Northern India, so very different from the big cities.
The itinerary included: Shanti Kunj, Pawan Dham Temple, Jairam Ashram,
Chandi Devi Temple, Daksh Prajapati Temple Complex Kankhal and May Devi
Temple. Best advice for a day like this is to wear shoes that slip on and
off easily as one is required to remove their shoes before entering the
sacred areas. The people in India are very devout and more than 80% are
practicing Hindus. India also has five native Jewish communities, and while
listening to the guide I noticed several similarities in the two religions.
In addition to the temples and history lessons we spent time walking through
villages and markets. The people love to have their pictures taken, and we
were stopped numerous times by families here on their probably once in a
lifetime pilgrimage to pose with them - I have no idea what they will do
with these photos, but they loved it. Even the shop keeper where one in our
group made some purchases was photographed at the completion of the
bargaining and eventual sale - both happy with the outcome.
The last place we visited today was the holy ghat of Haridwar to witness the
evening AARTI (prayers). According to our tour information "The holy city
of Haridwar translates to "Gateway to God," and is a magnet for religious
pilgrims from all over the globe. Haridwar is one of the seven holiest
places of Hindus, located on the banks of the River Ganges." We were not
disappointed, despite the evening rain the people came to pray, to purify
themselves in the Ganges and to leave the ashes of their loved ones.
Another great day, topped off with a very interesting Indian meal.
