Delhi Belly, Monuments and Festivals

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Another good day. Well sort of.

After writing last entry been struggling with uncomfortable stomach cramps and lack of sleep.

Festivals, Temples and Pizza!

Despite feeling delicate and knackered, we hired a taxi for the day - about 8pounds! He took us to various places suggested by my local friend Shreya. The highlight was Humayouns Temple - the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. After seeing this I can wait to see the Taj. The Temple today was spectacular. Architecturally fascinating, every building composed of repeated patterns of 8 - a lucky Islamic number. Whichever structure - there were 8 arches, 24 steps, 16 windows - octagonal temples.

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We have been lucky today as it is the culmination of a national holiday and long weekend of celebrations of the life of Muhattma Gandhi. We have just witnessed a very colourful parade through the towns main sqaure - Connaught Square - designed by British Architect Luyten at the height of the British Raj.

Experienced lots of families and coulpes enjoying their day off in various local parks. The Indian children are very cheeky, friendly kids who say things like "Good day to you Sir!" in the Queens English and then shake your hand. All in all a really good day - topped off by some local cuisine to pacify Delhi Belly. A Pizza Hut! (What a cop out - but my stomach flipped just smelling local grub!)

Early train and Taj Mahal tomorrow. Write more soon. Photos to be uploaded to site as soon as we find a computer that runs on electricity and not steam.

Laters,

Mr. James Sir.