Tale of a sunken warrior and another who braved the odds to stand and shine and a new born

Group rides are always fun and exciting, especially when you have a new bike yet to complete her run in and your hand is itching to see what she can do. Yes, I had bought a CBR 250R and I was itching to take her out and show her the world where she would live and roam free. Now that I have broken the new born part, before you wonder what is with the warrior in the title and what wars, over work your brain; let me break it down too. This was a group ride which we did to Sakleshpur and Belur to witness a submerged church and an architectural marvel. Group being 5 of my colleagues and couple of my classmates which accounted to 8 members.

We started early on a Saturday morning, grouped together at Yeshwantapur and started our journey to our destination The Rappa resort Sakleshpur. There are no words to describe the Bangalore Mangalore highway. It is straight, smooth, 4 lanes of tarmac with a handful of toll gates. Of course we the bikers being a privileged class don't have to pay the tolls. The group which seemed sedate and slow till we hit this highway at Nelamangala junction, seemed to suddenly change mood and start ripping their rides, all cylinders blazing! We stopped at Mayura which I guess is the default stop for travellers heading on this stretch to fill up our hungry tummies. Gobbling up Idlies and vadas to fill, we headed back to hit the road towards Sakleshpur.

While we took a small butt break, and others went to get some drinks for their bikes

We headed on towards our destination cruising at very comfortable speeds on the unending straights, wading our way through the sea of dead dogs which were a common sight on the road! We reached Belur cross in no time, where we had to take a deviation to reach the resort. We took a wrong turn and carried on, only to find about the mistake later and take some villagers help in reaching our destination. This was a big mistake as the road was in very bad shape in this stretch and we got a good spanking on our bums from the unforgiving roads. 

All was agony until we sighted this. A bridge connecting habitable land between backwaters of dam built across the majestic Hemavathi river. While this meant a compulsory stop to soak in all the beauty and serenity of nature, this also meant the end of our ride and our destination was within our hands reach.

We were staying in cottage in the river banks. How cool is that to have a view of a river when you wade out of your room! Though the cottage seemed shabby and poorly maintained, the accommodation was comfortable enough. And who wants to stay in a room when you are out there to enjoy and have fun. We had lots planned in front of us.

We lazed around in the river banks for a while, so that the tiredness from the ride if existed would come down. We gobbled the up the food at lunch like a pack of hungry dogs before heading out to the island formation due to the back waters in a coracle.

Explored around the forest in the island before hitting the waters for a swim. We spotted this monster of a spider which seemed like it could gobble up one of my fingers with ease.

Calm river banks of the island.

Swimming races, acting like kids, splashing water, pulling each other down, dragging reluctant Harsha to water, we forgot all the stress and strain from work.

It was time to head back to the other side and have some more fun kayaking.

The sky was changing colours to dark orange, and we witnessed a very beautiful sunset.

Loaded up with fun, making merry, it was time to drink eat and celebrate. Ate one of the best capsicum pakodas while emptying a fine bottle of Glenfiddich, dancing to the tunes of music with few of the guests who were staying in the resort. This was followed by sumptuous dinner which marked the end of day hitting the bed, making plans to visit the warrior in our story early in the morning to capture his glory with the beaming sunrise in the form of photos.

Shettihalli Rosary church, one of the structures that went down as an effect of an effort to stop the flow of majestic Hemavathi river. It still stands tall submerged in water with all the might it can muster. The structure is accessible in summers when the water level goes down, but nonetheless this submerged church is a beauty to watch.

Given the background, we woke up at 4 as we had plans to see this warrior with the sun rising behind at its most glory. Teeth chattering, hands shivering, we readied ourselves, leaving few lazy bums behind we hit the road to the church. Guess what awaited us? If you thought a beautiful sunrise with amazing pics, you are wrong! Clouds, brats had different thoughts and decided to show up, not letting us witness the sunrise. However, beauty of this warrior can not be hidden even by truck loads of these clouds.

Awestruck we watched as the sun rose higher and higher. It was time to head back and fill up and meet our next warrior, Belur.

We headed back to the resort, rested for a while, had our fill of breakfast and bid adieu to the very friendly owner and very cute puppies and the knee pecking geese. 

We hit the tarmac, much smoother road this time as we took the proper route, hit Belur cross in no time. Boy, this is one road where you can easily do a knee down and scrape your foot pegs in the high speed twisties, or you can go down under steering or over speeding and break your bones. Everyone was in high spirits, even I decided to do a speed run as my run in was almost done. Reached Belur in no time and the average speeds maintained were in high 90's.

One of the architectural wonders stood in front of us. With delicate carvings in the stones to beautifully and painstakingly sculpted idols, this place is a feast to the eyes of historian and architecture enthusiasts. We went around looking at this masterpiece, snapping photos of every possible idol and statue which made me end up with 300 photos.

