After breakfast we went to Jantar Mantar, an astronomical and astrological site that was built in the 18th century. The giant sundials here are accurate to 2-tenths of a second. The largest sundial in the world is also here. Next we went to the City Palace Museum where we saw textiles, robes, weapons, carpets, and furniture. Pictures were displayed of the maharajahs with descriptions of their accomplishments. We ate lunch in the palace cafe where we were served soup, sandwiches, fries, veggies, and dessert. The soup spoons, made in India looked like small soup ladles.
Each sign of the Zodiac is displayed. I am a Gemini.
Largest Sundial in the World
Some more of the equipment
After lunch most of our group went back to the hotel. Four of us, however, were taken by taxi to the Silver and Art Palace. We were met by a man who showed us fairly large chunks of gemstones. Another man demonstrated the polishing of some of the higher quality small gemstones. Then we went into the showroom. After much browsing, all of us bought something. I bought a beautiful silver ring set with red stones. Since I wear lots of red, this should provide years of pleasure.
At 6:15 this evening we were put into groups of five to go to dinner at a local family’s house. Five of us went to the home of Mrs. Navita Mehrishi. She, her husband, and two children live in her father-in-law’s home. Her father-in-law is a retired policeman who is now a defense lawyer. Her husband was in the military, but now he works for FEMA. There is a renter upstairs who runs a youth hostel on that floor. Two exchange students live on the third floor. She is an artist, and she took us on a house tour. She loves to cook, and she served some very tasty dishes. I had never had most of them before this. Conversation came easily, so we were surprised when her husband said that our driver had arrived. Everyone was in a jovial mood when we left.
When we got back to the hotel, I decided to go into the hotel shop. I found quite a few beautiful things there. I found lovely gifts for my granddaughter, sister, the neighbors, and even myself! It has been a lovely day.