The Long Journey to Delhi…and the Greeting Upon Arrival
As we shared our plans to visit India over the past year the question we repeatedly got was “Why?” Objectively, one could recite the statistics: the World’s most populous country; home of some of Earth’s largest cities, neighbor to China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar; home to Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and others; one of the world’s largest economies; and more.
But, the truth is a little more complicated—it just seemed so exotic. And mysterious (at least to one of us).
Trips like this are always enjoyable, but they also are all about work. We began our plans for this journey a year ago, working with our trusted partners at Micato Safaris. Micato has been named the world’s best safari company ten times, and they are always our first choice when planning travel to Africa or India for our clients. Their attention to detail and the level of expertise they bring to the table sets the benchmark for our industry, and it is the sort of expertise that allows us to create unrivaled experiences for those who turn to Elán. This is the “why” of why Elán exists…to set the standard by which others in this business measure themselves, and thereby providing unrivaled experiences for our clients and theirs.
Ultimately our year of conversations and planning with Micato resulted in a 40-page itinerary, detailing a journey that would take us to some of India’s most renowned sites over a span of three weeks.
If our experiences inspire you, we’d suggest that you explore the possibility of a similar custom journey with Micato (https://www.micato.com/india/custom-journeys/).
Our journey began when we boarded our flights to Delhi aboard Etihad. Victoria had just returned the prior day from Japan, so this already epic journey was a bit more ambitious for her. We flew via Abu Dhabi and the level of service aboard Etihad was beyond reproach. Still, when we got to Delhi we were truly tired. Any hint of apprehension was immediately erased as we stepped off the plane and were met by a porter who took us immediately to the Immigration desk. After checking our e-visas against our passports we stepped outside, where we were met by Micato India’s Managing Director, Michael, and our Tour Director, Puneet. We knew at that point that we were in good hands…Puneet is actually a legendary figure in Indian tourism. More about that later.
We immediately drove to our first “home” in India, Leela Palace. There, as at every hotel we stayed during our trip, we received a warm welcome…anointed with oil and showered with rose petals. And now is the time to make the first important point of our post: At Leela Palace and every place we visited over the next three weeks we experienced an incomparable level of genuine warmth and hospitality. Obviously the staff is very well trained, but you know when someone really cares…and it was evident in every moment at this hotel and elsewhere.
We were directed to our elegant, beautifully decorated suite, had a fantastic light dinner that Puneet ordered for us, then retired for the evening.
Mindful of the fact that a play by play could amount to drudgery, some of the highlights of our time in Delhi included a rickshaw ride through the old city, a tour of New Delhi, including its impressive government complex and the mansions of billionaires, and a visit to Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Also, extremely noteworthy, we visited a large Sikh temple where we observed the singing of hymns and the preparation of a communal meal that is provided to thousands daily without charge, reflecting the Sikh values of service to others.
One could spend a lifetime and never fully explore Delhi…it covers an area of 573 square miles and is home to 35 million inhabitants. But, in the span of two days we were able to grasp a bit of it. We saw a fair amount of the city, but what we found most surprising was the expanse of green space, the number of universities, and the prevalence of wealth in some parts of the city. As a counterpoint, we also experienced incredibly busy streets, many of which were inhabited with small shops and street food vendors.
(Note that you can see a larger version of any of the photos we’ve included by clicking on them; some were taken in portrait, so you’ll need to click on those photos to see them in full.)
But, the truth is a little more complicated—it just seemed so exotic. And mysterious (at least to one of us).
Trips like this are always enjoyable, but they also are all about work. We began our plans for this journey a year ago, working with our trusted partners at Micato Safaris. Micato has been named the world’s best safari company ten times, and they are always our first choice when planning travel to Africa or India for our clients. Their attention to detail and the level of expertise they bring to the table sets the benchmark for our industry, and it is the sort of expertise that allows us to create unrivaled experiences for those who turn to Elán. This is the “why” of why Elán exists…to set the standard by which others in this business measure themselves, and thereby providing unrivaled experiences for our clients and theirs.
Ultimately our year of conversations and planning with Micato resulted in a 40-page itinerary, detailing a journey that would take us to some of India’s most renowned sites over a span of three weeks.
If our experiences inspire you, we’d suggest that you explore the possibility of a similar custom journey with Micato (https://www.micato.com/india/custom-journeys/).
