Day 7: Ajanta Caves and Nasik
Another Deccan Odyssey day, another World Heritage site.Ajanta Caves consists of 30 cliffside temples and sculptures that trace the bend of a river. Followers of Buddha carved them out of rock over two thousand years ago.
Covered by the sands of time, these treasures were rediscovered by the British in the 1800s.
The caves are capacious individual temples hollowed out of stone. They celebrate Buddha and tell the story of his life on intricately painted walls, floors, and ceilings. Each cave also features commanding statues of Buddha. Ajanta Caves are nothing short of riveting.
Back on board the Deccan Odyssey, we enjoy lunch, accompanied by scenic views through the windows. Giving us enough time to grab our cameras, our waiters helpfully point out every waterfall, river or bizarre rock formation.
Reaching the Ultimate India
In mid-afternoon we arrive at Nasik, a holy city known for its temples and “ghats”—sacred steps to the river.
A bus brings us to this ancient district, which is spellbinding.
Nasik is the picture of India I had in my mind: temples emblazoned with pink silk banners, a spice market, religious pilgrims muttering prayers, women in blindingly brightly hued saris, a shimmering river, wafting incense: all the colors, smells, and smoke of only India.
We visit several temples laden with sculptures of sacred animals and gods and resonant with the musical sound of temple bells. We buy trinkets: more temple bracelets, and medallions (I learn that Ganesh is Tuesday’s god, and I was born on a Tuesday, therefore I must have a Ganesh necklace.) We all agree that Nasik is a sight to behold, and take scores of photos. We are reluctant to leave.
We’ll Be Back
Our farewell dinner is a festive one. Our waiters, garbed in gold tonight, freely pour Sula sparkling wine made right outside Nasik. It’s a celebration that salutes our unforgettable journey.
In the morning, the Deccan Odyssey will chug into Victoria Station in Mumbai. Only a week has gone by, but we will cherish our memories for a lifetime. Richard and I know that India’s siren song will lure us back again.
