Mittens and Sunglasses

Remember that I was super excited that I had booked a trip to India in January? Well, in August I received an e-mail telling me that they were sorry, but my trip was cancelled. They had gotten some cancellations, and therefore couldn’t go through with the planned trip. I could get my money back, or I could get a discound on another trip with the company. One of the options was a trip to India around Christmas or they could recommend a trip to Zansibar.

Now, a trip to Zansibar sounds like an interesting trip, but for me it wasn’t an option. Nor am I able to travel at Christmas time, as I have to work. We’re not many people back at work, so I need to be there.

I replied and said I was only interested in India, and had time off in October 2024, so that was the only time I could go. They then told me they could arrange a trip for me, but then it would be with an English speaking, local guide. I asked how much it would be, and I was told it would be around the same price as I originally paid. I was up for that, and asked if it was possible to choose where to go myself. I was told I could! After a bit back and forth, a plan was made. I also paid a bit extra just to get the flights I wanted, and reserved seats, but I think it’s worth it.

So my new plans is to leave Norway on the 17th, and fly via Helsinki. I’ll be arriving in Delhi super early on the 18th. Someone will come pick me up after customs, bagage claim and all that jazz, and take me to the hotel. I’ll get a rest there, and then my (female) guide will pick me up at the hotel, and we’ll head out for the fist day of sight seeing in Delhi. As per now, I’m supposed to visit Khari Baoli (Spice Market), National Museum, India Gate, and Rashtrapati Bhavan.

On the 19th we will head to Agra, where the main goal of course is to visit the Taj Mahal. We will be leaving Agra the next day already, to visit Jaipur. One of the sights to visit in Jaipur is, of course, Hawa Mahal. From the photos (like the one under) it looks so beautiful!

The 22nd will be spent going back to Delhi, and then get up early the next day to take the train to Rishikesh, located on the river Ghanges in the Indian state Uttarakhand. Rishikesh is considered to be a holy city, and was made famous by The Beatles, who visited back in 1968. I must admit I’ve been dreaming of visiting Rishikesh, so when I found I was able to go, I was absolutely thrilled!

After three days in Rishikesh, we head back to Delhi on the 26th, where I’ll stay the night before flying back to Norway via Helsinki on the 27th.

Needless to say, I’m very excited to go! I might have felt disappointed the short time I thought there might not be a trip to India after all, but not it may very well have turned into something better.

I hope to be able to blog during my trip, so keep an eye on this space for updates!