Woke up early on our decadent houseboat to the muzzein's call floating across the lake. Breakfast was served on deck so we could watch the venetian style gondolas gliding back and forth and the eagles diving for fish.
Srinagar is a predominantly muslim city that has been troubled by political unrest for many years. Things are relatively settled at present but recent demonstrations and a shooting by police means we've left most other tourists behind. It's a beautiful city of 4 interconnecting lakes and elaborate gardens. We started by exploring the old quarter, then visited temples and mosques, murghal gardens and poppy fields. No visit to a city in India is complete without visiting its artisans. Easy in Srinagar which is most famous for its magical kashmiri carpets. 5 years work for a single exquisitely beautiful carpet. Worth the $5000 price tag but a little more than what I normally spend on carpet. Bryan liked the elaborate wood carving best but equally as labour intensive and expensive.
We plan to follow the silk road to Ladak but currently the passes are still blanketed in snow and the road is closed. So we are stuck in Srinigar on an indulgent household with our wonderful tour guide, Jussef, organizing our time. I'm not really complaining.
Namaste Sandy
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