We started heading back to Bangalore with a heavy heart as it was noon and we did not want to ride in the night. Captured these beauties on the way back.

The journey back was again smooth. Apart from one flat tyre on the way back, there were no incidents. We reached back by 8 and went to bed with fresh memories of fun and amazing beauty of nature we had witnessed. They say riders don't pick destinations, it is all about the ride that matters, but this was one such ride which I got to witness a wonderful destination and a wonderful ride.

Savanadurga- Towering peaks of adventure

I find conquering rocks and mountain peaks very interesting. In this lookout for peaks and towering rocks, we landed up at beautiful Savanadurga which is around 80 Kms from Bangalore on Mysore road.

This sleeping giant of a rock looks very easy to climb and we were bit sceptic about coming to this place after getting the first glimpse on the way. Seems easy doesn't it.


The road leading to this peaceful and calm area is equally serene, with lots of twists and turns and greenery around. The only bad part is the poor roads which are non existent in some parts. 

A beautiful view of Manchanabele dam awaits you en-route and you have easy access to water from the road which will be very useful on your way back after sweating out climbing the monster awaiting your arrival.

We in the excitement had reached the foothills by 7:30 without food or having our breakfasts, trusting internet reviews about food available at the base of the hills. Yes, the food is available, but our misfortune that we took Idly with the plans to have it on our way. The food was horrible and stale and it ended up landing in thrash can.It is strongly advised to take food from city limits as you will feel very hungry atop the hill.

This is what you see at the base of this majestic rock monolith. The small Nandi statue at extreme left marks the end of trek. Seems slanty enough and easy isn't it, well you need to reach the base of the towering monolith to realize that this is a wolf in sheep's clothing. Till we reached the base, it was all fun and laughter even thinking of taking the bike to the top, but fate had it otherwise.

See how steep it is? 

This is one of the most deceptive rocks that I have climbed. Now, once you reach the base, you see the usual trek path but you also see a easy, slanted path which you will think will take you to the top, more easier than the trek path. My adventurous instincts took over my brains screams to stop and take the tried and tested route and we started taking the other path. Slipping, gripping on what ever we could, we made it half way only to find that the slope gradient had changed abruptly to a steeper angle and we could no longer climb on that path. We had to stop and reconsider and decided that we will go back and take the normal path. Seems easy? It was not to be. Climbing a slope is relatively easier than descending the same slope. Resting our bums on the rock, sliding and slowly climbing our way down, slipping and sometimes having heart in mouth moments, we made it safely to the bottom. Causalities? torn back pocket of my Jean and a torn shoe sole. All good, lets take the trek path then.

We had taken idly thinking of having it mid way. Stopped to eat it and it was stale. Now what worse luck can you have than to wake up at 4 in the morning, travel 80kms, dare to take a short cut to top only to get your bums burnt, to climb a monster of monolith, and have no food to eat! Anyway, we continued to climb sipping gulps of 2 litres of water what we had. Even this route was steep and tiring.

Chugging along huffing and puffing, taking rest where ever we could find shade of what few Cactus plants had to offer.It was very hot till we reached the top and it cooled down a lot once we reached the top. I must admit, the scenic views from the top will make you forget all what you went through to conquer this monster and you will revel in the cool and beautiful view, screaming and shouting with joy like a kid who got his favourite candy.

This is the Nandi that marks the top most point of the monolith.

This was all I could venture out to see how steep it is.

 View of Machinable dam back waters from the top.





We spent lot of time at the top. Slept for a while in the shade, snapped funny pics, and then when we had our heart full, we started our descent which was uneventful apart from tired climbers asking if we had any water left. Went down, gulped down tender coconut water, and we headed back with a heavy to Bangalore wondering about the next destination we are heading out to while waiting eagerly to see the bed for that much needed nap.

Natures best offering, Ooty explored-5 day ride to Ooty and Coonoor-Day5

This was the most painful day as were had to head out from calm and serene Ooty back to the concrete jungles of Bangalore. We took the same road via Masinagudi, these amazing hair pin bends are never enough and we had plans to ride up and come down again just for the sheer fun.

We met some wild life on our way back in the Bandipur section. Met this interesting group of spotted deer which were crossing the road. We stopped at some distance to let them cross, they looking at us stopped crossing and stood watching us. Apparently it turned out that they were waiting for us to cross and once we crossed, they resumed crossing the road. 

We went to BR Hills on the way via Chamarajnagar road.



The day was complete after chasing few Jain College buses and reaching back by 5. This was one of the best experiences to cherish. Looking forward to more monsoon trips and one more ride to Ooty to complete the left out places.

Some random shots:


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      
                                                                                                                                                                     
                                                                                                                                                                     


Let me know by comments on the suggestions.

