India

Visited: February 2000

Duration of visit: 40 days

Capital city: Delhi

Population: 1,057 million (2000)

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

• Tasty food, inexpensive travelling and friendly people in Calcutta.
• Visiting multiple Buddhist temples in Bodh Gaya.
• Navigating Ganges River and observing a daily ritual of bathing in Varanasi.
• Camel trip in Rajasthan introduces me to remote villages, magic desert and simplicity of daily tasks.
• Friendly reception of Sikh pilgrims at the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
• McLeod Ganj: in search of Dalai Lama in Buddhist retreat under Himalaya.
• Shopping in Delhi, before returning home after ending 15-month Asian Big Tour.

India was part of my Asian Big Tour from Australia, through Southeast Asia and China to India. During this 15-months long trip I visited most of the countries in the region and spent and spent almost a month and a half travelling around India, before returning home completely out of money, but rich in experiences.

India is special, unique and extreme. You love it or you hate it. There is nothing between.

The impact of poverty, disease, dirtiness, hassle or chaos can be so strong that the distinctive blend of colors, smells, religions, people and landmarks can diminish the moments of joy. There were situations, when I had enough of everything and during diarrhea issues, I found unbearable to tolerate the presence of so many people around me. It happens to everyone in certain occasions.

From the first train ride to Calcutta surrounded by hordes of people to the final check-in at the airport counter, when followed by a holy cow, the bizarre situations impressed me. I never tried to interpret them from Western standpoint, because it would be impossible to find the explanation.

While the influence of diverse religions, holy cities and spicy food is an integral part of Indian culture, it is equally marked by challenges related to survival, the inequalities of the caste system, a large population and the presence of extremely poor or disabled people.

Having cultivated a deep appreciation for Indian culture, I regard India highly among the nations of Asia. My earlier experience in Bangladesh, which fell short of my expectations regarding cuisine, accommodations, and attractions, has likely influenced my favorable perspective.

During my 40-day journey across India, I was only able to explore the northern region of the country. I am confident that I will return in the future to uncover the unique and captivating aspects of the South India as well.