Our journey began when we boarded our flights to Delhi aboard Etihad. Victoria had just returned the prior day from Japan, so this already epic journey was a bit more ambitious for her. We flew via Abu Dhabi and the level of service aboard Etihad was beyond reproach. Still, when we got to Delhi we were truly tired. Any hint of apprehension was immediately erased as we stepped off the plane and were met by a porter who took us immediately to the Immigration desk. After checking our e-visas against our passports we stepped outside, where we were met by Micato India’s Managing Director, Michael, and our Tour Director, Puneet. We knew at that point that we were in good hands…Puneet is actually a legendary figure in Indian tourism. More about that later.
We immediately drove to our first “home” in India, Leela Palace. There, as at every hotel we stayed during our trip, we received a warm welcome…anointed with oil and showered with rose petals. And now is the time to make the first important point of our post: At Leela Palace and every place we visited over the next three weeks we experienced an incomparable level of genuine warmth and hospitality. Obviously the staff is very well trained, but you know when someone really cares…and it was evident in every moment at this hotel and elsewhere.
We were directed to our elegant, beautifully decorated suite, had a fantastic light dinner that Puneet ordered for us, then retired for the evening.
Mindful of the fact that a play by play could amount to drudgery, some of the highlights of our time in Delhi included a rickshaw ride through the old city, a tour of New Delhi, including its impressive government complex and the mansions of billionaires, and a visit to Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Also, extremely noteworthy, we visited a large Sikh temple where we observed the singing of hymns and the preparation of a communal meal that is provided to thousands daily without charge, reflecting the Sikh values of service to others.
One could spend a lifetime and never fully explore Delhi…it covers an area of 573 square miles and is home to 35 million inhabitants. But, in the span of two days we were able to grasp a bit of it. We saw a fair amount of the city, but what we found most surprising was the expanse of green space, the number of universities, and the prevalence of wealth in some parts of the city. As a counterpoint, we also experienced incredibly busy streets, many of which were inhabited with small shops and street food vendors.
(Note that you can see a larger version of any of the photos we’ve included by clicking on them; some were taken in portrait, so you’ll need to click on those photos to see them in full.)
On to Agra and Ranthambore National Park
Leaving Delhi, we ventured on to Agra. The drive from Delhi revealed a different side of India, as we passed lively villages, farm machinery fabricated from diesel pump engines, and even the occasional camel. The arrival in Agra brought us to the beautiful Oberoi Amarvilas. Upon entering the lobby, we were immediately surrounded by the incredible luxury that distinguishes the hotel as one of the world’s finest. And the view! The Taj Mahal can be seen from the lobby…and from every room and suite. See the photos below for more.
We ventured to the Taj Mahal twice, once the following morning and once in the evening. Truthfully, it’s emotionally overwhelming. The building itself is a monument to love, built by Emperor Shah Jahan, fifth of the great Mughals, in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. But as you approach the Taj Mahal you find yourself awestruck by the magnificence of the building itself. Built of white marble with a soaring dome and towers, it’s impressive from afar. But, as you get closer you see the incredible attention to minute detail in the form of tens of thousands of intricate designs of inlaid semiprecious stones. We spent some time there and returned later in the day. As the sun hits the monument from a different direction, the stone takes on a soft, almost rosey appearance. We had two truly memorable dinners at the Oberoi Amarvilas. The first was on our private patio overlooking the Taj Mahal. On the second evening we were treated to a stunning candlelit dinner set in the beautiful grounds of the hotel, while we were treated to dance and music performed by local artists. This is truly an amazing hotel, beautiful in every respect and situated in a location unique in the world.
The morning after our second dinner, I have to admit to being a bit overwhelmed as we prepared to leave. Looking out from our balcony for our last glimpse was one of those times when we both realized that we had experienced something magical, an experience we had waited for for a lifetime…and that it might never again be repeated. It brings a lump to you throat…a mixture of awe, gratitude, and even a bit of mourning as you leave it behind.
But, as we left the Oberoi Amarvilas we knew we were heading to another great adventure, a visit to Ranthambore National Park. Our accommodations for the next two nights were in the tented encampment of the Oberoi Vanyavilas. Again…as happened repeatedly…we were showered with rose petals and given a blessing as we arrived. Our tent was, in truth, more like a luxurious personal lodge, beautifully appointed. Our meals at the main lodge were, as one would expect, incredible.
