Latest Photos from Jamile

Blog Merge

2010-07-11T17:18:00.001-07:00

This blog will no longer be updated. It has been merged into jamileblog.blogspot.com.

St. Croix: Images 10

2010-07-11T16:13:00.001-07:00

This little pineapple, barely a handful, grew outside my bedroom window. That side of the house does not get any rain (unless there is a storm, then everywhere gets wet), so it stayed small for months, then gave up and turned yellow. But it smells so good. I'll eat it in a day or two.

The lighthouse at Hams Bluff. I hadn't planned to hike up there on that day, so I didn't take any water. But I found myself up there anyway. The lighthouse is in bad shape. I wanted to climb up and look out, but the metal floor was rusted through. So I decided not to risk it.

Ruin of the greathouse at one of the plantations during St. Croix's "Golden Age of Sugar." I don't get too excited about the island's history, as it is mainly about slave labour. The greathouse is where the European planter lived.

Another view, including a smaller building.

Do you think this coconut was terrified because he knew I was going to bash his head open? At some point in the future, I will post a video of me removing the husk from this same coconut, with Pierre giving a running commentary.

St. Croix: Images 09

2010-07-11T15:39:00.001-07:00

A pretty neat location on the north side of the island. After a 1.5 mile hike up and down the hills and thru the bushes, you arrive at these tide pools. When the tide is high, the water comes crashing over the rocks and look like water falls.

Looking out at Protestant Cay from outside the house where my mother grew up.

The botanical gardens held their anual Mango Melee. They had on display countless varieties of mangos and other fruits. I was on patrol to keep people from feelin up de mango dem.

The kids mango eating contest. They had to eat 5 mangos. I didn't see who won, as I turned away after one of the kids regurgitated her mangos.

Tortola: Images 03

2010-07-11T15:28:00.000-07:00

A bar named Three Sheets. I did a little research into the phrase "three sheets to the wind" and found out that in sailing terminology, a sheet is a rope not a sail! But I still don't quite understand what three sheets to the wind means. Yeah, I know it means drunk, but I don't get the connection.

I just like the style of this building. At one of the marinas.

This phony building. The walls appear to be a good solid 16 inches thick, but on close inspection, I found that they were made of foam.

Looking out wishfully at the boats...

Village Cay Hotel & Marina

Tortola: Images 02

2010-07-11T15:11:00.000-07:00

My first chicken roti. When I was a child, we would have Christmas parties at school, and most of the time, there would be roti. But being the non-aggresive person that I am, by the time I got to the table, it would be finished. Everytime. Roti is an Indian dish from Trinidad. It is curried chicken, potatoes and vegetable wrapped in an Indian bread.

Some kind of chicken dish. It was a lot of food for about $10. Yeah, $10 is cheap here.

This was a $9 sandwich at Maria's by the Sea, I think. I was hungry soon after.

Some kind of pasta at Village Cay Hotel and Marina. About $12. Took a good 45 minutes to serve it. I came back at night, and this same dish was $25. I didn't eat.

Burger at Pusser's Pub, about $12.

Tortola: Images 01

2010-02-17T17:49:00.000-08:00

Ahhh...the tranquil Trellis Bay on Beef Island, near the sleepy airport.

The view of the harbour from my uncle's house. Notice the large cattle ship.

The same view late at night. There was good moonlight, and by keeping the shutter open for 15 seconds, I was able to get an excellent night photo with no graininess. I actually took this photo in 2007, prior to the incident in New Zealand, which reduced my camera to a mere point & click & hope.The view from my cousin's apartment.
The beach at Cane Garden Bay. I've never seen it this packed before. They come from the ship, directly to the beach, and go right back to the ship. They are of no benefit to the local economy.

St. Croix: Images 08

2010-02-17T12:25:00.000-08:00

It didn't take long...

...to degenerate into a shameful display...

...of flesh.

But really, since when is it the standard to wear a bikini and feathers on your head and call it a costume?

...and the conduct...they need to clean up this mess. It is embarrassing.

St. Croix: Images 07

2010-02-17T12:17:00.001-08:00

One of the largest cultural events of the year, the festival parade, held on January 2nd, began innocently enough. This is Ms. St. Croix.

Interesting skirt. The girl in front was a bit energetic.

Some beautiful shots here and there.

Colorful costumes.

Hmm...the costumes are shrinking.

St. Croix: Images 06

2010-02-17T11:57:00.000-08:00

Fruits in the yard today.
How long does it take for pineapples to grow to full size and ripen?

That fig is almost ripe, but I doubt I will get to taste it. The birds always get them first.

I thought it was an oversized weed and almost chopped it down when I saw two ripe tomatoes.

I've never eaten a papaya, (I know, you don't have to say it.) but I guess I'll try one when these are ready.

Big sour limes. I still don't know what to do with them.

St. Croix: Images 05

2010-02-17T09:25:00.000-08:00

Orchids in bloom today. ~~I don't know their names, although I could just go back into the greenhouse and read the names on the tags.~~
lc Nippan 'Livinza x blc Momilani Rainbow

blc Hawaiian Leopard

slc Marie Nohava Hallowed

blc Golden Tang

lc Blazing Treat

St. Croix: Images 04

2009-12-17T11:45:00.001-08:00

Some of the boats in the boat parade. My photos came out all fuzzy because I took them from aboard one of the boats.

