Location: India
Summary: This week took me from Jaipur to Ranthambore, then on to Agra, Lucknow and finally Varanasi. It was a week of early mornings, long drives, breathtaking sights, and unforgettable moments on the River Ganges.
Monday, 10th February
We left Jaipur behind this morning and travelled to Ranthambore, one of the most famous game reserves in India. The landscape changed as we drove, becoming wilder and more rugged. After checking in at the hotel, we headed out again in the evening for a game drive through the National Park. The air was cool, the light was fading, and the sounds of the forest surrounded us as we searched for wildlife in the gathering dusk.
Tuesday, 11th February
Before sunrise, we were back in the park for an early morning safari. The forest was quiet except for birds calling in the trees, and then, suddenly, there it was, a tiger, moving slowly through the undergrowth. It was a moment I will never forget. After lunch, I rested my legs on the hotel grounds. On the guideโs advice, I skipped the fort at Ranthambore, saving my energy for the days ahead.
Wednesday, 12th February
Today we travelled to Agra. On the way, we stopped at the Abhaneri Stepwells, an extraordinary geometric maze of steps descending deep into the earth. After exploring the site, we continued to Umaid Lake Palace for lunch before completing the journey to Agra.
Thursday, 13th February
This morning, I visited the Taj Mahal. No matter how many photos you have seen, nothing prepares you for the real thing. The white marble glowed in the sunlight, and the symmetry of the entire complex was breathtaking. It was one of those rare places that truly lives up to its reputation.
Friday, 14th February
We left Agra and travelled to Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh. The city felt different from the others we had visited, with its parks, gardens, monuments and lively bazaars. It was a long travel day, but an interesting one.
Saturday, 15th February
Today we travelled to Varanasi, one of the oldest and most spiritual cities in the world. Situated on the banks of the River Ganges, it is a place where Hindus come to bathe in the sacred water to cleanse themselves of sin. Even from the bus, the atmosphere felt different, heavier with history and belief.
Sunday, 16th February
I was up before sunrise for a boat ride along the Ganges. The river was calm, and the early morning light revealed people bathing, praying and performing rituals along the ghats. It was peaceful, moving and unlike anything I had seen before. In the afternoon, we visited Sarnath, the ruined city where Buddha is said to have given his first sermon. It was a quiet and reflective end to a remarkable week.
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