Old Delhi – Day 3

To learn more about the culture and history of India we had a fantastic tour of Old Delhi.  The tour was conducted by outstanding guides from Itihaas Tours, director and founder Smita Vats and Mohsin. We began at Jama Masjid, a very impressive mosque built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656 at a cost of 1 million rupees.

We then wove through the old city streets exploring historic architecture and town planning.  We stopped to visit Jain Naya Mandir place of worship which was serenely quiet. We continued along pathways, ducking riders on motor bikes and scooters, admiring the colorful doorways.

green doorred door

blue door

We strolled through Paranthe Wali Gali, where we tasted lovely pastries made fresh on the spot.

 

Paranthe Wali Gail

We emerged at Chandni Chowk Rd where we boarded a rickshaw and wove through chaotic traffic to get back to our bus.

Ilja , one of the other leaders on the exchange program created this wonderful movie of the day.

Trip to Taj Mahal – Day 2

Helen at Taj

Before we embarked on our home stay and school visits, Asia Education Foundation organized a cultural excursion to the Taj Mahal, a grand mausoleum made of white marble and built in Agra between 1631 and 1648.  It was built by the emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite and most trusted wife. Both Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan are buried at the mausoleum.

The trip there and back took up most of the day with an unplanned stop when our bus broke down, and a camel ride!

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Ilia, one of other leaders, created the short movie that sums up our trip.