Madurai and the thatched temples

After a scenic and again surprisingly comfy 3 and a half hour bus trip, this time with no bus surfing involved ( Forgot to mention that on the last  journey, whilst I was on the bus roof ataching a bag the bus decided to steam off out of the station, only stopping when Ria had screamed at the bus driver loud enough for the whole of India to hear, needless to say the whole bus from then on thought we were mad !) we arrived in Madurai. Home of a famous series of huge magnificent temples( yes again ) ornately decorated with unbelievable designs, or so we were promised................

We arrive at the Hotel Sree Devi, carefully chosen by us for it's impressive rooftop views of the temples, immediately we were struck by how quiet this ' busy traveller favourite' was.

Not to worry all the beter for us we've got the place to ourselves!! So after checking in we ventured up to the roof for our first awe inspiring view of ....a series of intricately woven haystacks, yes thats right , haystacks! Apparently the temples were undergoing intense renovation and were covered by straw and scaffolding...how inconvenient, do they not know who we are???? Typical, these temples have been there for 3000 years and they choose this year to re paint them!!!!Nevermind they were pretty impressive even if you haven't got a thatch fettish!! We decided to head down to them anyway and take a look, unfortunately we got turned away as it was a religous festival and we weren't wearing the correct clothing. Ria ttok this for a sign that a bit of shopping was in order and we were into a sari shop quicker than you could say Chicken Tikka Massalla !! After a very short time we out again, my now Indian wife Ria clasping a tradition Salwar Kamiz!!! Next we've got to find a tailor for a few minor adjustments and after a couple of 'no sorries, too busy' and a badly stubed toe, we find one , a deal is done and a sewing machine is in action, the Kamiz will be ready in a couple of hours. Result!!Just time for a new shirt for me, tandori chicken, chilli cauliflower, chapati, a few vodkas on the roof, some photos of the haystacks and we're back to pick the Kamiz up , which is a blinder and we're all happy, Ria, Me ,the tailor, his mate and everyone in the sewing temple or so it seems!!

Madurai is another nice place but it's time for bed , another bus awaits at six tomorrow for Kanyakamari, INdia's Lands End and maybe a temple or two you never know.....