Jaigarh and Nahargarh Fortresses

Jaigarh "Victory Fort" contains the world's largest cannon - it has only ever been fired once (as a practice).

The fortress is high up over the Amber Fort on a ridge - with great views from the kiosks along the walls.

The Nahargarh "Tiger Fort" had beautifully painted walls and great views out over Jaipur.

We went right up onto the roof and could walk around - it was amazing.

Amber Fort

The Amber Fort was established in 1592 by Man Singh.  It's a huge complex and incredibly beautiful.

Kesar Kyari Bagh, named after the saffron flowers planted in the star shaped flower beds.

Sheesh Mahal - where the flame of a single candle is reflected in the tiny mirrors all around the room.

Jaipur

Joal and Jenny went off to Udaipur for a few days and then Lex and I flew to Jaipur to meet them.  Rajasthan is full of ancient cities with magnificent palaces and forts, colourful festivals and bazaars. We hired a taxi driver for a couple of days so we could get round to see the sights.  First up we went into Jaipur Pink City and to the  Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) followed by the City Palace which is an interesting blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture.

Hawa Mahal - Palace of Winds

Snake charmer by the City Palace

City Palace - the Chandra Mahal - a 7 storeyed palace

 We also went to the Jantar Mantar, the royal observatory.  It's huge and really funky - with enormous sun dials and other buildings - one of which is a sundial accurate to 20 seconds.

In the afternoon we went to the Amber Fort and then on the way back we went to a lovely peaceful garden just outside the city.

We also went to the Jal Mahal which appears to be floating on the lake.

Finally back in town again we made our way to the Albert Hall, now a museum.  We ate right on top of the old city walls near the New Gate - a dodgy looking place but very tasty food.

Joal and Jenny in Juhu

Finally - they are here - let the holidays begin!

Marja in Mumbai in March

An old Dutch friend from NIST came to visit in March.  This was a good time to revisit some places downtown such as Haji Ali's, the Gateway of India, the Taj Palace hotel and Dhobi Ghat.  It was also International Women's Day and we had a celebration at our apartment complex in which Melissa (an ASB teacher) did Bollywood Dancing.

Colourful Holi

This year I only played Holi at school - however it was still great fun!

Powerful Photography

ASB Un-Plugged was yet another opportunity to do a photography walk through our local neighbourhood.  I love people watching!