An early start and two breakfasts...

After last nights run round the Chandni Chowk market, a late dinner and lots of faffing around the proposed early night became after 1 am and this was on top of the the fact we had virtually no sleep the night before!  So when the alarm(s) - we made sure we'd set plenty - made their presence know at 4am (!!) we were too stunned to be stunned.  So we just got up and went.  Bet none of you though either of us were capable of such an early and prompt start!

What a difference the journey to the station was this morning compared with the chaos of last night.  Think they must have all still been abed, where I would have been if we weren't catching the 6 am Bhopal Shatabdi express to Agra. 

Bicycles are everywhere,  including modern art installations in the railway station.  Think this must belong to the tea wallah.

We made the train with 30 minutes to spare  - according to the station clock.  

Once we settled into our seats we rolled off into the darkness.  Having never travelled first class before I can't compare our Indian service with British Rail, but the Meals on Wheels team were stars on the service front.  Complimentary English language newspapers, bottled water and not one but two breakfasts, one of which was cooked. All curtiously provided madam!

Breakfast one, provided by the hotel with coffee onboard quickly followed by

breakfast number two.  Southern Indian savoury doughnuts with dipping sauces...

In the palm of my hand is a complimentary digestive mix of fennel seeds and sugar crystals; strangely pleasant and mildly addictive!

And it's nice to know that womens' welfare is of consideration...at lease in writing.

And before we know it we have reached Agra

Where even the car was happy to see us!