After a week of finding our feet at field base and getting to grips with our roles, the team were given Sunday afternoon off. Disguised as tourists, we drove off to Mysore carrying our digital cameras with intent.
An obligatory photo of a Raleigh vehicle
First stop off was for a delicious southern Indian lunch. While the rest of us were concentrating on simply filling our bellies, Jenny was carrying out a very important experiment: butter naan vs parota. The result was inconclusive; they were equally delicious.
Emerging back into the throng we hit the tourist trail. An enjoyable drive ascending twisty roads, dodging cows and endearingly relaxed pedestrians en route, brought us to Chamundi Hill. One of the eighth most sacred hills in southern India - well that's what the sign says - and about 800 feet above Mysore. Dusty sandals were slipped off as we entered the Sri Chamundeswari temple for anointing.
The temple's 40m high gopuram
A 5m high Nandi (Shiva's bull vehicle)
Descending the hill and pressed for time we snatched a quick glimpse of Mysore Palace before stumbling into rickshaw rally, an exhilarating spin that transported us to a jungle-themed restaurant where we were greeted by waiters sporting safari outfits, including pith helmets. A good time was had by all.
Discovery of the day
Kashmiri naan
Who came up with this gem! It's naan, but not as we know it. Resembling a cheese and tomato pizza, closer inspection revealed cubes of mango and then the pièce de résistance: an unexpected mischievious smattering of red jam. Genius!
Quote of the day
Pete after his anointing: "I just need a green dot then I'll look like traffic lights."
Pete's my uncle lol
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