Natures best offering, Ooty explored-5 day ride to Ooty and Coonoor-Day4

Places seen: Sims Park: Lambs rock: Dolphin Nose: Pakasuran Malai (Droog Fort)
So this was the day where we wanted to explore Coonoor and the nearby places. I had a list of places which I had picked from internet. We left at 7 from Ooty, first destination being Sims Park.

Sims Park:
The road to Sims Park is awesome as most of the roads we had seen till now. Headed on the Coonoor road and took a left into Wellington 3kms before Coonoor City. Went into the army area and it was very well maintained. Wanted to click a pic, but were shooed away by one of the guys in brown and white and I dont know probably the entire colour spectrum on his badge . 

We entered Sims park by 8~8:15 and the park seemed nice.

Couple of birds: 




This is again not worth the hype and not well maintained like the Ooty Botanical garden. We lazed around for a while and left in a hurry as we were bored doing nothing. Not recommended a visit unless visiting with kids and family. 

Lambs Rock:
This place is blessed with an amazing winding forest filled road to reach and simply breath taking views to boast of. We had a wonderful time in the mist filled place. The surroundings were very cloudy and we could not get a full view of the surrounding scenery at any point of time.

Portal to the other world : 



Highly recommended place. One of the scenic places Coonoor has to offer.

Dolphins Nose:This was our next destination. The place gets its name from the dolphins nose shaped hills surrounding the view point which again is dolphins nose shaped (Man made though) . You can see Catherine falls from this place. Catherine falls was in our list, but looking at the amount of water, we decided to give it a skip.







PakasuranMalai:
This was the last place in our list as Catherine falls was left out. But we were strongly advised against going to this place. In the tea shop guys words 
"Saar.. verry daanzzaraazz place.. No permission for 2 people.. need 10 atleast.. No road.. full forest.. Very far.. Don't go"

We were worried and we decided to get a second opinion at another place where we were assured that the place is far but doesn't need permissions and all. So we headed out to this place P(B?!!?)akasuran Malai.

On Coonoor Coiambator road, you need to take right at the first hairpin curve and go some 20kms odd to reach this place. 

The roads were comparable to NH but a single lane. We were making fun of the tea shop guy by saying this road is very daanzzaraazz over and over . Fun has to end at some point doesn't it..and so did the roads after ~12 odd kms of pure fun we hit on the first traces of daanzaars mentioned by the shop guy.

We enquired with one of the locals if we were heading the correct way, and he said yes with a wicked grin. We got to know the reason behind it later though. The road was not paved but motorable. It was a dirt track with tea plantations all around and no traces of people. We hit 3 or 4 diversions where we had to pick one road to meet a local to promptly be asked to take the other road. :banghead: 

The real fun was just beginning, the roads were turning into rocky terrain and riding on those with a pillion was a pain in the a$$. Somehow we made it closer to the base of the hill parked the bike and started our climb.







We climbed up to the hill to witness a great scenery and while getting to know that we had crossed 4 hills on our quest to reach this amazing place. You can see the entire Coimbatur city from the top as well as the Finger Dam.

If you have time and energy, this is one place to conquer. The center stand of bike,( Pulsar ones are damn low) is bent a bit due to rocks hitting it and there were times when we heard more than bearable thuds.

We headed back exhausted from this place, thrilled and jubilant feeling bubbling inside. Journey back was not very eventful and we reached Ooty before sunset for a well deserved night of rest.

Natures best offering, Ooty explored-5 day ride to Ooty and Coonoor-Day3

Places seen - Doddabetta Peak: Ketti valley view point: Botanical garden: Ooty Boat houseWe started early as we had a good nights rest and wanted to cover these places today itself.

Doddabetta Peak: Highest peak in Nilgiri's range17 kms from Ooty, winding roads.. cool breeze.. awesome scenery.. what more to expect for the beginning of a new morning.. The fun lasted till we reached the famed Doddabetta Peak. The roads leading to the peak from main road were pathetic. The place was full of people.. garbage all over the place. The place was similar to an open rice bowl which is swamped by house flies .We roamed around the peak. Felt it was not upto the fame and name which it has on the internet.



I felt this place can be skipped if you are on a tight schedule. May be the crowd was due to the day being Sunday, but there are far better places on this list which offer more scenic views than this place.

Clicked a couple of pics and zoomed off to Botanical Garden. Picked up some amazing rum and Raisins chocolates on the way from the first shop on the left on the way back . The chocolates were so good, before leaving we went back all the way there and picked up some more of these yummies to savor back in Bangalore. 

Botanical Garden:This place needs no introduction or any write up. This is one of the must visits when you are in Ooty and the garden lives up to its name. It is well maintained and a lovely place for a relaxed time.

At the entrance:



Some macro shot:



Me:


And my friend Hemanth trying our hands with gardening:


We spent good time here, had food on the way and went to explore the Ketti valley view point.

