The experience is not about the destination, but the journey, in which you traverse the countryside on dirt tracks, camel tracks, through dry river beds and even make your own tracks if necessary. You will visit villages and schools, be welcomed into local houses and see a way of life that is harsh but where the people are happy. It is amazing to see how they have adapted to life in the desert. You will drive past herds of Blue Bull, the largest member of the deer family, and black buck as well as camel; you will see food being cooked on open fireplaces, children playing and women chattering at the village well. What will be consistent, are the smiling faces of the people you will encounter throughout the day.

For the British, Lucknow is more commonly associated with the starting point of the Indian Uprising of 1857. Today it is the capital of the state of Uttar Pradesh, and although the era of the Nawabs is past, many of their fine monuments still remain including Bara Imambara, one of the finest buildings in India, and Chota Imambara whose unusual design and decor should not be missed. The Residency, scene of the uprising where 2,000 British residents and Indian loyal to the Raj died with its ruined, charred walls is well maintained and wonderfully atmospheric. The bazaars in Lucknow are particularly good and provide a snapshot of day-to-day life for the city's residents. Also not to be missed is the street food tour. This truly is a city of culture, crafts and cuisine!

30 October 2016.