Join us on our adventure in Jaipur, India, where we visit the famous monkey temple, indulge in mouthwatering non-vegetarian dishes at local restaurants, and sample a variety of popular Indian snacks. Discover the vibrant culture and culinary delights that make Jaipur a must-visit destination.
It is day eight in India, and we are still in the vibrant city of Jaipur. In this blog post, we will share our exciting experiences visiting the famous monkey temple, trying out some new restaurants, and sampling a variety of Indian snacks. Join us as we explore the culinary delights and cultural richness of Jaipur.
Morning at the Monkey Temple
We started our day with a quick breakfast at Cafe Bot, where I enjoyed a caramel shake. Although I initially wanted a caramel coffee, the milkshake was a sweet surprise. After breakfast, we headed to the monkey temple, a place Leah was particularly excited about. We opted for a shortcut to avoid the long climb up the hill, thanks to our helpful driver who took us around the mountain.
Upon arriving at the temple, we were greeted by the sight of monkeys enjoying the hot weather. It was fascinating to watch them interact and play in their natural habitat. The views from the top of the mountain were breathtaking, offering a panoramic look at the sprawling city of Jaipur, which is home to over 20 million people.
Culinary Adventures: Hendi Restaurant and Going Retreat
After our visit to the monkey temple, we decided to indulge in some non-vegetarian cuisine. We headed to Hendi Restaurant, known for its delicious meat dishes. The ambiance was inviting, with beautiful decorations and a diverse menu that catered to both vegetarians and meat lovers. I was particularly excited about the non-vegetarian platter, which included tandoori chicken, chicken tikka, and shish kebabs. The flavors were rich and satisfying, a welcome change after a week of vegetarian meals.
Later in the evening, we visited Going Retreat, a high-end restaurant popular among the vegetarian community. The restaurant's elegant setting and exquisite menu made for a memorable dining experience. I tried the rose Beluda shake, which was not only beautiful but also deliciously sweet and fragrant.
Snack Run: Discovering Indian Snacks
After our delightful meals, we embarked on a snack run to explore some popular Indian snacks. We met with Swanashi, who introduced us to a variety of snacks that are staples in Indian households.
Uncle Chips Spicy Treat
Our first snack was Uncle Chips, a childhood favorite for many Indians. These chips are seasoned with a mix of spices, offering a delightful crunch and a hint of heat. The unique flavors made them a hit with both of us.
India's Magic Masala
Next, we tried Lays' India's Magic Masala flavor. This snack is a classic at Indian gatherings, featuring a blend of spices that create a flavorful experience. The taste was distinct and enjoyable, making it hard to choose a favorite between the two.
Kur Kurra Cheese Flavor
We also sampled Kur Kurra, a cheese-flavored snack that reminded me of cheese puffs from America. It was light and airy, with a subtle cheese flavor that was quite enjoyable.
Masala Munch
Another favorite was Masala Munch, which resembled a spiced Cheeto. The combination of spices gave it a unique flavor profile that was both crunchy and satisfying.
Kimchi Masala Onion Rings
To wrap up our snack tasting, we tried kimchi masala onion rings, a fusion of Korean and Indian flavors. The spicing was unlike anything we had encountered before, making it a memorable end to our snack adventure.
Conclusion
Our day in Jaipur was filled with unforgettable experiences, from the playful monkeys at the temple to the rich flavors of Indian cuisine. We discovered not only the beauty of the city but also the warmth of its culture through its food. Jaipur truly offers a unique blend of adventure and culinary delights that every traveler should experience. Whether you're a foodie or a culture enthusiast, Jaipur has something special for everyone.