Today was a good day riding. Shorter, less hilly and not quite as hot as yesterday. We were on mostly small back lanes – some unpaved but nothing too bad. The friendliness of the people continues to impress me.

There is a rhythm to the ride. In Africa it was governed by the sun, here it is hotel timings that appear to be the constraint. We start at 6:45am to drop off our bags so they get loaded in the truck. At 7am is a breakfast buffet style. In between, need to make sure to stock up on water.

After not quite finishing yesterday I was motivated to get out on the early side and keep riding before it got too hot. A random road intersection shows how dogs are accustomed to hanging out in the middle of the road. One or two barking today but better than yesterday.

Stupas along the way.

Coke stop. Shortly after this were some archaeological ruins though I decided to keep going and not stop.

Lunch stop. Felt better than yesterday and kept going.

I stopped and was greeted by a whole entourage of kids. People continue to be very friendly. Many smiles traded, waves, hellos exchanged as well as a sequence of good mornings. There seems to be genuine curiosity about us cyclists that have landed in their midst. Something I really enjoy about cycle travels.

More scenes along the way. Without much difficulty was finishing early today.

Shrine with golden lions and a golden Buddha.

One last coke stop.

At the hotel to pick up my bag and relax for the afternoon. Nice day of riding.