Pushkar – Beawar - 90 km (approx.)
As unique as Pushkar was, I had itchy feet and wanted to get going. Getting out of
Pushkar was no easy task, especially trying to avoid the main road to Ajmer. My path
ended on a sandy track that required retracing my steps. Ultimately, it must’ve led me
in a vast circle, as what should’ve been a short day turned into a whole-day affair. I,
sadly, lost my odometer but guessed the distance at around 90 kilometres.
Almost being robbed three times during the day made me realise Rajasthan wasn’t
safe. Using minor roads to avoid the congested highway was clearly a mistake.
The first incident involved three guys on a motorbike waiting along a particularly
lonely stretch. I intuitively knew trouble was brewing, and on reaching them, the one
grabbed the handlebars. He then (quick as lightning) grabbed my phone (in the
handlebar holder) but, mercifully, dropped it and then sped off.
The second incident involved a middle-aged man who grabbed hold of the bike. I’m
not sure what he wanted, but he had an axe, and best not to argue. He pointed to the
front wheel; I wasn’t sure if he wanted the wheel, an inner tube, or the bicycle. He
then indicated taking a photo. Unsure if he wanted me to take a picture or the
camera, I told him I had no camera. He let go of the bike and I sped off as fast as
possible.
During the third incident, a woman appeared from nowhere and started hitting me on
my back with her hand. Maybe she was mentally ill or wanted something, but I didn’t
stop. Afterwards, I followed a bicycle vendor and stuck close to him to Beawar. A good
thing too, as he chased away a few persistent followers.
No doubt it was a relief to reach Beawar. Finding accommodation was more
troublesome as all rooms were full due to wedding ceremonies. Maybe they weren’t
licenced to house foreigners. Eventually, the Hotel Shree made good enough digs and
a place to close the door behind me. Phew, what a day.