Judging of deserts at the botanical garden.

Oooh...little guava tarts....

Now this is fish the way I like it - complete with the head and eyes looking at ya.

Virgin Islands International Islamic Society, Inc. I figured that since all the grocery stores, furniture stores & gas stations on the island are owned by Arabs, there must be a mosque somewhere. It was built in the 1960's.

St. Croix: Images 03

2009-12-17T11:32:00.000-08:00

Overlooking the beach at Carambola Beach Resort.

At the beach, not too far from Sandy Point.

Sitting in a life guard chair at Cramer Park.

Fort Frederik in Frederiksted.

The pier at Frederiksted, where the cruise ship dock and people go swimming and scuba diving.

St. Croix: Images 02

2009-12-17T11:18:00.000-08:00

Geocaching atop Mound Eagle, the highest point on St. Croix. Compared to the Himalayas, calling this a mountain is almost a joke.

Exiting the "rain forest" at St. Georges Botanical Garden.

A pool of lilies? at the botanical garden.

The botanical garden is at the site of an old plantation ruin.

The eastern end of the island is more dry and has cactus.

St. Croix: Images 01

2009-12-17T11:00:00.001-08:00

Sunset on the boat ride from Tortola back to St. Croix. We held one funeral service for my mother on St. Croix, then took her to Tortola for a second funeral service and entombment at the same location where my father was buried twenty years ago. In this photo, from front to back, my brother Pierre, two of his sons, my uncle Irvin.

At my mother's house, there are numerous fruit trees. This is one branch of the Avocado tree.

These are coconut trees.

This is a lime tree, but these limes are as big as oranges and very sour.

My mother was a rose enthusiast. The house is surrounded by rose bushes.

Turkey: Images 18

2009-12-17T10:00:00.001-08:00

I told you this place is crawling with cats. Actually this is at the dock of one of the small islands in the Marmara Sea, just off the coast of Istanbul.

Meet my friend Tugba. (It is pronounced Tooba. The g is supposed to have a breve on top, but today my computer is not cooperating.) I stayed with her on the big island my last weekend in Istanbul. She has like a million cats. One of which wakes you up in the morning by purring in your ear and prodding you with his paws.

Street scene on the big island.

View of another island from the big island.

This building is supposed to be the largest wooden building in Europe. However, since this island is off the Asian coast of Istanbul, rather than the European coast, I don't think this building is in Europe.

Turkey: Images 17

2009-11-25T15:55:00.000-08:00

Ah...Turkey...Should I return?

Sculpture in the park in Izmir.

more cats

The ramp to no-where! Or rather, the ramp from no-where.

Boats in the Istinye neighborhood of Istanbul.

Turkey: Images 16

2009-11-25T15:20:00.000-08:00

The travertine terraces of Pamukkale.

Sarcophagi in the necropolis of the ancient city of Hieropolis.

Some colomns in Hieropolis.

The ancient amphitheatre.

This hot spring has been a health spa since ancient times.

Turkey: Images 15

2009-11-02T14:58:00.001-08:00

Capadocia, a landscape unlike any other.

Early Christians lived here. And they carved churches inside the rocks.

As time went by, their paintings got more detailed. You can see the older artwork where the paint peeled off.

It is quite amazing.

They also had underground cities. I would be scared if the lights went out.

Turkey: Images 14

2009-11-02T14:46:00.000-08:00

The first thing you see when you arrive in Capadocia early in the morning is a sky full of balloons. The ride is a bit expensive - like 200 Euro - so I skipped it.

But Capadocia is unlike any place I've been before.

This is where we stayed. Inside this rock. The rock, which was formed by vocanic eruptions a long time ago, is very soft. You can carve it with a spoon.

This is a nice hotel. All the rooms are underground.

The grapes here are very sweet. We did not steal any. The people working in the vineyard gave us two bunches.

Turkey: Images 13

2009-11-02T14:04:00.001-08:00

Amasra, a small city on the Black Sea.

View of the Black Sea from a cave.

This was a funny scene. There was a little fish in that plastic container. This young cat and a few others didn't know how to get the fish out. Then an older, much more experienced cat came and snatched the fish and ran away. He then played with it until it died and then lost interest in it.

Another view of the Black Sea.

Meet my friend Alicja. She is not muslim. She just thinks headscarves are pretty. Everyone thought she was my wife, and we used that to our advantage in the market.

Turkey: Images 12

2009-11-02T13:39:00.000-08:00

Safranbolu is a World Heritage City because of the old Ottoman architecture.

More Safranbolu.

School children in Safranbolu

Puss 'n Boots

We ate grapes straight off the vine, without washing them, and did not get ill.

Turkey: Images 11

2009-10-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

The Grand Bazar

The Egyptian Bazar

A fish market

A good lunch for 8TL in the Aksaray neighborhood

cats, cats everywhere

Turkey: Images 10

2009-10-26T08:19:00.001-07:00

An old cemetery in Istanbul

Istanbul University

The old city wall

A street with a large Turkish flag

Sunset along the tram line.

