Journeys Explored

Juley Ladakh

2011-09-10T17:45:00.002+05:30

In my way of “Experiencing Hi-gh” to the Majestic Land & People of Ladakh, India, the journey of knowing, understanding and sharing happened…

With Juley Ladakh, I bring onto you how I “Experienced Hi-gh” while Volunteering to teach Ladakhi students, Trail Running at High Altitudes and Exploring & Understanding the magical Natural, Cultural & Eco-friendly wonders Ladakh offers!

Check http://www.juleyladakh.com for more....

Juley!
Ankur

A Common Run with HIGH

2011-07-03T22:53:00.007+05:30

Today, Ran a Very Common Run yet Quite Different...

Just some juggling with words, here's for you all...

Garmin went off to sleep, giving Numbers a break!
Shadows were running, while I was wondering...
Saw an Old fella spinning so high, inspiring the lot all right!
Smile I wore throughout went on, off to the crowd!
Ran I with belief through the hollow of darkness.. (No streetlights at 2000hrs ;))
Music poured in & out, through the earplugs and strides..
Sped on a high note, Cruised at an easy rhythm!
'BORN TO RUN' chipped in, enlightening me through its life in playlist!
AIR at the end, invited me to the 'People Of City'..
Moving , watching, working, sleeping, driving, walking, smiling..
I went on, only to 'DO SOMETHING' now...!

Summary : 10.6 km || 01:08 ||06:24 pace

Mumbai Full Marathon 2011

2011-03-20T03:34:00.006+05:30

Before my thoughts get off in oblivion, I thought maybe I need to jot down my journey to my first full marathon. I always wanted to run a marathon but never followed any plan or training. Just out of curiosity, I registered for the full marathon way back in August’10. Doesn’t 42 sound small, may be or may be not? But when you go out and run, you know it for yourself! And I know it now, why marathon is called the Marathon!

Well, I started running kind of consistently from May’10 onwards though it was never as training for any event. Running for me came as an element that aligned my routine!

As for practice and so also for fun, I ran Pune & Goa half marathons apart from a 31k practice run in Mahabaleshwar. No doubt the magnitude of full marathon is what makes it so surreal. Marathon is not just about the day of marathon but the result of days’ practice piled up till M-day. And Marathon is the best way to understand that results come only after consistent effort for substantial amount of time.

Rewinding back to the day before marathon... I along with a great runner friend Dhaval reached Goregaon after collecting all the bibs and jazz. Yes, ‘jazz’ why? For a double or triple dozen goodies that were handed over to runners included chat masala, a couple of other to-cook products such as noodles. Wonder whether M’bai marathon organizers have tied up with dieticians to come up with new research- spices & masalas are nutritious for runners! ;) Someone please help out dear sponsors to have better marketing strategies next year. Pre-marathon pasta was due; no way could I have missed it. Did had pasta and followed by amazing Gujarati dinner before finally dozing off.

The D Day was good. We reached reasonably early. Meet loads of friends both from Pune and Mumbai alike. I love the atmosphere at marathon start, so much energy buzzing around, WOOW.. before the actual ‘suffer-fest’ starts..! :O

Ran pretty good until I guess 27-30k, after which sun, concrete surface, humidity, Bandra Worli sea link climb, all started to test me real hard! Really don’t have any count of no. of Gatorades, water bottles, ice packs, relly spray I might have consumed! Rather than recalling my hard run I would list out what went wrong...

So, here’s some Learning I would like to note for myself or someone who care any....

- Shoe's your Darling:

Wear a shoe which you use while practicing. Make sure the size of shoe is bit bigger than your actual foot size since your foot swells after running a couple of miles. Went adventurous with different kind of shoe, not the one I usually use for runs and Suffering was very much evident. Not necessary to go for an expensive running shoe if you’re not up for but just make sure, there’s proper ventilation and space allowing your foot to settle in case it swells. Obviously considering that you don't run barefoot!

- Rest is Game Changer:

Don’t tire yourself the evening before the marathon. I was busy searching the streets of Mumbai for a specific dry fit cap all evening, Ohh Crap!

- Surface speaks:

Practice on the surface, be it concrete, tar or dirt track, where the marathon is planned to be. Especially, be careful of concrete surface for it hits pretty hard while at the same time it radiates heat on rather sunny day.