Ketti Valley view point:
This place is on Coonoor road and is on the main road itself. We did not know this fact and went inside into the roads which led us down into the Ketti village. We had good time riding in these slopes soaking in the beauty of surrounding places. Did some funny shoots on the Ooty-Mettupalayam railway track 

Heights of advertisement and competition: 


Place is fun if you have time.. Else you can visit this if you are going to Coonoor as this viewpoint falls right on the main road.

We had an evening to at our disposal and what other way to spend it than Ooty lake which was our next destination..

Ooty Lake and Boat house:It was a fun evening.. Went to 3D simulation.. goofed around with Dashing cars.. scared the ghosts in the horror house . sat on a couple of rides..toy train..Completed all this with a cup of hot Masala chai and a plate of crispy pakodas on the lake side restaurant.

This marked the end of a very satisfying day which had its fair share of disappointment and lots of fun. Also this was our last time visiting Ooty city and exploring surroundings..

Headed back to room for a hot meal and a good night sleep as we had plans ready for Coonoor next morning. 

Day 4 log is here

Natures best offering, Ooty explored- 5 day ride to Ooty and Coonoor - Day2

Day 2: Places seen- Pykara falls: Pykara boat house: Glen Morgan: Shooting point: Emerald lake: Avalanche

Ooty -Gudalur road:

1> Pykara Falls:

This is not a big water fall. It is a step type of drop, 3 steps of 4~5 feet each. The surrounding scenery is beautiful and thanks to monsoon lush green trees and dark grey clouds welcome you.

Entrance to the falls:




River gushing through:



The falls:



This is one must visit place and offered one of the most scenic views. If going via Gudalur road to Ooty, this falls on the left side ~25 kms before Ooty.


Pykara Boat house:

It is around 2 kms from the falls and the roads are bad. It is the back waters of Pykara dam which has been made a tourist place by offering boating. The prices are steep and the boat ride gets boring after a while since there is no wild life to look out for. The weather was gloomy hence couldn't get good shots of the place.



Can be skipped. Ooty lake has better options and is cheaper compared to this place. None the less, the place as other places offers a wonderful view of back waters and the surrounding forest.


GlenMorgan:

This is one not so often visited place as it involves permissions and 9kms drive from main road. On the way back to Ooty, there is a left and a board saying GlenMorgan view point. the roads exist upto some point, then there was road laying work going on. The ride is amazing with slopes, twists and turns and amazing scenery all around. 

This is a restricted area (some power plant related) and you need to take permission from the guard room. Unfortunately for us:

Me: Sir we want to visit the view point, can you please provide permission.
Guards: (who were in inners playing cards): No, some SI has come today. We can't let you go today.
Me: Sir we have come from Bangalore, we wanted to see the place, please is there a way? 
Guard1: you come tomorrow, today we cant let you go.
Me: Ok sir, turns back to leave and walks 10 steps
Guard2: Sir, oye sir.. 
Me: (Happily jumping up and down and running to guard room) Yes sir..
Guard2: Keep your camera and bags here, go make it fast..

Thanks to them, we visited one of the best scenic locations of Ooty. Since we couldn't take camera, some snaps from phone camera.





A cable pulled train at the top. The tracks run all the way down till the bottom of the hill to the power plant.



I would rate this place at the top of the must visit charts in Ooty. Photos don't do justice to the beauty of this place. This place has to be seen in real to see the best of natures creation.

Shooting Point:Plain grasslands with beautiful views all around. Too much crowd, garbage thrown all around. The place is scenic alright, but we coming from GlenMorgan were like.. what the hell is there in this place.. 





Worth a visit as this wont take much time. You can go horse riding if you want here. The views are breath taking as rest of the places.

Now we had our fill of Ooty carrots on the way, we feared rain and had taken our rain gears in a back pack. Seeing no hint of rain, we headed back to room, left the back pack there as it was getting irritating to drag it around. Had hearty food at the lodge and left for our destination..

Avalanche & Emerald Lake:This is around 35 kms from Ooty. We left at around 2 to Avalanche. The roads were amazing, full of blind curves and I was loving every moment of ride. After 15 odd kms, the roads started to get foggy and started drizzling. This further made an already beautiful nature get ready with makeup . Couldn't get the camera out due to slight rain. Posting pics taken on the way from the road.






The place is a bit far to reach, but is worth every minute of time spent to reach there. We had to get our reluctant asses to get out of this beautiful place as I feared a similar fog filled road as seen yesterday.. and thoughts of riding these twisties in fog sent chills down the spine 

This ended an amazing Day 2 of our trip.. Gobbled up all the food thrown at us and I was back to my new found love (bislery bottle) with open arms . Dreaming about the places to see next day.

Day 3 log is here