ruins sit among the most amazing huge boulders left from volcanic activity 1000's (maybe millions) of years ago. The site is an UNESCO World Heritage site and well preserved and signed. I spent the first day here just wandering the main temples. Truly wonderful.

Woke early today to wander the village. Its the most interesting part of the day when the world comes alive. Makeshift beds being dismantled, people brushing their teeth (yuck), goats being prepped for the daily grazing. I spent the morn on the rocks at the east end of Hampi sitting quietly when I was joined by a saddu (spiritual man) and a cook from a local restaurant who brought us both chai. Very moving to sit there in silence enjoying a spiritual moment of peace. On my way back to the village, I joined a boy at a game of frissbee played with a really sharpe piece of tin (no catching possible but good long throws possible), watched an elaborate puja at the main temple, watched the bathing at the river ghats, saw Luksumi the temple elephant get prepped for her day - she blows kisses to worshipers and tourists inside the temple and enjoyed my first cup of chai sans sugar - blissful.

Cultural observation - Indians are the most agile and best motorcycle riders in the world! I am amazed how they navigate they navigate traffic and stop on a dime. Truly a talent.

Check out the NGO that I am volunteering with. Here is the website Child Haven

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Photos

A solitary morning
Breathtaking beauty.

A stone chariot
Just imagine - this actually worked at one time. Amazing engineering.

The Saddu I had chai with
On route to a temple

The Royal Elephant Stables
A view of the royal elephant stables. Each archway is carved uniquely - neat.

A wee round boat
I took this boat down the fast moving river in Hampi. So much fun.

Lotus Mahal
A place where the queens of the palace (yes plural) would while away the day. I can see how it could be so relaxing. Beautiful building.

Comments

[Summer]

Awesome!
Very cool! Wow what an experience. Miss you!