Turkey: Images 09

2009-10-26T07:05:00.002-07:00

Images from the Harem.
The eunochs area.

Unfortunately, most of the harem was roped off and you're not allowed to explore. Not really worth the additional 18TL.

The royal toilet.

The room where the sultan entertained guests.

The sultan's room was locked, so I put my camera up to the keyhole and took this picture.

Turkey: Images 08

2009-10-26T06:51:00.000-07:00

Some images from Topkapı Palace, home of the Ottoman Sultans for 400 years.

ceramic tiles

ornate ceiling

محمود خان بن عبدالحميد مظفر دائماً

Turkey: Images 07

2009-10-26T06:02:00.000-07:00

Images from the Istanbul Archaeological Museum.

Snakes for legs....interesting...

Sarcophagus of the Crying Women

The Alexander Sarcophagus, one of the many rediculously ornate sarcophagi.

Turkey: Images 06

2009-10-26T05:05:00.000-07:00

Aya Sofya at night

view of Sultanahmet Camii from a window in Aya Sofya

This is Galata Küprüsü, bridge over the Golden Horn. On the lower level are many expensive fish restaurants. On the upper level, with the road and tram, are many people fishing.

Remnants of the old city wall

Cats rule Istanbul. They are everywhere!

Turkey: Images 05

2009-10-26T04:40:00.000-07:00

Aya Sofya was built in the 530's by the Byzentine Emperor Justinian. After the Ottoman Turks conquered Constantinople in 1453, it was converted into a mosque. In 1935, it was converted into a museum. Some of the Christian imagery suvived nearly 500 years while the building was used as a mosque.
?

This mosaic from about 1261 has the Virgin Mary, Christ and John the Baptist.

This mosaic from 1122 features the Virgin Mary with the Christ Child, emperor John II Comnenus and empress Irene.

This mosaic, from the 11th century, features the Christ, emperor Constantine IX Monomachus, and empress Zoe.

Among things you don't see often, Virgin Mary and child (from 867), flanked by huge medallions of Allah and Muhammad.

Turkey: Images 04

2009-10-26T04:25:00.000-07:00

I think this was Laleli Camii, but I'm not sure. There are so many mosques, it is difficult to tell which is which.

Inside Laleli Camii?

Inside Aya Sofya

Inside Sultanahmet Camii (Blue Mosque)

Inside one of the sultan mausoleums. I have no idea which one.

Turkey: Images 03

2009-10-26T03:32:00.000-07:00

Some posters seen while walking around Istanbul.
Whitney

more Whitney

lots of Whitney

Whitney

someone doesn't like Whitney

Turkey: Images 02

2009-10-16T06:21:00.000-07:00

The following photos were taken by Alicja, my travel companion for 3 weeks.
Trying to take a photo of one of the minarets thru the window of Ayasofia.

Trying some kind of oyster on the streets of Istanbul. I didn't get ill, so it was ok.

Smoking a nargile (hooka) at the Sultan Cafe. I didn't inhale, as I didn't want to cough all night.

I don't know when or where this photo was taken.

Playing my flute in Kapadokya.

Turkey: Images 01

2009-09-14T06:52:00.001-07:00

Sultanahmet Camii (Blue Mosque), the most famous mosque in Istanbul.

Ayasofia Muzesi. Used to be a church, then a mosque, now a museum.

They have a good metro & tram system in Istanbul.

There are many mosques, in the style of the Blue Mosque. The two closest here are Yeni Camii and Rüstem Paşa Camii.

There are churches here also. I have no idea what this one is.

India: Images 98

2009-09-14T06:20:00.000-07:00

Shimla has a real monkey problem...

...so people are kept in cages.

Shimla

This was the worse hotdog I've ever had. The bread was saturated with oil, and those were not strips of meat.

But I did have good food in India, and it was cheap. This meal was about $3.

India: Images 97

2009-09-14T06:14:00.000-07:00

I am going to miss the mountains of India.

And the mountain streams.

Women at Pressar Lake

Shimla was the summer capital of British India. It is very clean.

Christ Church

India: Images 96

2009-09-14T06:07:00.001-07:00

This is my friend Rakish at Pressar Lake.

Rakish making Puja at the temple.

The wood carvings at the temple.

Rakish's twin brother, Mukish.

Rakish & friends singing folk songs for me.

India: Images 95

2009-08-22T07:26:00.000-07:00

What is this weed, which grows wild in the Parvati valley?

I am not 100% sure that this is what I think it is, because no one has ever pointed to the plant and told me "this is marijuana." But it looks a lot like what I see on t-shirts.

Parvati valley is known for its charas, and no wonder, as this stuff grows everywhere.

Pistils of tetrahydrocannabinol?

These are local Mandi guys. I don't know what they do besides smoke charas, as my Hindi is limited to 'how are you' and 'what's your name.'

India: Images 94

2009-08-22T07:21:00.000-07:00

Manikaran is known for its hot spring. The water here is hot enough to cook flesh.

The hot water is mixed with river water for bathing pools.

Another bathing pool. People come here to bathe, not to relax or swim.

All the river has to pass between those two rocks. And that bridge...

I got this close and decided not to cross.

