Kite Fighting in Jaipur

After a not very promising start to Jaipur, we've grown to really like it here and have had a great time. It's taken us a long time to get used to the busy-ness of India, but I think we've got it now!! The people here are really friendly and hospitable, whether they are trying to get your money or not. We've found that once the bargaining is over, people are still really lovely and will do their best to help you out if you're stuck.

They have recently had a kite festival in Jaipur, which we missed by 2 days. There are still loads of kites around, though - mainly stuck in trees! We decided to buy one and ended up with 3 for 2 rupees (glass string for 20rs!). Our attempts to fly it were rubbish, but some kids helped us (and laughed at us) and then managed to cut the string of our kite with theirs. Turns out, they don't just fly kites here, but fight with them. After losing two kites in 10 minutes, we skulked off with our last one (to lots of laughter!).

Yesterday, we went to the Amber Fort which was very impressive. We decided to do a 7km trek to another fort. It was obviously hard work and at one point we were chased by a big monkey. It was worth it for the view of the city at sunset, though... and the beer that went with it. Luckily we met a nice Kiwi guy who was able to show us a quicker, monkey free way back down to the city.

We're moving onto Ranthambore Tiger Reserve tomorrow, which will be cool, but we're both unexpectedly sad to be leaving Jaipur.