Took the train from New Delhi train station (5.25 p.m), having arrived from Amritsar at Old Delhi. Bought tickets from the over crowded first floor; for Agra, and could only get a 3rd class, non- air conditioned seat......quite an experience. As usual the train stopped at every station en-route, and progressed at snail speed for the first half of the supposedly 3 hour journey. What with being tired, hot, and surrounded by sweaty, dirty companions decided to alight a Mathura (45 mins from Agra).
On arrival at Mathura was welcomed by the usual 5 to 6 rickshaw drivers. All you want when you arrive in a new destination is a little peace and quiet, to get your bearing before heading out into the night to find somewhere to sleep; but it's never like that.....unfortunately.
Well, found a Guest House.......cheap. It can only just be called a house, and you certainly don't feel like a guest. Guest houses here take on a different meaning. First night slept reasonably well, apart from a few ants, and fleas. Second night, left my room twice between 1 a.m and 2 a.m because of the noise, and had to literally threaten the night watchman and his group of friends before they would oblige to reduce the volume. Being extra polite the first time, was a waste of time!
As for Mathura, the old part of town, and bizaar area are much the same as anywhere else. The Krishna Temple by the Vishram Ghat (steps going down to the water's edge) is interesting to see. Only spoilt by the usual litter, stench of urine (made worse in 45 degrees temperature, open drains, and so called Krishna follows approaching you, and saying 'Hari Krishna ten rupees'. The next day visted a few other interesting sites in the area, but glad to move on to Agra.
Tomorrow is another day. Really need a quiet, clean room!!!
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