India Trip 2009_Recollections_Part III Mamallapuram

Saturday January 10th: After Yoga and lectures in the morning we left on the bus for Mahabalipuram, now known as Mamallapuram. On the way we spotted a McD on the highway. Stopped at the snake park and saw the crocodile pit and snake pit. It was also the first time that PM and LM tried coconut water- the vendor using a sharp sickle to cut open the coconut.
Arrived at the Ideal Beach Resort in the afternoon, had lunch and hit the beach by the Bay of Bengal. The resort is well_maintained by the owner, Mr. Bose. I went out for a bare-foot run on the beach at sunset. It was hard work, and I was exhausted coming back after going up to the temple on the south end. There was a cooking demonstration followed by a Bharatanatyam dance that was poorly organized. Mr. Bose should improve this part of entertainment.
Sunday January 11th: Woke up at 6:00 AM and went to see the sunrise. BF, BG, and KD came to see as well. After the sunrise, went to have breakfast and then went to see the town. Saw the famous temples and came back for lunch. Hung out at the beach afterwards. In the evening went out for a run again. RC and EC were both out for walk as well. Came back exhausted.
Monday January 12th: Went to catch sunrise again. Most students showed up as well, but unfortunately it was cloudy. Had breakfast and left for Mahabalipuram. Had a nice tour of the rock carvings, the stone temples, and other sites. Had lunch, and continued exploring other sites. Left for Pondicherry. Not much to see. Went to Auroville Ashram. It was spooky. Return from Pondicherry was tiresome. The driver was not sure of directions. Eventually got out of Pondicherry and arrived at IGH.