Agra left us exhausted like we figured it would. The plan was to make the 4 hour train ride to New Delhi, then just spend the rest of the day as well as the next relaxing in the room and getting some videos ready to go before our friends from Japan arrived on Sunday. Halfway through the second day and we were getting antsy so we decided to go and explore the Chandni Chowk Market since we knew it was closed on Sundays. This turned into an amazing afternoon.
Chandni Chowk also known as Moonlight Square is one of oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi selling anything you can imagine. It’s known for it’s electronics section as well as clothing and street foods. We also noticed a lot of places selling old medical textbooks. The main road has hundreds of side street and alleyways that all contain hidden wonders. We aren’t really into markets but as this one is not geared for tourists as much as locals we were keen to explore. No one tried to get us into their shop and we saw no one hawking their goods. Quite the opposite. We went unnoticed through the dense chaos of local businesses. Just as we were at the point of sensory overload, we came across Paratha alley. A little hidden corner of the market with stalls only selling the famous dish. We were unsure what it was or how to order or eat it but there was a long line of locals outside one stall so we wandered up and asked two college guys what was happening. They explained, then offered for us to join them so we could avoid the line as they were next to go in. A meal with locals was something we will never say no to. The meal consisted of a thin deep fried flatbread stuffed with mixed veg and served with a plate of different chutneys, curries and pickled veggies. It was all delicious and the company was awesome. Thanks guys. Even though I tried to buy their dinner they outsmarted me by speaking Hindi to the waiter and making sure that didn’t happen. They ended up treating us. Well played. Knowing we couldn’t top that experience we decided to call it a night on a high note.
Sunday came and we finally got to meet up with my childhood friend Paul. We met up with him 5 years ago in Japan where he lives now as well as last summer in NY where our friendship began. Although we are getting to meet up more frequently these days, this time was special. Who would have imagined 40 years ago that we would be exploring India together now. We are each well traveled to say the least but I think we both felt this adventure was special. When we met in NY I got to see his parents and sister which meant so much to me. They were extremely influential in raising me and influencing who I am today. And as if trying to top that he ended this trip with some amazing news. More on that after dinner.
The day began with us being introduced to his friend from Japan (& Boston) Thom, one of the kindest people I know and his Indian friend Praneeth, one of the most generous guys around. They really made the day enjoyable and fun. Even before we finished breakfast I knew we were in good company for the day. I had prebooked a guided tour with a private driver to show us the main sites of Delhi. Stop one was at India’s biggest mosque the Jama Masjid. We climbed to the top of the minaret for a view of the city then took a rickshaw ride through the crowded streets to Chandi Chowk market. Although the market was mostly closed because it was Sunday we got to see the section that has the spices. It was nice being there without the crowds we endured the day before. The next stop was at the Raj Ghat, a memorial to Gandhi. The memorial was an interesting stop and the most tranquil place we have been in India. Next we went for a fancy and delicious lunch. The food was traditional but the company was the best part. We then went to the Akshardham Hindu temple. There are no electronics of any kind allowed which is a shame as this temple is one of the most beautiful modern temples we have ever seen. We then drove past the presidents house and the India Gate before stopping at the Agrasen ki Baoli, a historical step well. It was a quick but interesting stop. However the last stop on the tour was my favorite. The Qutub Minar, the worlds tallest brick tower and a UNESCO world heritage site. The history and the vibe of the complex was a perfect way to end our tour BUT not our day.
After a quick shower and change of costume we headed out to dinner at Haveli Dharampura. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site hotel with a 5 star restaurant. The ambiance was as spectacular as the 13 course fixed menu we enjoyed. Seems Paul has a flair for picking the finest dining experiences possible in each of the last 3 cities we have visited together. The dinner and the entire day was something I don’t think any of us will ever forget. Then to make the night even better Paul announced he and his wife are having their first baby. Congratulations my friend. My only regret from the entire day is that Iyoko was not there to share in the memory with us. She was in our hearts though and to her I send our love and most sincere congratulations.
New Dehli turned out to be a stop on this trip with treasures we never expected. Its hard to compete with the Taj Mahal and Holi but good friends trump all. Thank you all for a perfect day and may we have another together soon.
