Marco polo (1254-1324) is probably the most famous westerner who traveled on the silk route. His journey through Asia lasted 24 years. He was only 17 years of age when he embarked upon his journey with his father and uncle. Marco Polo became a confidant of Mughal King Kublai Khan who ruled China then. Marco Polo was a gifted linguist and a keen observer. During his travel through North India, he admired the techniques of Yoga when he saw yogis in meditation and other yogic postures who looked very serene and poised.