India: Images 93

2009-08-22T07:12:00.000-07:00

The slums of Mandi.

A flower in Mandi.

The town of Manikaran.

The view from my room in Manikaran.

A sheep in Manikaran.

India: Images 92

2009-08-22T07:06:00.001-07:00

This is the local bus stand. It also the location where public functions are held, like the Independence day function.

This is a one-lane bridge. There is a traffic signal at each end.

And this officer in the Idea box controls the signal.

Hanuman, the god with a face like a monkey.

Donkeys are used for carrying sand for construction. These donkeys were all afraid to be the first one to step in the water.

India: Images 91

2009-08-22T07:00:00.001-07:00

This is an interesting feature of Mandi. A sunken garden surrounded by the market. At the top, parking is at street level.

A colorful temple complex.

I later discovered that they burn bodies on the river, just below this temple.

Delicate carvings on an old temple.

Some religious procession. There is one almost everyday.

India: Images 90

2009-08-22T06:55:00.001-07:00

A goat on the way to the waterfall in Bagsu. At the time it was but a trickle. Later after lots of rain, it was gushing, but I have no picture.

Food.

Birds in Bagsu.

A panoramic shot of Mandi.

An old temple in Mandi, viewed from a bridge.

India: Images 89

2009-08-22T06:40:00.001-07:00

A cold spring bath. I counted more than 100 persons - mostly Punjabis - around the pool.

This road is for 2-way traffic. It get clogged when the Punjabis come up for the weekend.

A bull hanging out in the vegetable market.

This is my friend Ravi. I spent my days hanging out here. There is a little jewelry store on the right. Mustafa, who remembers me from Hampi, works there. Incidentally, I also ran into Vicky, the scam artist in my Trials in Hampi post of last year, as well as a few others I had met in Hampi.

The cricket grounds in Dharamsala

India: Images 88

2009-08-22T06:32:00.000-07:00

A photo from the Tsuglagkhang Complex in Mcleod Ganj, where the Dalai Lama lives.

Tibetan monks protesting the Chinese government.

Monks doing laundry in the stream.

Monks relaxing on the side of the road.

A flower seen while I was searching for a nonexistent cave.

India: Images 87

2009-07-23T00:07:00.000-07:00

A special presentation from the Department of Silly Walks in coorporation with the Department of Silly Hats. The border closing ceremony, at the Indian/Pakistan border in all its silliness.

The Department of Silly Hats really outdid themselves this year at the Republic Day Parade.

India: Images 86

2009-07-17T12:22:00.001-07:00

Hey, they put down a tack coat before filling the depressed areas.

I have given up on trying to workout, so I didn't even look inside this gym.

I returned to Dalhousie and took this photo of the view from my hotel. See the burnt out areas.

Sunset in Dalhousie

Yes, more Punjabis in turbans. On weekends, they invade the hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, and drive like maniacs on the narrow winding roads.

India: Images 85

2009-07-17T12:12:00.001-07:00

People relaxing in the park, in Chamba.

A temple in Chamba.

This temple had these images, three on each side, but they seemed out of place, like someone added them later.

Lord Shiva

A street scene in Chamba.

India: Images 84

2009-07-17T11:35:00.001-07:00

Buddhist rock paintings.

More Buddhist rock paintings.

I don't know what the deal is with these horses, but whenever they returned from giving someone a ride, there were a little too excited.

I dare you to drive around this corner fast and hit me. I own this place.

On the way to Chamba, waiting for a flat tire to be changed.

India: Images 83

2009-07-17T11:21:00.001-07:00

On the way back to Srinagar, there was a landslide. We had to wait quite a while for a backhoe to clear the roadway.

On the way back to Jammu. This was the place where I had first met Shabir's brother. This place is known for their cricket bats. And I don't remember its name.

Just across the border in Punjab, military tanks being transported, while we wait for a flat tire to be changed.

My first night in Dalhousie was enlivened by forest fires. The corner of the building, at the left of the photo, was my bathroom. It was a little funny to see them fighting a forest fire with a little pink hose.

Fire coming from another direction. They were up until 5am. I went to bed at 1am. I wasn't worried.

India: Images 82

2009-06-19T07:10:00.001-07:00

I found the building materials to be very interesting. Because it does not rain here, most buildings are made of mud bricks and mud for mortar. For some of the newer buildings, concrete is used.

I think this is a calf. It is a bit furry. Animals here tend to be a bit furry because of the cold.

These might be Himalayan wild asses, but they didn't seem to be very wild.

Images from three separate meat shops.

My first Sizzler. This is a standard tourist meal throughout India. It makes a lot of noise because it is sizzling when they serve it, and people go "ooh" and "aah".

India: Images 81

2009-06-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

Shanti Stupa has images from the life of the Buddha.

One of the images, Defeating the Devils.

After visiting Shanti Stupa, which can be seen on the right of the photo, I climbed a barren rocky hill and sat for a while. I am amazed that they can coax life out of the desert.

