Still not far from Chennai

We had a full day in Mamallapuram but chose to spend it in a folk museum 30km back towards Chennai - it was brilliant, with dancing, lots of old buildings dismantled and brought in, weavers, potters and hundreds of Indian tourists. 

The next morning we did the bits of Mamallapuram we had missed including the famous "Shore Temple" and the "Five Rathas" - more carved rocks.  And then the amazing shell museum which is exactly what it says on the tin a huge collection from all over the world.

We wanted to visit the famous Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary so headed for Chengalpettu, where we seemed to be the only foreigners in town. Anyway, spent a great morning watching birds before returning for our now habitual veggie "meal" - basically a pile of rice with several small veg side dishes refilled as often as you can manage and all for less than £1.50.

All our travelling so far on local buses much to the amusement of the school children.

Now heading off to visit big temples.

Into Tamil Nadu

After two days in non-touristy, busy, smelly Chennai (formerly Madras) we are now in very touristy Mamallapuram 60km south on the coast (a £1.50 bus ride for two!). Managed one temple in Chennai but not a lot else to see - ate well though.  People come here to admire the carved rocks on the hill in the centre of town - and they are impressive! Had nearly forgotten how much we liked India last time, so great to be back, smells and all - the people are so helpful and living is so cheap.