Our trip began at five in the morning for a one-way five hour tour coach ride. Travelling in the country is slow going as many of the roads are only two lanes. It was quite nerve wracking as I had not learned to close my eyes, but watched as the cars, wagons, and bikes would seemingly play chicken with oncoming traffic while trying to pass. At the last minute, one or the other would return to their safe lane and an accident would be averted. I kept thinking the bus is safer and bigger, right? 
Palitana, (pronounced as in Italian) is an extraordinary cluster of sacred architecture consisting of one thousand Jain Temples. Most date to the sixteenth century, and the earlier parts of the complex were destroyed by invaders. The shrines are scattered over twin summits, and the climb is 2 ½ miles one way, accessed by 4000+ steps. The guide book says it is a hike of about 2 hours each way, though it took us longer. 
David and the students completed the hike, both up and down with their handy Ghandi bamboo sticks. I tried, giving it my best, with my trusty stick. There were carriers who work in pairs or double pairs carrying those who are unable to walk either to the top or the bottom. I didn’t want to think I needed carrying either because of my age or health. On the way up, I struggled about halfway walking and resting, and catching my breath. I was asked repeatedly if I wished to be carried and I would reply, “No thank you.” When my chest started to tighten up, I relented and ignored my pride. It was not worth having a heart attack on a mountain in Gujurat! 
After time at the temples, we started our descent. The two men who had carried me halfway up, appeared and walked beside me as they regularly inquired, “Ride, auntie?” (Women of a certain age are called affectionately and respectfully, auntie. Men are called, uncle.) I was rested and my pride had returned. Surely, I could walk down, but again I had about 2000 steps in me when I gave in and climbed aboard the seat. I must have been a hilarious sight as I was not able to sit in the yoga position and my feet were extended as I sat sideways! I am hoping I am not on You Tube! Give me a heads-up if you see it and don’t laugh!
Thanks to my friend Shane for letting me use some of his photos for this post.
Namaste! This Is Incredible India! 
TalesAlongTheWay 
Reblogged this on Oyia Brown.
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Enjoyed reading the post.
Regards.
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TY
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Wonderful, Best wishes. Orchid
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So happy you enjoyed the post and took time to comment! Many thanks!
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So glad!
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Thank you for You and your blog! Wonderful and interesting reading, I enjoy it. Have a happy weekend!
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The culture in India is so amazing. I love sharing my experiences. Actually one of my followers wanted me to reblog posts on India. Great idea because I have so many more and different followers now!
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Very interesting, and I think I would have elected to be carried the entire way. My legs don’t hold me up on level ground, so no way I would trust them climbing, and for some reason it has always been harder to go down than up. Wouldn’t think so, but it is. And while I could maintain the yoga position at 18, it’s a whole new game now at 70. When I hit the floor now I look around for things that need to be picked up before making the attempt to haul myself back up.
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Would a hip replacement help you , dear friend?
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Reblogged this on TalesAlongTheWay and commented:
This is where we will be on Sunday after Friday and Saturday in Baroda and surrounds. I will wait very patiently at the bottom, though dbell will be making the climb! Stay tuned next week!
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Hi Annete,
Even though I live in U.K now, your blog take me occasionally to India. Hoping to read more posts soon.
Have a great blogging journey.
Reji Stephenson
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What a lovely comment! I am sad today because we leave Incredible India for the U.S. On fast approChing May 7after four
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Amazing months. This is our second semester in India so dig around in jan-may 2013 as well as the same dates of this year! Namaste!
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