Apparently, the government raised some tax or the other, so the people went on strike. All businesses were shut for 3 or 4 days. The only places open were trekking companies and internet cafes. But even they had to scramble to close up shop when the people came along to break the windows of any business that was open. That's what this crowd was about. I kept my distance. Then I would edge a little closer. The people would start to run, so I'd run. Then I'd edge a little closer then run when stones started flying. At the very left of the photo, there is a rooftop restaurant. They would let me in and cook food for me. But I had to hide to be sure no one would see me eating.

Images from one alley during and after the strike.

India: Images 80

2009-06-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

The Leh Palace and further up, the Nyamgal Tsemo Gompa & castle. The Gompa holds a 3-story high Buddha.

The castle is not in the best shape, but still interesting. At the top, the elevation is 3721 meters.

One view from the Gompa.

Another view from the Gompa.

A third view from the Gompa.

India: Images 79

2009-06-19T06:50:00.000-07:00

Leh is a predominantly Buddhist city. It lies at an elevation of more than 3500 meters.

The people, culture & architecture is more similar to Tibetan than to Indian.

Prayer wheels are a common sight.

There are many old, decaying stupas throughout the city.

It is interesting what you can find as you wander through the alleys.

India: Images 78

2009-06-19T06:45:00.000-07:00

There were numerous police check posts, where we had to present our passports.

Stunning desert landscape.

Pee break.

In another small town.

Example of the traditional building type. Mud bricks held together with more mud.

India: Images 77

2009-06-19T06:39:00.000-07:00

I think the mountain pass was somewhere here. I did not have out my GPS unit to check the elevation.

This area gets almost no rain.

Overnight stop in Kargil. Kargil is much bigger than this...

Lunch stop in a small town along the way.

Nice view at another stop.

India: Images 76

2009-06-19T06:24:00.001-07:00

Overlooking Srinagar is Shankaracharya Mandir. This temple predates the Islamic invasion by 1000 years. There is heavy security around it. After hiking 1.5 hours up the hill (without eating first), I found out that cameras, mobile phone & all electronic devices are not allowed. I had 2 cameras, a mobile phone, an mp3 player & a GPS unit. I couldn't visit the temple. That's when I decided to leave Srinagar.

It takes 2 days to travel by bus from Srinagar to Leh. This road, which is closed in the winter, takes you from the green forests of the Kashmir Valley, over the snowy 3529m mountain pass, Zoji La, dangerously close to the Pakistani line of control at Kargil, over the 4147m mountain pass, Fotu La, into the barren desert of Ladakh, with its improbable patches of green. I was not lucky enough to get a window seat, so my photos were taken through the dirty bus window.

One of the views while still in the Kashmir Valley.

Another view in the Kashmir Valley.

No longer in the valley.

India: Images 75

2009-06-19T06:19:00.000-07:00

Several times a day, you can see large herds of sheep and goats traveling down the streets of Srinagar.

Some of the sheep can be found on the dinner plate. Mutton kebab. On a side note: everything I ate in Srinagar disagreed with my stomach.

Panoramic view of the lake.

Two guys fishing on the lake. The guy in the blue shirt caught a fish every few minutes. The other guy had no luck.

Sunset over Jhelum River.

India: Images 74

2009-06-19T06:12:00.000-07:00

There is a heavy military presence in Srinagar and all the rest of Kashmir.

Many hotel are occupied by the military and are surrounded by razor wire.

The lake is the big deal in Srinagar, and shikaras are used to transport people to the houseboats and for sightseeing. The guy in the yellow t-shirt is Arshad. I met him several months before in Varkala Beach.

Meet Yasir. He has a shikara.

Sunset over the lake.

India: Images 73

2009-06-19T06:07:00.001-07:00

Stopped at a railroad crossing, on the way to Jammu. This guy has a pistol tucked into his waist. Jammu & Kashmir is a troubled state.

Entrance to Raghunath Mandir in Jammu. I didn't go in because cameras are not allowed. And not being Hindu, it is just another temple to me.

The first and only modern shopping mall in Jammu.

There is a Christian colony in Jammu.

Jhelum River, Srinagar, Kashmir.

India: Images 72

2009-06-19T05:59:00.000-07:00

more turbans

These guys obviously take their time in the morning.

There are different ways of wrapping a turban, and each person chooses the style that best suits him.

Some can't be bothered and just wear what looks like a stocking.

another turban

India: Images 71

2009-06-19T05:53:00.000-07:00

Punjab is the home of the Sikh religion and the best place to see turbans of all colors and styles.

Often the color of the turban matches the color of the shirt.

Some look like they were wrapped quickly without much care.

5 yards of fabric!

Younger guys generally have smaller turbans. They told me it is because they don't have the time or patience to carefully wrap a large turban.

India: Images 70

2009-06-19T05:49:00.001-07:00

At the border closing ceremony, there is a huge crowd of spectators on the Indian side of the border.

But a less inspired, gender segregated crowd on the Pakistani side of the border.

One of the more popular Indian soldiers.

I think he's bored.

India: Images 69

2009-06-19T05:43:00.000-07:00

Man praying at the Golden Temple.

At night, many people sleep on the floor inside the temple complex.

An administrative building lit up at night.

Horse and cart - still a popular mode of transporting goods.

Everyday, there is a ridiculous border closing ceremony at the Indian/Pakistani border. These are Indian soldiers.