- Lastly and most Imp:

Practice, Practice & Practice! Also build the knees strong. Try core exercises, yoga etc!

So, finally I did completed my first marathon, a total of 42.195 km in 5:49:03, dismissal timing though! Yet, I did it and must say it’s GREAT FEELING! Do it to know it, I say..

Lastly, I must thank all the Mumbaikars not just the organizers but the rock bands, civil people who came to streets to cheer us up... I WOULD RUN MUMBAI MARATHON JUST FOR THAT BUZZ & ENERGY OF MUMBAIKARS, firstly and only then for the Superb Early Morning Views of Bandra-Worli Sea-link and Marine Drive! And thanks a lot Nitin to help me, a partial handicap then, get back from Mumbai post-marathon!

Strawberry RUN 1-1.1.11

2011-01-04T00:35:00.021+05:30

1-1.1.11? What's this number crunching all about?
May I ask you to trigger those mathematical tit-bits you learnt back in school days? No not much though! :) Well, before you are really bugged with all 1's-0's & symbols, let me go straight...

As 2010 evolved over into 2011...

On the very new day 1.1.11 of 11 year of this century,
I thought of Bidding Adieu to the Strong year & the Happening Decade ending on the Last Day -31st of Dec,
Pitching my 1st Strong Run on 1.1.11
Running exactly 11111k(binary equivalent of 31). Yes, its 31kms!

"Running at places makes you go places...!" I don't know how, but it indeed does whether literally or otherwise! No wonder I have loved running on diverse terrains involving different challenges! And why not, all the runs at places be it -Auroville, Goa, Pune or now Mahabaleshwar - have left out colorful & unique memories coupled up with wonderful learnings! Reminds me of Ignite presentation "Travelling the Different Way" that I gave in Feb'10! Lived it somewhat...!:)

Looking exactly an year ago, I did the Strawberry Ride around the same time last new year and carrying on with the tradition, I thought why not jolt out a Strawberry Run this time! So, here it was the run from Panchgani to Mahabaleshwar and back to Pachgani, a total of around 31kms!

I & Sushil, a seasoned runner, started off the run around quarter to 10 after reaching Panchgani the same early morning on motorbike! Only thing I'd like to say about motorbike ride- it was freaking 'CHILLING-COLD' that morning & all I remember is my glove-less hands were Numb holding the straight bars of motorbike!

Eventually after reaching Panchgani, we started off the run a little ahead from the main market at 9:52:15 am, keeping little targets mapped at Mapro, then Venna Lake. The road runs through the continuous tree canopy. Thereby, despite starting quite late, heat didn't really bother much. After negotiating a couple of climbs, we passed through the point of Mapro Garden, a popular strawberry resort, by 10:35:30. Tourist season being at peak, traffic was really heavy! Running down under a speedy SUV could have been a probable sight but given that we took up right side running alike right side driving of Europe, we gave ourselves more chances! ;) The straight route with umpteenth no. of gradual climbs & slopes goes on until the climax uphill just prior to Venna lake. Had chucked up 16kms in around quarter to 3 hours by then. Given the tourist season, lakeside had turned out to be another chowpatty with loads of food stalls apart from regular boating. Realizing the shortage of drinking water, we made a quick water purchase & started off the back journey to Panchgani.

Though the route was same all throughout while running back to Panchgani, parameters were turning fatal. Noon Sun being at head, it's always a task! Further on with the day progressing on, tourists had started pouring heavily giving rise to hefty traffic & little space to run. Plus, as per my 21k experience, I'd never really felt any need for enough energy bars but for that day esp post 25km! May be couple more of those might have helped! Though we carried on the run, my strides reduced minimal to the extent that walking could have been faster.Considering Mbai full marathon 2 weeks from then, I deliberately eased the run rather than exerting much. Finally after a grind of 4 hrs my first strong run of 1.1.11 got a (period).

Well, talking about 0's - 1's, I m again stranded on the theory of 1's & 0's! Say white or black, say full or empty, say audible or mute! Wonder whether any characteristic is a variant of just two extremes or simply one of the varieties of different extremes ?? Leaving you all to ponder on... and add on to your platter...

W1SH1N9 Y0U A11 A H1GH N0T3 F0R TH3 SP3C1A1 Y3AR 0F 2011.... :D

Goa, I come running towards you!

