|
"A magnificent, ancient temple - complete with marble inlays, glazed tiles,
filigree partitions, priceless old wall paintings and gold domes - is flanked
by an old fortress protected by high walls as well as committed believers. In
front, a maze of small shops and houses gives evidence of riches and prosperity
in this otherwise poverty stricken remote region in Northern India. Relentless
hot dry winds haunt the plains here during summer, and keeps this little oasis
isolated from the outside world. The law of the land is dictated by harsh nature
- a fine place to start a religion or cut shady deals, maybe even both. Fierce
battles have rolled across this barren land for centuries and hardened its inhabitants.
Visitors are intruders, as many naive backpackers unwary of government warnings
have learned the hard way. No outsider ventures into this territory - unless they
are on a mission, highly trained and well equipped..." |
|