But the highlights were our jeep trips into Ranthambore. We ventured into the park three times. The first, one the evening of our arrival, introduced us to deer, antelopes, an assortment of native birds, and a few alligators.
The greatest treasures were on the second day. While there’s never a guarantee, we were fortunate enough to encounter bengal tigers, a leopard, and sloth bears…along with an assortment of other creatures, great and small. We have to acknowledge the expertise of our guide, but also our good fortune.
We ventured to the Taj Mahal twice, once the following morning and once in the evening. Truthfully, it’s emotionally overwhelming. The building itself is a monument to love, built by Emperor Shah Jahan, fifth of the great Mughals, in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. But as you approach the Taj Mahal you find yourself awestruck by the magnificence of the building itself. Built of white marble with a soaring dome and towers, it’s impressive from afar. But, as you get closer you see the incredible attention to minute detail in the form of tens of thousands of intricate designs of inlaid semiprecious stones. We spent some time there and returned later in the day. As the sun hits the monument from a different direction, the stone takes on a soft, almost rosey appearance. We had two truly memorable dinners at the Oberoi Amarvilas. The first was on our private patio overlooking the Taj Mahal. On the second evening we were treated to a stunning candlelit dinner set in the beautiful grounds of the hotel, while we were treated to dance and music performed by local artists. This is truly an amazing hotel, beautiful in every respect and situated in a location unique in the world.
The morning after our second dinner, I have to admit to being a bit overwhelmed as we prepared to leave. Looking out from our balcony for our last glimpse was one of those times when we both realized that we had experienced something magical, an experience we had waited for for a lifetime…and that it might never again be repeated. It brings a lump to you throat…a mixture of awe, gratitude, and even a bit of mourning as you leave it behind.
But, as we left the Oberoi Amarvilas we knew we were heading to another great adventure, a visit to Ranthambore National Park. Our accommodations for the next two nights were in the tented encampment of the Oberoi Vanyavilas. Again…as happened repeatedly…we were showered with rose petals and given a blessing as we arrived. Our tent was, in truth, more like a luxurious personal lodge, beautifully appointed. Our meals at the main lodge were, as one would expect, incredible.
But the highlights were our jeep trips into Ranthambore. We ventured into the park three times. The first, one the evening of our arrival, introduced us to deer, antelopes, an assortment of native birds, and a few alligators.
The greatest treasures were on the second day. While there’s never a guarantee, we were fortunate enough to encounter bengal tigers, a leopard, and sloth bears…along with an assortment of other creatures, great and small. We have to acknowledge the expertise of our guide, but also our good fortune.
Beautiful Jaipur
| The four hour drive to Jaipur provided us another fascinating look at rural India. On this day, as on others, Puneet sometimes spontaneously stopped our driver and leapt from the van, leading us to discuss life with local residents. This is among the qualities that makes Micato so exceptional—yes, there’s a tremendous amount of planning that goes into a journey of this sort, but each day is crafted to the interests of their guests and tour directors are empowered to alter each day’s activities when an exceptional opportunity presents itself. Upon arriving the Rambagh Palace, we were amazed to find ourselves at yet another beautiful palace hotel. The grounds are impeccable and the Palace itself reflects the grandeur of its royal pedigree. We soon set out on a tour of the”Pink City,” so named because it was painted pink to honor the visit of the Prince of Wales in the 1800s. Many of the old city’s walls and buildings still maintain the same color. A visit to the City Palace provided a close up view of the opulence of the lives led by the royals. Returning to Rambagh Palace we dined in the incredible setting of the Suvarna Mahal, the dining room of the Royal Family of Jaipur. The next morning we arose early to take a hot air balloon ride over the undulating hills of the region (be sure to check out the photo of the Elán balloon!), after which we embarked on a Jeep safari through a Samode village, then wrapped up the day with an exclusive private dinner at the home of a noble family. This dinner, in which the prince walked us through the history of his family and detailed the preparation of the evening’s meal, was one of innumerable unique experiences arranged by Micato. Frankly, every day was like this—occasions that virtually no other visitors to India has access to, a reflection of Micato’s unique reach and the esteem in which they are held throughout the country. Our stay in Jaipur was the longest in one city, and it was well worth it. Our visit to the Amber Fort the following day provided a completely unique perspective on the immense wealth and power once held by India’s royalty. During the course of the preceding days one of our colleagues had mentioned via a social media post a favorite hotel of hers, so Puneet—ever willing to turn on a dime—took us there. Another delicious meal; another forever memory. But that was not to be outdone by our final adventure in Jaipur, a visit to a private reserve where elephants who once served in the tourist trade are given sanctuary. A walk with the elephants was followed by one of the most incredible exhibitions of local dance and a meal under the stars. |
Udaipur and the Lake Palace
The considerable distance to our next destination, Udaipur, required us to take a brief and comfortable flight.
