Chandni Chowk

... translated meaning Moonlight Crossing. This is a very old area just outside the mosque. It is a maze of unbelievably narrow and winding streets. The houses seem to be leaning towards each other which only makes it feel tighter. One can stand and touch each side with their hands at points.Raj-nish explains that Delhi was under constant attack in it's earlier history and the tight architecture was designed to protect the city from being stormed on horseback or elephant. The thought alone is mind blowing to me! It was one of those precious moments of taking a glimpse back in time. Surreal! Part of me also felt like Indiana Jones!!!
Most of the stores were just a hole in the wall. Some a few steps up, others slightly below the ground. Barbershops, a taylor working an old fashioned petal operated sewing machine, jewelry, small soup kitchens with pans and pots of curries, a woman boiling a big pot of chaii, bags and bins full of different kinds of rice, flour, beans and spices. The atmosphere was fascinating! Electrifying! I want to go back there! I hope I can make it after my return from Agra...