India: Images 68

2009-06-19T05:33:00.000-07:00

My first glimpse of the Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Hari Mandir Sahib (the Golden Temple) surrounded by Amrit Sarovar (the Pool of Nectar).

The temple is built of marble, with inlay work similar to the Taj Mahal, and with gold overlay.

One of the guards inside the temple complex.

India: Images 67

2009-06-19T05:28:00.000-07:00

A building at Ram Bagh in Amritsar.

A statue at Ram Bagh.

Eternal flame at Jallianwala Bagh. This park is the site of the 1919 massacre, where more than 400 Indians were killed by British authorities.

Inside this structure is a well where many jumped to their deaths to escape the gun fire.

A monument at Jallianwala Bagh.

India: Images 66

2009-05-19T01:34:00.000-07:00

Short video clip to show the water movement at the source.
The glacier is constantly retreating. This rock marks the terminus in 1935. The coordinates near this rock are: 30° 56.270N, 79° 04.132E, and at my closest approach to the glacier: 30° 55.633N, 79° 04.748E. Calculate the distance between these two points to get an idea of how much the glacier is retreating.
Mountain goats?

Some of the more unusual structures on the mountains.

On the way back down from Gangotri, I could enjoy some of the scenery I couldn't see on the way up.

India: Images 65

2009-05-19T01:31:00.001-07:00

Gaumukh.

Gaumukh, a little closer.

Gaumukh, even closer.
Gaumukh, as close as I dared to go. A glacier is unstable and large chunks of ice could break off at anytime. 3962m is the elevation at this location, according to my handy dandy GPS unit. I really wanted to get to 4000m. I'll have to try another location sometime in the future.

Here it is - the source of the Bhagirathi (Ganga). I did not drink from it, because glacier water is really cloudy. I had forgotten about that. I did not bathe in it either. It was just too cold. But I did put my hand in.

India: Images 64

2009-05-19T01:22:00.000-07:00

Ah...Bhojvasa. It took me 8 hours to get here! Other people did it in 4.5 hours. But because of the elevation, I took my time, not wanting to get altitude sickness. I still got a headache once I arrived. In the distance, about the center of the photo, you can see Gaumukh, where the river begins.

I stayed in the ashram, sleeping on the floor, in a room with 5 other guys. Although it was very cold, the blanket (and my jacket) kept me warm.

Late afternoon moon from Bhojvasa.

A Shiva Temple on the way to Gaumukh.

Another Shiva Temple.

India: Images 63

2009-05-19T01:16:00.000-07:00

View of the scenery along the trail. The morning sun made it difficult to capture the color.

Another view.

And another.

Yet another.

I don't know what this sign says. But I know it is warning that I am about to enter a landslide area. This is a potentially deadly area, as rather large rocks come tumbling down regularly.

India: Images 62

2009-05-19T01:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, it was cold in Gangotri. I went for a short walk. It was surprisingly peaceful. Everyday, bus loads and bus loads of pilgrims come to Gangotri to visit the temple. But most get right back on the bus once they've been to the temple and the river.

The white domed building is the temple. Here the river is disappointingly unattractive.

I never know what I'll get when I order a banana pancake. This pancake tasted more like a chapathi.

Ah...finally, Gangotri National Park. This check post is located at about the 1km mark on the trail. It was a cold morning. I could not feel my toes. And I was already tired at this point.

Some of the rugged peaks visible from the trail.

India: Images 61

2009-05-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

The tiny log building in the middle of the picture is the forest office in Uttarkashi. No one in the office spoke English or they pretended not to. There was no map of the park or any useful information at all. A permit is needed to go trekking in the Gangotri National Park.

It was raining when I arrived in Gangotri. There are spectacular views on the way from Uttarkashi to Gangotri. Or so they say. It was cloudy.

The view from my guest house, with the Bhagirathi below.

The view the next morning.

Another view, just to the left. Now that the sky is clear, I know in which direction to point my camera!

India: Images 60

2009-05-18T21:36:00.000-07:00

On the way to Uttarkashi, we were stopped by road construction for more than 1/2 hour.

Uttarkashi panorama. It seemed that the Himalayas were conspiring against me again. On the day I decided to head for the mountains, the skies became hazy. There had been many fires, as it had not rained in months.

Late afternoon sun in Uttarkashi, reflected on the Bhagirathi.

Thali. My mistake was in poring all the Dhal onto the rice. It was way too spicy. I could eat only half of it.

Lizards are my new fascination. I've had enough of cows.

India: Images 59

2009-05-18T21:31:00.000-07:00

Another view of the deceptive river.

Meet my friend, Pankaj. Everyday he does a ritual that involves some smoking, drinking the water, and washing his face & hair.

There are many monkeys in Rishikesh. One day, I was chased down the road by two of them when I was returning from the river.

Here is a small Shiva Temple.

I am used to English mis-spellings on menus, but sometimes they are still funny. Take a look at the cold drinks.

India: Images 58

2009-05-18T21:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to India for another 6 months. This border crossing from Nepal is quite open. Dispite the military presence, Indians and Nepalis cross back and forth freely. I was therefore not surprised to hear that militants from Pakistan, wishing to cross to Indian Kashmir, find it easier to fly to Nepal and cross into India at this border crossing.