Since returning we’ve mentioned to everyone we’ve talked to about our trip our experience with the kindness and generosity of the Indian people. This flight revealed it in a simple and touching encounter with an 11 year old boy who was seated next to us on the flight, traveling to Udaipur as an unaccompanied minor. During the flight he ordered a Coke and we offered to pay. He politely refused and made it clear that he actually wanted three Cokes! Once the flight attendant brought them and he paid, he presented each of us with one of the Coca-Colas he had ordered, proclaiming “It is my duty,” suggesting he was obliged by faith and tradition to show kindness to visitors. We thanked him and as we left the plane, he bowed and touched Victoria’s foot with his hand as a show of respect. This was an experience that was on the one hand minor, but on the other hand revealed what we saw of the Indian spirit—kindness, generosity, and respect. It was truly humbling.
Upon arrival at the airport, our driver Gulab was waiting for us—again with his immaculate (and perfectly stocked) white van. We made our way to our next hotel, the Lake Palace, a gleaming oasis in the middle of Lake Pichola, accessible only by boat. We had breakfast with Puneet, then set out on our exploration of this truly beautiful city. Much of the India we saw was chaotic, but Udaipur, particularly the area near the lake and the City Palace, was immaculate. We toured the nearby temples of Elingli and Nagda, which date back to the fourth century.
We continued on to Devigarh Fort Palace, a unique hotel set a distance from the city, where we partook of a demonstration of local cooking. This area is particularly beautiful, set among rolling hills punctuated by temples and some very nice homes that serve as retreats for for the fortunate.
We have to confess that this was one of our favorite cities…and the fact that we got to spend much of it in a truly lovely palace in the middle of a beautiful lake made it more than exceptional. Here, as in every place we stayed, the staff went above and beyond to make every aspect of our stay comfortable.
We were truly treated like royalty. It is, it seems, the Indian way.
Since returning we’ve mentioned to everyone we’ve talked to about our trip our experience with the kindness and generosity of the Indian people. This flight revealed it in a simple and touching encounter with an 11 year old boy who was seated next to us on the flight, traveling to Udaipur as an unaccompanied minor. During the flight he ordered a Coke and we offered to pay. He politely refused and made it clear that he actually wanted three Cokes! Once the flight attendant brought them and he paid, he presented each of us with one of the Coca-Colas he had ordered, proclaiming “It is my duty,” suggesting he was obliged by faith and tradition to show kindness to visitors. We thanked him and as we left the plane, he bowed and touched Victoria’s foot with his hand as a show of respect. This was an experience that was on the one hand minor, but on the other hand revealed what we saw of the Indian spirit—kindness, generosity, and respect. It was truly humbling.
Upon arrival at the airport, our driver Gulab was waiting for us—again with his immaculate (and perfectly stocked) white van. We made our way to our next hotel, the Lake Palace, a gleaming oasis in the middle of Lake Pichola, accessible only by boat. We had breakfast with Puneet, then set out on our exploration of this truly beautiful city. Much of the India we saw was chaotic, but Udaipur, particularly the area near the lake and the City Palace, was immaculate. We toured the nearby temples of Elingli and Nagda, which date back to the fourth century.
We continued on to Devigarh Fort Palace, a unique hotel set a distance from the city, where we partook of a demonstration of local cooking. This area is particularly beautiful, set among rolling hills punctuated by temples and some very nice homes that serve as retreats for for the fortunate.
We have to confess that this was one of our favorite cities…and the fact that we got to spend much of it in a truly lovely palace in the middle of a beautiful lake made it more than exceptional. Here, as in every place we stayed, the staff went above and beyond to make every aspect of our stay comfortable.
We were truly treated like royalty. It is, it seems, the Indian way.