2010-12-24T03:34:00.012+05:30

► ►Moving ahead Ups n Downs,

~~~~ With the Calm sea Waters by the Side,

And Cheery birds by the Fresh morning skies,

>>>> Ran Ahead I.......

♪♪ ♫ Spicing with wonder Goan musik,

~~~~ With fabulous flavor of support,

Taste of 21 was nothing less than a curry!

♣ ♣ Was it really just a run,

☼ ☼ Wonder I wonder...

-wrote while travelling back from one & only one Goa of India completing Goa River Half Marathon!!!

With a couple of other engagements and constraints hovering all around, giving Goa River Marathon a miss was all on my mind. But do you really it's that easy? Or rather not going would have helped me any better..No..straight NO..reason being a year is too long a time for me to wait for such an exclusive running event in "Goa" ! Yielding to temptation was the only way to get past it, I realized! :O So, there I got registered for Goa River Marathon on the last day.

While Sri & Meena had reached a day earlier, I joined them up later. We settled up in Margao before actually venturing out. Although I was all abuzz about the happenings & places-to-visit in Goa- all thanks to our friends & fellow passengers I met en-journey, we didn't really cram out any exhaustive plan whatsoever. After collecting the marathon bibs & tee at Vasco, we then ventured over to Majorda! Do I need to mention anything beyond,,,Goa & its beaches...Woaahh! Goa is such a lively and colorful place that it can make the saddest of saddest alive to dance to its tunes(pun intended)! Went on ahead to Colva beach and snapped a deal of 200/- per head for short round of parasailing. Further on realizing the time and preparations required for next day marathon, we dropped down the plan for Paloleum beach, another beach off south. Finally after a day abuzzed with Goan flavor, we were back to the rest place in Margao. A curd rice and there the pre-marathon-desi-dinner was checked! Enough Carbo-loading, I guess!:O Don't know but when there seems not much option, curd rice is the safest bet! With all the jerseys, bibs, shorts and shoes and time-chips all around, the exciting & enthusiastic fever of marathon was already picking up that night!:)

After whole lots of preparation, riding as early as 5, we drove through pitch dark chilly winter-y mornings of Goa all the way to marathon start point! The day was 19^th Dec, Goa Liberation Day! Starting point being at Baina beach, the cool breeze all the way from the Arabian Sea, welcomed the enthusiastic runners from almost all the major cities of India. Well, why would one miss running at Goa in the month of Dec?! I wonder!! Runners - Pros & Amateurs alike (around 200 participated for half marathon event) could be seen stretching & warming up just by the backyard of beach surrounded by bunch of coconut trees. Well, after having my traditional date-feast (khajoor!), I was all set..!!!

An early morning start, cool breeze, birds chirping around, low humidity levels, lovely music bands, ever so enthusiastic volunteers & last but not the least flock of energetic runners summed up for an awesome start to the half marathon! Well, if the start point, being the beach, was so captivating, wonder how the route would be? From Baina beach onwards, all along the Zuari River, went on the route. For the first couple of miles, run went on all through the otherwise sleepy town of Mormugoa. Further on, a couple of climbs and descends added to the flavor of route while Zurari river made up a for lovely viewpoint all along the left side. As for 21k, we were supposed to do 10.5k forward and then back 10.5k to the initial position. So, every climb was a slope turned on the back journey! Though my start went out a little slow, I picked the pace post 10k, possibly because I didnt really warm-up initially.

As for the support, Mobile Toilet booths were placed at couple of locations while water stations were put up every 3 km or so. Kudos for organizing such a wonderful event to RunnerforLife team. And Goan folks for making it so special for us even on a rather lazy Sunday morning!

Eventually, I got my personal best performance till date of 1:58:09 for 21k. Really felt good to have achieved sub-2 goal.

Further on, we went around to Don Paula beach thats closer to Panaji. Met a friend from Ladakh tour before it was time to return my rented bike & resign back home!

I bid adieu to this lively & colorful Goa only on a note to myself that I'll be back soon......very soon!!!:)

Comment on or mail me if you like! (plz refresh the page if the comment tag isnt visible!)

Sholay Hojay!