I am back in Rishikesh, enjoying the Ganga with other creatures.

I think pigeons might be the most populous birds. I think this is a pigeon. It made pigeon-like noises.

Another bird on the Ganga.

There were more signs warning people not to swim in the river. Today is April 26, and this guy lost his brother at this location on April 26, 2006. He was there warning people not to swim. One day while I was there, 2 Israelis drowned at 2 different locations. I don't know for sure, but I think someone drowns every few days.

Where am I?

2009-05-11T07:25:00.000-07:00

I am here.
30° 55.633N
79° 04.748E
3962m
And where is here?
Gaumukh, the face of the Gangotri Glacier, the source of the Ganga.
Ok, I am not there right now, but I was there. My pictures will come soon.

Nepal: Images 11

2009-04-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Me on Poon Hill, at 3210 meters, with the Daulagiri mountains in the background.

People come to Poon Hill for the sunrise and then leave. After everyone left, I stayed a few hours to enjoy it, just me and the birds.

The watch tower on Poon Hill

The view from Poon Hill. I did adjust the colors in this photograph.

Another Himalayan mud stove, at a guest house in Tihkedhunga.

Nepal: Images 10

2009-04-17T04:54:00.000-07:00

A hail stone lodged in a tree. I got caught in a hail storm at about 3100 meters.

Prepared for rain, not quite for hail.

The ubiquitous rhododendron.

I waited 3 weeks for clear skies like this. At 5am, when I saw this, I knew I'd have spectacular views of the mountains from Poon Hill.

The Daulagiri mountains. Nice.

Nepal: Images 09

2009-04-17T04:45:00.000-07:00

On my second morning, second glimpse of the snow capped mountains. Not the best view, but still good.

Curious

Buddhist prayer flags and rhododendron.

I almost stepped on these two. I was looking at the other side of the trail, not where I was going.

I had the pleasure of following these yaks up the mountain for a couple hours. It turns out that their pace and my pace were the same. When they walked, I walked. When they stopped to take a breath, I stopped too.

Nepal: Images 08

2009-04-17T04:39:00.001-07:00

More stone shingles

Typical Himalayan bridge

Relaxing in a hot spring pool

There is something pre-historic in the appearance of these buffalo.

The village Jhinu Danda. The hot springs is about 20 minutes hike from here.

Nepal: Images 07

2009-04-17T04:27:00.000-07:00

Flowers I saw in the Himalayas, mostly at guest houses.

Nepal: Images 06

2009-04-17T04:23:00.001-07:00

There is no vehicular traffic in the mountains. Supplies are brought up on donkeys or people.

On my first morning in the mountains, I got my first glimpse of the snow capped mountains.

That morning, the bees were a-buzzing. I had to share my toast.

Mountain home

Nepal: Images 05

2009-04-17T04:17:00.000-07:00

Man selling flutes.

More of Thamel, Kathmandu

Back in Pokhara. I'm not sure I like when they play with my food this much before giving it to me, but it was interesting and delicious.

The starting point of my 7-day trek in the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Typical stone shingles in the Himalayas.

Nepal: Images 04

2009-04-17T04:13:00.001-07:00

Look at the way this guy is carrying the load with his head. This is the way they do it in Nepal. I saw a guy carrying a large file cabinet in this way.

I thought this was Hanuman, but I asked a couple Nepalese guys, and they did not know.

Don't know who this is either.

People waiting to see the living goddess, Kumari, emerge to go to a festival.

I did get to see her. I felt sorry for the poor child, being mobbed by people holding cameras - like me.

Nepal: Images 03

2009-04-17T04:08:00.000-07:00

Nepalese children

I went on a 2-day rafting trip on the Trishuli River.

Ganesha

A Scene from Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square

Entrance to temple

Nepal: Images 02

2009-04-17T04:04:00.001-07:00

Kathmandu...it felt like I was back in Thailand.

Souvenirs on sale.

I'm not sure why this man was up in the tree, what he was saying, why people were giving him money, and what was in the pamphlets he gave them in return.

Thamel, Kathmandu - the tourist area.

Himalayan mud stove

Nepal: Images 01

2009-04-17T03:58:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Nepal. It looks just like India.

But they are on strike, and there is no bus or taxis to take you from the border to anywhere.

Boats on Lake Phewa, Pokhara. The air was really bad. There are mountains everywhere, but you could not see them.

Another view of the lake.

It is common for people to ride on the top of buses. I had to do it also. It was not very comfortable.

India: Images 57

2009-04-07T04:36:00.001-07:00

I think this is Shiva. Not sure, but he overlooks the nightly aarti ceremony on the riverbank at Parmath Niketan Ashram.

Standing on the banks of the Ganga. Here, the water is much cleaner than in Varanasi. Should I swim?

It is not advisable. No, it is prohibited.

I watched this guy almost drown. He was about 10 ft from shore, when he suddenly could not stand. He panicked and started flapping his arms up and down. He was rescued in time. But now he's really scared of the water.

I swam anyway. Where else will I get to swim in the Ganga?

