rediff.com Travel: Safarnama: A travel feature on doing India by road

Day 11: Gwalior-Agra

Route: Gwalior - Agra: NH 26

Location:Madhya Pradesh.

Population:: 720,000

Accommodation

Altitude: 212 m

Popular Attraction: Gwalior Fort, Jai Vilas Palace

Internet connectivity:
We found one Internet café close to the fort. We were told that there are lots of others around the city. Speeds are not great but are good enough for checking email.

Unfortunately, the next morning Jerusha was sick, A stomach upset. All that pigging out finally caught up with her. By the time we got her fixed up and ready to head out, we had lost the major part of the day.

We were quite disappointed since this left us with no time to see Gwalior (and in particular the Gwalior fort). Discontented, we headed out towards Agra. The road was good and we made good time into Agra.

We passed over a beautiful river. Had to stop and take a picture.
A flock of peacocks crossing the road in a very orderly double line was a delightful sight. I was so surprised I almost ran them over but managed to swerve aside in time. Phew! Jerusha would have killed me.

We hit Agra in the evening. Surprisingly, we found, that in spite of Agra being India's foremost tourist attraction, major hotels were offering substantial discounts off the list price. I guess that is what happens when too many hotels get built and not enough tourists are lured. After settling into the room we headed out to grab a bite -- not just anything we could find but (Sigh! After a long time…) PIZZA HUT!! (Mad about pizza!)

What we missed at Gwalior
The Gwalior Fort: The fort stands on a sandstone precipice overlooking the city below. Enclosed in the fort are a number of palaces, temples and museums.
The Jai Vilas Palace: Located in the town, part of this palace is now the residence of Madhavrao Scindia, while part of it houses the Scindia Museum. The Durbar Hall has the world's largest chandeliers and the popular battery operated train that carried cigars, dry fruits and drinks around the table.

Around Gwalior there is much to see -- the royal chattris, tomb of Ghaus Muhammed, tomb of Tansen, Jhansi Rani Memorial or bustling city life from one of the cafes in Jayagi Chowk.

Accommodation at Gwalior

We stayed at Hotel Shelter (326209). Although adequate, it is by no means a steal. A little expensive for the price. List prices are about Rs 900 but as at most places it is quite easy to get a discount of 10 to 20 per cent

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