1. Welcome to India
Marble elephant welcomes us in Agra. The hospitality in India was warm and friendly, everyone was very helpful and that made for very enjoyable trip.
2. On the 'Lady Di bench'
Classic Taj Mahal pic at what has come to be known as the 'Lady Di' bench. It was a clear morning and the Taj was shining in all its glory. Although it's one of the world's most recognisable buildings, nothing beats seeing it in person!
3. The Taj Mahal
'Look what I am holding!' Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable - and not only about the history of the site. He also knew all the best spots to take pictures!
4. Outside the Taj
A great pic of the kids standing in the corridor of infinite doors outside the Taj. There’s so much more to the Taj than the facade – take time to learn the history and spend time exploring where you can.
5. A new perspective
Taj Mahal from different angle. The gardens were beautiful, and well worth wandering. We had amazing weather in November.
6. Getting around
A no emission vehicle policy around the Taj Mahal has created a thriving horse buggy industry. It's a great way to get around - another fun thing to do with the kids.
7. Agra Fort
Beautiful inlay work at the Agra Fort. Built by the Emperor Akbar in 1565, the red sandstone fort was renovated and turned into a palace during Shah Jahan's time and reworked extensively with marble and pietra dura inlay.
8. Fatehpur Sikri
The ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri where emperor Akbar held court, this is where the mystical musician Tansen performed.
9. The Courtyard
This is the beautifully preserved courtyard of Queen Noor Jahan at the Agra Fort. We enjoyed hearing the many interesting stories of the Mughals who lived there.
10. Elephant ride
The Rajput fort and palace at Amer, (Jaipur, Rajasthan). The 30 min elephant ride up to the fort was thrilling; offering a fantastic view of the valley below. It was a real highlight for the kids, who talked about it for days!
11. Movember?
Puppeteer and his 30 yr in the making moustache, he was very friendly and made us all laugh a lot - especially the kids, who couldn't get enough of that moustache!
12. Folk musician
This Rajasthani musician allowed us to try his version of the Sarangi. He had bells attached to it and sang and played several folk songs for us - a real treat.
13. Rajasthani puppet show
Traditional Rajasthani puppet show very well done and enthralled the children and adults.
14. The Amber Fort, Jaipur
Known for its artistic style, blending Rajput and Hindu elements, the fort offers fascinating insight into the lives of the Rajput Maharajas and their families who lived there.
15. Inside the Amber Fort
The detail of the building is exquisite, testament to the skill of those who built it and the extravagant lives of those who lived there once upon a time.
16. Hot tub - for pyaing guests only.
Non paying guest checking out the hot tub at our hotel early one morning. Monkeys - though mischievous - are an endless source of delight for the little ones.
