Vikram, our Indian friend and knowlegable guide of 6 years suggested we take a daytrip to visit these 2 sacred places. we travelled about an hour up and donw the steep mountain valleys towards the hot springs only to find out that the bridge that is supposed to go over the river nearby has not yet been completed. we walked along the river and scouted out some crossing places. the jeep slowly plowed through the river in a shallow spot and we took off our shoes and socks and carefully made our way over. well, I should say this is what Joseph and I did. Kelley and David leapt across boulders and rocks in about 30 seconds made is safely and dryly to the other side!
as soon as we entered the first pool of the hot springs, a group of enthusiastic young boys jumped in and played. here is Kelley sitting with her feet in the warm water.
a woman came and washed some clothes in an adjoining pool and I went to explore the women’s pool. SInce there were only young boys and no men at the site, we could enjoy the more public pool. this hot water has been streaming out of the mountains here for longer than anyone can remember.
ABOVE: this is a small temple at the site of the hot springs.
When we finished here we waded back across the river and drove again up and down the valleys and mountains enjoying spectacular views of geological wonder as we made our way to this mountain top temple.
ABOVE: this temple was carved into the mountain. after centuries of erosion and earthquakes much of it has slid and crumbled and disappeared. we had a geat time exploring caves carved into the rock, inricately carved figures and animals, gods and godesses.
ABOVE: Vikram and Joseph enjoy a quiet moment at the inner temple shrine.
ABOVE: Kelley joins them.