Orchha 18/2/10-19/2/10
Nikki

It was an early start on the bus from Chanderi to Jhansi, the main city in the area. The bus that rolled up was a very local one (for that read rusty and ramshackle!) and at our first stop the aisles were filled with huge sacks of coriander seeds which meant that everyone boarding the bus had to either clamber over them or sit on them. After the four hour journey we arrived to be greeted by tuk tuks beautifully decorated for one of our group member's birthday. We were soon in Orchha at a lovely resort set on the banks of the river Betwa and the relatively luxurious accommodation was in tents.
During the afternoon we explored the small town and in the evening were treated to another firework display in honour of the birthday girl. During dinner musicians played and of course we were all expected to join in with the dancing.
The next day we were given a tour of the palace by a guide who was very enthusiastic, determined to include every little detail but largely incomprehensible! During the afternoon there was more free time to wander in town or along the banks of the river and enjoy the scenery.