Chrystal Anniversary - Chapter 2

Chrystal Anniversary - Chapter 2

By

Murali Murthy 

After a very satisfying, contented feeling with unique and adventurous experiences at Vrindavan and Mathura, the second half of our Chrystal year celebrations were planned in Delhi.

Preeti's excitement had no bounds.

For the first time, she explored, researched and listed the Shopping places to visit!

Anyway, taking her to the famous shopping markets and letting her splurge, was my anniversary gift to her.

The drive from Vrindavan to Delhi was via the much hyped Yamuna expressway. It was a 8-laned highway and the quality of the roads, infra was not any better than our usual NH7, NH48, NH44 or any other Highways we have driven on. Ofcourse, with much much lesser traffic, maybe because of the hefty Toll.

The evening was well spent at Janpath Market, with Preeti opening her wings and hopping on every shop with a grin on her face.

And the Delhiites surely know how to party, as we explored the night life of Delhi.

Day-2 was the day for sight seeing.

Since the Independence Day was near, there were restrictions to visit close to the Parliament House and Rashtrapati bhavan.

Qutb Minar, a popular tourist destination. Good to see and click a few photographs. The history and purpose of building, the structure is rather not be discussed, as it's indeed a historical mistake.

Moving on...the next stop was at yet another attraction - Lotus Temple. Yet another hyped place, where the majestic lotus shaped complex stands tall and inviting.

Very elaborate and systematic arrangements are made to manage the crowd, footwear, building up for the entry into the "Temple".

As one close in to the temple, the concept and idea (Bahai religion) is displayed through the walk way, which is similar to that of Matri Mandir in Pondicherry, where people from all beliefs and religions can come under one roof for prayers. Concept is difficult to digest, as the massive, elaborate Structure houses nothing, just nothing. It's a hall that can seat 1000s of people and absolutely nothing!

And time for shopping again...Delhi Haat!

After a hectic time, had a sumptuous meal and headed back to hotel to rest.

Evenings are again to explore the night life in Cannaught Place.

Day-3 was planned for more sight seeing. Started the day at Birla Mandir, a beautiful, elegant temple that houses Shri Lakshmi Narayana. Extremely well maintained temple, surprisingly very less crowd for a morning visit.

Next pitstop was at Agrasen ki Bauli. An age old water management system, with multiple stories behind it. Rumours has that the place is haunted, the black water is hypnotic and draws people to commit suicide.

Anyway, it's a nice place for a good photo session, with many couples and friends groups sitting in peace. Well known movies like Sultan, PK has some scenes here.

Much needed break from the Masalas, Butter, Ghee, Paneer and Alu, a sumptuous South Indian meal is so satisfying. Wherever you go on earth, you will find a Saravana Bhavan to the rescue.

Second half of the day was at the expansive Sarojini Nagar Market. It reminded me of Chatuchak market in Bangkok. One needs patience and energy to cover the entire Market.

We then headed to Aksharadham Temple. An enormous temple of Swami Narayan with elaborate security arrangements and lot of activities to keep the crowd engaged and entertained. The Temple campus is pleasing to the eyes and can spend hours in tranquility.

The lighting is supposed to be even more beautiful, with lazer shows by the Water, but Sarojini Market had already drained us out, so we didn't spend much time there.

A quick stop at India Gate, on the way back to the Hotel.

As usual, late evenings at one of the Pubs in Cannaught Place.

Day-4 was marked to relax at the Hotel, to pack those scores of stuff Preeti had shopped at all the Markets.

A trip to remember, a much needed break from the routine, stress and monotony.

Thank you Vrindavan, Mathura and Delhi for everything you offered us.

Thanks to Saravana Bhavan, Sagar Ratna and Bheemeshwara Restaurants, they don't let us South Indians miss home food.

It's a sight to watch the girls, women so beautifully, elegantly dressed. With no inhibitions in their dressing, and Men don't give a stare at all, atleast the localites.

We come back to Business As Usual, with loads of memories and GBs of Photos to re-live these amazing memories, for years to come.

Neena (Mini and Jone Hospitality) was always there to ensure our Trip was a good one, she ensured the discomforts, issues gets resolved immediately.