Monday, February 14
Jambughoda – Rest Day
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!!! Come join me today on a tour of Champaner:
The ancient city of Champaner dates back to the 1400s and much of it lies in ruins. The mosque - Jami Masjid is the most unique mosque in the country. It is a paradox the guide told us – it is the only mosque that has symbols and architectural influences of both the Muslim and Hindu religions integrated into it. You can see the 98 ft minarets (entry towers) of this mosque as well as a few of its domes inside this city wall.
Inside the mosque there are 175 pillars supporting the beam and domed ceilings. It’s so impressive – each limestone pillar is 9 pieces and they were finished with a special glazing that shone like mirrors in their time. We were not allowed on the upper levels because the earthquake that hit the area in 2001 made it unsafe for visitors.
The women were not allowed inside the open area of the mosque so a special room was provided for them – it had screens and curtains so that they could not be seen by the men in the open areas. Many of the intricately carved stone panels are missing but you can see the remains of this walled area for the ladies:
Let me introduce you to Allen – he is the eldest member of our group. A VERY youthful 75 years old. He is originally from England and now lives in the Vancouver area with his wife and 2 miniature huskies. He has a wealth of travel and experiences from all over the world, a terrific attitude and a great sense of humor. Along with a few other folks, Allen and I decided to go to the top of the nearby mountain (Pavagadh Hill) to explore more of the city’s history.
Pavagadh Hill is at 2690 feet and we rode in a jeep for much of the way – stopping once for a scenic view of one of the many fortress remains along the way. These structural arches still stand from hundreds of years ago. The wall to the left overlooks the valley below and was part of the strategic protection of the fort that lies above.
The jeep could only take us part way up the mountain – and by the looks of this jeep, I was surprised we made it as far as we did – check out my floorboard! Yep – that a big ol’ rusty hole by my feet! Haha!
After the jeep ride, we had to catch a gondola to the city area near the top – OR walk. The gondola was just like the one at Silver Mountain and I felt pretty good about its quality so we pay our 98 rupees and climbed in. Here’s one of the views from the gondola (too bad is so smoggy again – otherwise the view would’ve been incredible!)
It was a short ride to the city market area and we then still had quite an uphill walk to get to the top. Here is the market area lined with vendors selling their wares – foods, jewelry, tourist items and such. They had strung ropes from one side to the other and hung tarps to give the visitors some much needed shade on the ascent.
It’s hard for me to see so many of the animals here living at times in impossible conditions – with what seems to me to be people unable or willing to help them. I don’t need to take pictures of them because they are burned into my mind’s eye. But let me share a cute picture of a pretty healthy dog that found a comfy spot on the steps - its sleeping on some sandals in the shade.
The view from the top was panoramic – even with the haze. The village and gaht (bathing area) below are in the foreground with Allen, and the valley city of Champaner is below in the distance:
After returning to the hotel/palace we had a lovely lunch in the outdoor tent – it was beautiful!
I feel much better today and am planning on riding tomorrow so I’ve got to get my bike ready for the road!