India: Images 56

2009-04-07T04:30:00.001-07:00

Secretariat, Delhi

Swarg Niwas Temple, on the Ganga, Rishikesh

Rishikesh is yoga capital of the world. This building on the cliff is where I stayed.

Sunset over the Ganga

Lord Shiva's face looks like a girl - no disrespect intended.

India: Images 55

2009-04-07T04:23:00.000-07:00

People watching a cricket match on a television inside a store in Delhi.

A building in downtown Delhi

In India, people honk the horn so much that it has become meaningless.

Bike parking

I'm pretty sure there is a newer building somewhere.

India: Images 54

2009-04-07T04:14:00.000-07:00

Homeless people asleep on the roadside in Jaipur.

Chandpol Gate of the Old City in Jaipur.

Have you ever seen a goat wearing a bra?

Hawal Mahal, Jaipur's most distinctive landmark

Connaught Place, Delhi

India: Images 53

2009-03-02T08:14:00.000-08:00

Most of the inside of the Taj is closed off, but there isn't anything to see.

Taj mosque. For symmetry, it is identical to the jawab on the other side.

Another view of the Taj, framed by an arch in the gateway.

Me at the Taj Mahal. I debated with myself, whether or not I should pay to see it. Many people said it was not worth visiting, that you can see it from afar, and there is nothing to see inside. True, but it would have been unforgivable for me to come all the way to India, to Agra, stand outside the gate and not go in - just because they charge foreigners $15. (Indians are charged the equivalent of about 40 cents or something like that.)

A not so good composite photo of one corner of the Taj.

India: Images 52

2009-03-02T08:07:00.000-08:00

After seeing the temples at Khajuraho, these blank spaces of the Taj just seem to cry out from some kind of image.

This is the inner section section of the Taj. It is dark and photography is not permitted. :-) The cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan are behind the marble screen.

A closeup of the marble screen.

Roof of Taj.

The artwork of the Taj. Very nice, but it gets monotonous as it is exactly the same all around.

India: Images 51

2009-03-02T07:54:00.000-08:00

Wall carvings at Agra Fort.

Rear view of the Taj from across the Yamuna River. During the monsoon season, the river grows and covers the sand.

Taj at sunset from the northeast.

The classic view of the Taj Mahal. I know it is cliche, but it really does look just like the pictures.

You must remove your shoes or wear a shoe cover to protect the precious marble floor.

India: Images 50

2009-03-02T07:37:00.000-08:00

My first glimpse of the Taj Mahal from Shahjahan Park on the chilly morning I arrived in Agra.

The view of the Taj from the "rooftop restaurant" of my hotel.

Mischievous monkeys atop the buildings in Agra. They go into any open door or window and steal things.

The entrance to Agra Fort.

View of the Taj from Agra Fort.

India: Images 49

2009-02-22T16:50:00.000-08:00

If you were to stumble into Khajuraho, not knowing about the UNESCO World Heritage Site, you would be shocked and maybe a little embarrassed to discover, on closer inspection, that the beautiful temples, like this one, is adorned with...

...images like this! These temples were built between 950 and 1050 A.D. by the Chandelas.

If you're offended by the image above, don't watch this video. It contains more images from the temples.

In addition to the larger sculptures, the temples have a narrow band of sculptures with scenes from everyday life. Everyday life included sex. This video is of that narrow band, as you would see it if you walked along one side of Lakshmana temple.

India: Images 48

2009-02-22T07:25:00.000-08:00

Peaceful view of the river. The river is said to be septic.

People bathe in the river!

Traffic in Varanasi.

The nightly ganga aarti ceremony on Dasaswamedh Ghat.

India: Images 47

2009-02-22T07:23:00.000-08:00

There really is a difference between the dry season and the monsoon season. This parched river bed comes to life during the monsoon.

The famous ghats on the Ganga, in Varanasi.

Permanent residents.

Don't look at me...

India: Images 46

2009-02-22T07:21:00.001-08:00

Mahabhodi Temple. The tree on the left is the Bhodi tree.

Another view of the Bhodi tree.

As close as you can get to the tree.

Waiting in line to view some sacred relics.

25m-high Buddha statue, unveiled by the Dalai Lama in 1989.

India: Images 45

2009-02-22T07:18:00.001-08:00

Painting, inside the Tibetan temple, of the Buddha sitting under the Bhodi tree.

Muchalinda Lake, where the Buddha meditated and was sheltered from a storm by the snake god of the lake.

Large groups of monks from many countries gather all around the temple to meditate.

I think these are Cambodian.

They start young.

India: Images 44

2009-02-22T07:15:00.001-08:00

I don't know how the plants survive.

The glowing eyes, the red marks on the backs and the moon in the distance make these sheep on Sudder St look spooky.

Welcome to Bhodgaya, the birthplace of Buddhism.

Tibetan temple.

Detail around door of Tibetan temple.

India: Images 43

2009-02-22T07:12:00.001-08:00

It wasn't really that cold in Darjeeling, but when there is no heat in the buildings, it feels cold all the time.

No, this is not a human auction. These people are waiting to watch the parade on Republic day, in Kolkata.

Apart from the tanks and missiles showcased in the parade, the colorful headgear was most interesting.

People departing after the parade.

A girl performing after the parade.