JaisalmerOct 14, 2009
|
|
I have now come to the very eastern part of Rajasthan, near the Pakistan boarder, staying in Jaisalmer. This place is truely something out of an ancient story book, out in the desert where the traders on the Silk Route would visit on their journeys across the world. It took a 12 hour train ride with a large portion of the desert making it's way inside the train, despite our efforts. Each time I stood up sand would pour off my clothing. All good fun. A stunning fort is located here, intricately carved balconies and walls. The place that I am staying in is 800 years old, solid stone and gorgeious. You navigate your way around narrow streets equally occupied by cows. Some caution is required when trying to squeeze past them and the ladened street stalls.
Jaisalmer is stunning, stunning and more stunning. The people are very friendly and the shopping is great. The shoe shops are fun, full of Ali Baba shoes, embroidered with curled toes. They also make modern shoes in bright colours. For 7 $ I have swooped a few, O.K., maybe more than a few. Went to a brilliant jewellery place today, recommended by a 60+ yrs old Darwin lady that lives here for 8 months of the year. The owner loves the traditional silver wear from all over India and the middle east. The Smithsonian Mus. discovered him some years ago and and team of 12 came and did extensive filming of his collection and knowledge. This has lead to him being invited to the Smithsonian each year for 2 months at a stretch and doing tribal silver wear workshops.
