Just Back: India

By Darren and Caitlin Humphreys

India is a destination that cannot and should not be ignored. The extreme contrasts that exist here are not found anywhere else on Earth. A true assault on the senses … the sounds, smells, tastes, and feelings are instilled in its visitors.

Our journey began in Kolkata, a city steeped in colonial history. Its vibrant, organized chaos is found within its book quarter, tea and coffee shops, cricket stadiums, and the largest flower market in all of Asia. A must-see is the Kumartuli potters’ quarter where clay from the Ganges is used to sculpt ceremonial statues. Their work was mesmerizing, and their craftsmanship was unparalleled.
 
From Kolkata, we accessed the foothills of the Himalayas, where sprawling Darjeeling tea plantations abound. This serene natural setting was juxtaposed with the urban portion of our trip.
 
Some of our highlights were the elaborate stepwells and the ornate palaces and opulent forts created for the Mughals and Maharajas. We appreciated the diversity found within the people and their belief systems including Hindus, Muslims, and Jains.
 
In Delhi, our tuk-tuk dodged sacred cows and whizzed by bustling markets. We perused stalls touting intricate handicrafts and incredible textiles including block prints, woven rugs, and cotton linens. In aromatic spice markets, we sampled samosas and deep-fried sweets from local street vendors. We also walked barefoot on marble-floored mosques, where people in need of a meal congregated, and were touched by the welcoming community’s ability to give back.

Watching the sunrise at the Taj Mahal, Agra’s architectural masterpiece and ultimate tribute to enduring love, was very memorable. The scale of it was almost incomprehensible as was the amount of precious stones used to create the inlay designs.
                                                                                             
In truth, we barely scratched the surface of this remarkable destination. It is a place that cannot be conquered all at once … and one that requires balance. Our firsthand experience and knowledge of this complex destination will prove crucial to helping navigate your time here. Allow TS to guide you through India—a true living museum—and prepare you for the kaleidoscope of colors and wonders it holds.