River Rafting

Another early start with no breakfast. Thank goodness for the travel kettle and some coffee granules. It was goodbye to our bus driver as we took the train from Agra to Jhansi, a two and a half hour journey. The train was on time, we had free water given to us, a hot breakfast was served airline style and we arrived on time - quite a contrast with our recent trip to London on the East Coast mainline. There was then another bus to Orchha, a tourist resort beside a river. The town dates back to the 16th century and there are many temples and palaces dotted around, mostly ruined but still impressive. Our hotel was right by the river and surrounded by ancient buildings. We actually stayed in luxury tents, complete with electric light, little gardens in front and en-suite plumbed-in facilities. This is glamping indeed. The group was very happy as we were served a lunch buffet for 300 rupees, about 4 pounds and there was a good variety of food for those tiring of curry. The afternoon was free to have a rest after all the travel, explore the town or catch up with the diaries.

Later most of us took up the option of a river rafting trip. We had already seen several rafts go downstream so knew what was in store. We were well kitted out with helmets and life jackets, six to a boat with a couple of guides who instructed us in going forward, back and how to stop. We set off downstream under a very low bridge then over what Tom decided were grade 2 rapids. It was scary enough for some! Occasionally in calmer waters there were photo stops with temples all along the banks, peacocks flying overhead and then another bigger rapid where everyone got soaked. When we landed a hot drink of masala tea and snack of bread and chips was brought to us - chip butties in fact. It was a different and exciting experience.

As we returned to the tents a huge langur monkey was sitting outside our tent and scared some of the girls. Luckily nothing had been left outside or it might have disappeared. Our evening visit was to a Hindu Temple, said to be the only one where the god Rama had worshipped. At 7.00 pilgrims were queueing up to see statues which were kept behind closed doors. When they were opened they all went forward to give offerings to the statues. Dushya is a Hindu and was able to explain what was going on. The group then adjourned to a small family run eating place, reccmmended in "The Lonely Planet". The food was cheap and good though some a little on the spicy side. Choc ices helped cool us down.