Jodhpur and the Celebration of Holi
We had a considerable drive to get to our next destination, Jodhpur. In some parts of the world the roadside sights can be fairly mundane, but that is never the case in India. Along the way, we passed alongside camels, elephants, and endless array of shops and cafes, and more than a few gaudily decorated trucks, tractors and scooters driving on the wrong side of the road…it’s all just part of the ever-surprising panorama of Indian life. As a nod to Mike’s penchant for motorcycling, Puneet arranged for a stop at a shrine commemorating a motorcycle that was imbued with mystical powers following a crash that took the life of its owner many years ago. It’s a pilgrimage for Indian motorcyclists, but largely unknown to the rest of the world, and was just one example of how Puneet crafted our itinerary and experiences every day (on another occasion Puneet arranged for a Royal Enfield motorcycle to be brought to our hotel, so Mike could ride it around the grounds…to the rather great alarm of the security staff!!).
Our arrival at the Umaid Bhawan Palace was truly an epic experience in a thoroughly epic trip. Escorted into the grounds by horse-mounted guards, we felt once again as though we were royalty ourselves. Pulling up to the Palace, once the largest private home in the world, we found ourselves awestruck by the size and magnificence of one of the world’s great hotels, designed and built in the art deco style.
We didn’t have much time to adjust, however, as we were informed that we had been invited to a cocktail reception with the Royal Family. It was truly a wonderful introduction, and we were greeted by the King and Queen as though we were lifelong friends. After a bit of time with them and other invitees, we returned to our suite to prepare for the midnight procession to a bonfire marking the beginning of Holi. The ceremony was marked by blessings, dancing, and music, with the bonfire being lit by the Maharaja as the ceremony drew to its climactic conclusion.
The next morning was truly the dawn of Holi, as well as Mike’s birthday (!). We had been provided with white suits and after breakfast proceeded to a separate location on the grounds to once again celebrate with the Royals. The tossing of colored powders, fireworks, raucous music, and a general atmosphere of revelry marked this party of all parties. It was festive beyond belief, and accompanied by a wonderful array of Indian cuisine.
But there was more. That evening we were asked to meet in the impressive rotunda to prepare for a meal that was well beyond anything we have ever experienced. We were both treated to a bit of royal treatment—a turban and sword for Mike, jewelry for Victoria. Then we were led to the beautiful gardens where musicians awaited while we dined on one of the more impressive meals we’ve ever been served. It was a little hard to keep track, but there were more than 20 dishes, as well as a birthday cake, the cutting of which was accompanied by fireworks!
Our arrival at the Umaid Bhawan Palace was truly an epic experience in a thoroughly epic trip. Escorted into the grounds by horse-mounted guards, we felt once again as though we were royalty ourselves. Pulling up to the Palace, once the largest private home in the world, we found ourselves awestruck by the size and magnificence of one of the world’s great hotels, designed and built in the art deco style.
We didn’t have much time to adjust, however, as we were informed that we had been invited to a cocktail reception with the Royal Family. It was truly a wonderful introduction, and we were greeted by the King and Queen as though we were lifelong friends. After a bit of time with them and other invitees, we returned to our suite to prepare for the midnight procession to a bonfire marking the beginning of Holi. The ceremony was marked by blessings, dancing, and music, with the bonfire being lit by the Maharaja as the ceremony drew to its climactic conclusion.
The next morning was truly the dawn of Holi, as well as Mike’s birthday (!). We had been provided with white suits and after breakfast proceeded to a separate location on the grounds to once again celebrate with the Royals. The tossing of colored powders, fireworks, raucous music, and a general atmosphere of revelry marked this party of all parties. It was festive beyond belief, and accompanied by a wonderful array of Indian cuisine.
But there was more. That evening we were asked to meet in the impressive rotunda to prepare for a meal that was well beyond anything we have ever experienced. We were both treated to a bit of royal treatment—a turban and sword for Mike, jewelry for Victoria. Then we were led to the beautiful gardens where musicians awaited while we dined on one of the more impressive meals we’ve ever been served. It was a little hard to keep track, but there were more than 20 dishes, as well as a birthday cake, the cutting of which was accompanied by fireworks!
