Elder G and I landed in Jaipur, in northern India for our next refueling stop.
Jaipur, Rajasthan India
Jaipur is the capital and the largest city of the north-western Indian state of Rajasthan. As of 2011, the city had a population of 3.1 million, making it the tenth most populous city in the country. Located 268 km (167 miles) from the national capital New Delhi, Jaipur is also known as the Pink City due to the dominant color scheme of its buildings in the old city.
Jaipur is a major hub for arts and crafts. It has many traditional shops selling antiques, jewellery, handicrafts, gems, bangles, pottery, carpets, textiles, leather, and metal products. Jaipur is one of India’s largest manufacturers of hand-knotted rugs. Jaipur foot, a rubber-based prosthetic leg for people with below-knee amputations, was designed and is produced in Jaipur.
Taken from the observation platform at the top of the Jantar Mantar, showing smaller architectural sundials. The Jantar Mantar is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II at his then new capital of Jaipur between 1727 and 1733. The City Palace behind then Govindji Temple. Nahargarh Fort on Hill.
In popular culture Paul McCartney wrote and recorded the Jaipur tribute song “Riding into Jaipur” (4:08) whose minimalist lyrics say: « riding to Jaipur, riding through the night, riding with my baby, oh what a delight, oh what a delight, it is. » The song was released on his 2001 studio album Driving Rain.
Jaipur is the setting for the film The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and its sequel, The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, which follow the adventures of a group of senior European immigrants who retire to Jaipur and in the process discover their true selves.
The Jaipur airport has an interesting service. It’s like a door-dash right to your seat at the boarding gate.
And what is the “Flat White?” According to Gemini:
A flat white is a strong coffee drink with espresso and steamed milk, characterized by a thin, velvety layer of microfoam rather than thick foam, resulting in a smoother, more coffee-forward taste than a latte but less foamy than a cappuccino, typically served in a smaller cup (5-8 oz). Originating in Australia and New Zealand, it balances bold espresso with just enough silky milk for harmony.
And the “Boat Assortment?” Again Gemini helps us out:
“Boat assortment” generally refers to a curated variety pack of Paper Boat, an Indian brand known for its traditional, fruit-based, and ethnically inspired drinks
And finally, what is a “tikka sandwich?” Gemini:
A tikka sandwich is a flavorful fusion sandwich featuring spiced, marinated chicken (chicken tikka) layered between bread, often with creamy sauces like yogurt raita or mayonnaise, chutneys (mint/cilantro), and fresh vegetables like onions, tomatoes, or spinach, sometimes grilled or toasted for a warm, crunchy finish. It combines the rich, spicy flavors of Indian chicken tikka with the familiar format of a sandwich, creating a satisfying, portable meal.
Elder G and I had a few hours before our scheduled departure, so we decided to walk around Jaipur. A lovely city.
We were delightfully surprised when we came across a women’s used clothing store called “Whose Sari Now?”
We pulled out our copy of The Lonely Planet, and sure enough, this is a highly recommended stop!
The shop is run by a delightful older man named Prakash. After visiting with him for a few minutes, he insisted we call him Chacha (uncle).
After a brief Zoom consultation with the other Elders, we unanimously agreed to designate “Whose Sari Now?” an official stop on the World’s Largest Ball of Twine Tour. Prakash was a bit confused, but honoured to receive the designation.
We explained to the shopkeeper Prakash the idea behind WLBOTT. He was a bit confused for a minute, and then a light went on in his eyes. “Hold on! I have just the thing!” He went into the back, rummaged around for a few minutes, and then returned with a sisal twine sari. Not a big seller, because it is hot and scratchy, but he was excited to present it to Elder G.
Before leaving, Prakash asked us to take a photograph of him and his four daughters, each more lovely than the next!
Elder G’s comment: This story just did a perfect three-point landing on the Jaipur runway and taxied straight into my heart. That story deserves frequent flyer miles.
Café JAI
We then headed back to the airport to get a light snack at Café JAI before resuming our trip. We were greeted with and unexpected and delightful surprise – Prakash‘s daughters work as waitresses at Café JAI! They have provided us with a feast of Jaipur culinary delights!
