Due to the Holi (H=Hate; O=Out; L=Love; I=In) Festival happening in the 2nd of March most trains were already full booked and it was impossible for us to find a way out of Delhi. We decided to book a driver (all costs included, except accommodation and meals) for the next 11 days to take and drive us around Rajasthan. Deepak couldn't be better, funny, friendly and always open to show us his culture and answer some questions. The first ride between New Delhi and Bikaner took us 11 hours and he always tried to get to know us and help in anyway. We passed by some crazy places and experienced how the traffic outside the capital really works in India. He recommended us the city of Mandawa for a short stop but unfortunately due to our tight schedule and long hours on the road, we just did a car tour. Mandawa has several old palaces with beautiful wall paintings, but sadly all deteriorated and abandoned. Bikaner was the opposite, chaotic, full with energy, small businesses and markets, and several mounting animals – camels, horses and elephants. The Junagarh Fort is the main and probably the only interesting monument there, and occupies a large part of town.
New-learnings:
- there’s only cold water to shower, which is not that bad considering that you are in a desert region
- paper toilet is valuable and its use should be avoided if there’s a hose to clean yourself
- cows wander around everywhere and should be well treated
- dust, sand and smoke cannot be avoided
- staying clean will somehow stop to be your priority
- public toilets are difficult to find
- buying a SIM card can be a challenge but making it work is an even greater one
- nights can be a pain in the ass, always to much movement and noises
- the three "goods" for drivers in India: have a good horn, good breaks and good luck!
Next Stop: Jaisalmer, India
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