Varanasi
From Jodhpur we flew to Varanasi. Again, the Micato touch was evident as every aspect of our transfer, air tickets, and handling of luggage were handled seamlessly by Puneet and his associates. It’s kind of the Micato way—the potentially challenging bits are all taken care of, and their guests are allowed to enjoy the journey unimpeded by concerns with logistics.
Varanasi…where to start? We had experienced plenty of the chaos of India up to this point—frenetic traffic with scooters competing with camels, elephants and tractors was, it seemed, the norm. But Varanasi turns it up a notch or two. It is the ultimate spiritual destination for those of the Hindu faith, situated on the banks of the Ganges River. It is here that millions come on pilgrimages, to bathe in the waters of the holiest of rivers, to commune with holy men, and in some instances to say farewell to those who have completed their mortal journey. Carnival rides compete for attention with funeral pyres. Commerce thrives alongside holy men of deep devotion. The throngs surging to the River are a force of nature.
It is the sum of all humanity.
In writing this, it is the one place that induced writer’s block. The sensations are overwhelming. Varanasi will astound you. And, regardless of your faith (or lack thereof), it is the one place on Earth that you should visit in this lifetime. We are not of the Hindu faith, but you cannot help but be overwhelmed by the spectacle of the morning ceremony of priests welcoming the morning sun, or by the utter devotion to family and natural forces manifested by traditions that stretch back over millennia.
We cruised the river (twice) and the sights were impressive—men and women bathing in the holy waters of the Ganges, religious ceremonies on the banks, and tented encampments surrounded by camels that are not movie sets…they are simply the reality of Varanasi.
After our first full day outing in the City, Puneet urged us to freshen up and meet him in the lobby. From there he led us outside for one of the most touching occasions in a journey that was filled with touching occasions, a Hindu ceremony performed by two priests, celebrating our 48 years of marriage.
We also had a truly interest experience in Varanasi. After being led through a labyrinth of streets and Alleys by Puneet we arrived at a private residence where we were treated to a private performance by one of India’s most famous musicians and his students. I guarantee that this is not something you will find in any of the guide books. Only Micato. And notably, upon learning of the fact that one of the young men who had performed for us was facing the difficulty of having recently lost both of his parents, Puneet spontaneously declared that Micato would sponsor his studies going forward. The Micato Way. The Indian Way. The way we should all live.
That’s it, all I can write about Varanasi. Our photos may give a bit of a glimpse into this most amazing of cities, but you will never understand until you visit. And you must visit.
Varanasi…where to start? We had experienced plenty of the chaos of India up to this point—frenetic traffic with scooters competing with camels, elephants and tractors was, it seemed, the norm. But Varanasi turns it up a notch or two. It is the ultimate spiritual destination for those of the Hindu faith, situated on the banks of the Ganges River. It is here that millions come on pilgrimages, to bathe in the waters of the holiest of rivers, to commune with holy men, and in some instances to say farewell to those who have completed their mortal journey. Carnival rides compete for attention with funeral pyres. Commerce thrives alongside holy men of deep devotion. The throngs surging to the River are a force of nature.
It is the sum of all humanity.
In writing this, it is the one place that induced writer’s block. The sensations are overwhelming. Varanasi will astound you. And, regardless of your faith (or lack thereof), it is the one place on Earth that you should visit in this lifetime. We are not of the Hindu faith, but you cannot help but be overwhelmed by the spectacle of the morning ceremony of priests welcoming the morning sun, or by the utter devotion to family and natural forces manifested by traditions that stretch back over millennia.
We cruised the river (twice) and the sights were impressive—men and women bathing in the holy waters of the Ganges, religious ceremonies on the banks, and tented encampments surrounded by camels that are not movie sets…they are simply the reality of Varanasi.
After our first full day outing in the City, Puneet urged us to freshen up and meet him in the lobby. From there he led us outside for one of the most touching occasions in a journey that was filled with touching occasions, a Hindu ceremony performed by two priests, celebrating our 48 years of marriage.
We also had a truly interest experience in Varanasi. After being led through a labyrinth of streets and Alleys by Puneet we arrived at a private residence where we were treated to a private performance by one of India’s most famous musicians and his students. I guarantee that this is not something you will find in any of the guide books. Only Micato. And notably, upon learning of the fact that one of the young men who had performed for us was facing the difficulty of having recently lost both of his parents, Puneet spontaneously declared that Micato would sponsor his studies going forward. The Micato Way. The Indian Way. The way we should all live.
