Tordi Garh, India
Before the crack of dawn and with the call to prayer, we were already on the public bus on route to a small, remote village. We hopped into Jeeps after the bus took us as far as it could and continued for a few more hours further into the countryside. In Tordi Garh, we pulled up to the 16th century palace where we'd be spending the night.
Some of us got back in another Jeep to see the town, regardless of the rain, and we were well rewarded for it with the showers stopping in time for a hike up a sand dune for some chai as the sun fell, and a wild ride to the dam to watch it set. The locals were so lovely, and we waved and said hello to everyone we passed.
Ola and I got up early to hike to the top of the mountain to the ruins of the old fort. Forgetting that a sunrise mountain top view would mean getting up there in the dark, we stumbled along and took some time getting through the thorn plants, but it was well worth it when we hit the peak. Miles of agriculture and small towns spread before us, and our guide poured the chai as we dangled our feet over the side of the fort wall.
We explored the ruins and learned about the history of the old palace, whose rule was later transferred to Jaipur. It was a quiet moment of peace away from the bustle of India, and a definite highlight.
I later rejoined some of the group for a walk around the village, meeting the local kids and even trying my hand at pottery.
Ola and I got up early to hike to the top of the mountain to the ruins of the old fort. Forgetting that a sunrise mountain top view would mean getting up there in the dark, we stumbled along and took some time getting through the thorn plants, but it was well worth it when we hit the peak. Miles of agriculture and small towns spread before us, and our guide poured the chai as we dangled our feet over the side of the fort wall.
We explored the ruins and learned about the history of the old palace, whose rule was later transferred to Jaipur. It was a quiet moment of peace away from the bustle of India, and a definite highlight.
I later rejoined some of the group for a walk around the village, meeting the local kids and even trying my hand at pottery.
This quiet village is so untouched by the general tourist trade, making it a wonderful, authentic experience and chance to see the farming life. We bid adieu to our private palace and got back into the Jeeps, Jaipur bound.
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