That’s it, all I can write about Varanasi. Our photos may give a bit of a glimpse into this most amazing of cities, but you will never understand until you visit. And you must visit.
Mumbai
Mumbai is the perfect city to end a journey of this sort. It’s a huge city, home to fishermen and billionaires. A center of education and culture. Situated on a magnificent seashore. Our final hotel was the Oberoi Mumbai, a thoroughly modern luxury hotel that provided the perfect venue to reflect on a nearly three week trip through India. We visited a couple of truly extraordinary restaurants, did an early morning tour of the markets, visited some of city’s more unique sights, and even a museum that houses truly extraordinary cultural and artistic treasures.
We shared tea with earnest workers preparing newspapers for distribution, walked among fishmongers whose traditions date back centuries, and visited a famed outdoor laundry. The flower market was a riot of color, with hundreds of thousands of beautiful blooms on display. The spice market offered insight into the culinary traditions of everyday Indian households. We drove by the world’s most costly private home (built at a cost of $2 billion), and walked with those of the most modest means. While a little more sedate in some respects than other places we had visited, Mumbai still offered the now-expected unexpected at nearly every turn.
We shared tea with earnest workers preparing newspapers for distribution, walked among fishmongers whose traditions date back centuries, and visited a famed outdoor laundry. The flower market was a riot of color, with hundreds of thousands of beautiful blooms on display. The spice market offered insight into the culinary traditions of everyday Indian households. We drove by the world’s most costly private home (built at a cost of $2 billion), and walked with those of the most modest means. While a little more sedate in some respects than other places we had visited, Mumbai still offered the now-expected unexpected at nearly every turn.
Final Thoughts
We lost track of how many times we used the word “amazing” on this journey. The array of beautiful sights, historical palaces, and new cultural experiences was incredible, almost to the point of being overwhelming. What we’ve presented here is merely a glimpse of what we experienced. We covered thousands of miles on the road and in the air. One small indication of the breadth of sights and experiences that we encountered is the fact that we amassed over 2,000 photographs.
As we boarded the first of our two flights to return home, we have to confess a bit of sadness as we left behind one of the most wondrous places on Earth. Every day in India had been filled with something new…and almost always unexpected. The traditions of kindness and generosity were a constant, set amidst the contrast of grand palaces, magnificent temples, and many people of humble means. In India, one’s senses are constantly switched to “full on,” lest you miss something of significance. Truthfully, without the steady guidance of our Travel Director and now dear friend Puneet, we would have missed most of it. Not only did Puneet guide us through every one of the sights we had worked into our itinerary, he (and no doubt the crew of Micato) arranged for several magical moments that were wholly unexpected…a motorcycle ride, a visit to one of the country’s most renowned musicians, and introductions to royalty (in their homes) were experiences that we never expected or could have anticipated.
Tigers…royal processions…touching exchanges with everyday people. India is magical, mystical, and above all else, the ultimate expression of the human experience. Our description is but a feeble attempt to capture some of the highlights. You can only comprehend the splendor once you’ve lived it.
However you do it, get there in your lifetime. And if you want to do it in a way that deepens and enriches your experience make sure you plan your visit with our dear friends at Micato.
As we boarded the first of our two flights to return home, we have to confess a bit of sadness as we left behind one of the most wondrous places on Earth. Every day in India had been filled with something new…and almost always unexpected. The traditions of kindness and generosity were a constant, set amidst the contrast of grand palaces, magnificent temples, and many people of humble means. In India, one’s senses are constantly switched to “full on,” lest you miss something of significance. Truthfully, without the steady guidance of our Travel Director and now dear friend Puneet, we would have missed most of it. Not only did Puneet guide us through every one of the sights we had worked into our itinerary, he (and no doubt the crew of Micato) arranged for several magical moments that were wholly unexpected…a motorcycle ride, a visit to one of the country’s most renowned musicians, and introductions to royalty (in their homes) were experiences that we never expected or could have anticipated.
Tigers…royal processions…touching exchanges with everyday people. India is magical, mystical, and above all else, the ultimate expression of the human experience. Our description is but a feeble attempt to capture some of the highlights. You can only comprehend the splendor once you’ve lived it.
However you do it, get there in your lifetime. And if you want to do it in a way that deepens and enriches your experience make sure you plan your visit with our dear friends at Micato.