2010-11-22T03:26:00.026+05:30

“कितने आदमी थे? “, Echoed... “सरकार, दो...”, a reply bounced from other end!

The first voice hammers back,” दोoo.. *%$%* वो दो और तुम तीeeन .....”

As I stepped ahead, another aroar happens “तेरा क्या होगा कालिया?”. Pondering what's happening around, I turned back a little before hearing another rather gentlemanly angry cry from behind,
” रामगढवालो ने पागल कुत्तो के सामने रोटी डालना बंद कर दिया है”

What’s happening? What does this mean? Where am I? Who are they? Have I lost my mind? You must be wondering- I’ve gone nuts! Well, for those of you little aware of India might have got an idea.. Yeaa! You got it right, all of you Bollywood craziers! This is indeed coming from one of the legendary Indian films, SHOLAY (1975)! The flick’s so popular with masses that its dialogues have become common place with junta. But why are we talking about it? And for what reasons here at travelogue?

Well, I'm talking about the 'very' land where Gabbars, Sambhas & Kaliyas of Sholay enacted their ḍacoit-ic stories - "Ramgarh" or say Ramadevrabetta in Ramanagaram. Apart from Bollywood angle, this region, which consists of several granite rocks, caters to the growing breed of short rock climbers. Moreover, it is believed to separate two distinct crustal blocks of Archaean age, giving it a geological importance too.

Getting on to this exotic place had its own exotic twists and turns in story. Having a weekend at our hands, I and my friends planned over a journey towards Mysore! Well, there’s a catch...it was supposed to be budgeted!- watch out for smallest budget algorithm, do we have anything like Dijkstra's or Bellman-Ford’s? Hehe.. No wonder, we were supposed to frequently change vehicles gauging the weight of wallets, eat & drink cane juices, navigate around, learn & innovate our strategy moment by moment, thereby plan out for next move & move ahead ...may I term it dynamic travelling!;-)

Will we reach in time?

Will we get right accommodation?

Will we see all places on checklist?

Will we get enough & nice food?

Will we have fun??

None of the above really mattered but for last one! :)

So, here we, three friends, started from Bengaluru, towards Mysore (the destination; ya I know it’s so not humane to be vaga-bond in society and travel to where...where??? We need some vague place atleast...naah?!) Eventually after a bus ride, a walk of around 4-5 kms, then matador ride, we reached a sub-urban railway station of Nayanda Halli. While whiling away at railway station, we got to know of a place called Ramanagaram, where Sholay was shot, enroute Mysore. Finally boarded a dhannu (read:local train) for Mysore! Clock was ticking hard, while the train was barely cruising and to add on, darkness was just paving its way through the evening. By the time we would have reached Mysore, city might have slept and as we are, always short on time, we didn't really had next day in our hands. Adding to that, may be it was our beloved Gabbar's call that made us drop off at little station of Ramanagaram without having any second thoughts!

Without anymore thoughts we took a rick to 'THE' Place, but as it turned out it was pretty dark and we could barely wander around. Fun element was somehow catching up but never did I realize until I was back! Whether to head ahead to Mysore or go back to Blore, was the question! But picture अभी बाकी था दोस्त! :) Gradually, after having sumptuous dinner, we decided to stay on, क्या करे गब्बर ने जो जाने न दिया! :)

With a pure dawn up next day, we were at Ramgarh (Ramadevera betta) again! Our date with Granite rocks of Ramgarh went out smooth. As if Lost in a fairy tale, with the wonderful panoramic views all around, we were moving ahead aimlessly just trying to find mysterious.. what? ( i wonder... wonderland). No doubt the rocks are the true beauty! If only I could relate, it looks distantly similar to Macchau Picchu (though I haven’t been there yet!). You may also spot a temple of Lord Ram uphill.

Moreover for you, future travellers, starting August'11, Resort & Spa, conceptualized on the lines of movie Sholay across 6.6 acres of rocky terrain, is starting up! Those of you who want to re-live the movie magic with the likes of Gabbar, Thakurs, Basantis must take a note! For adventure freaks, try going in for a climbing session; there are couple of clubs ready to take you onto the rocks!

Re-living the Sholay, getting lost amidst a fairy tale, and livin a Vaga-traveller, what more can I ask for a weekend?!

Quick Facts:

Transport:

Bengaluru-Ramanagaram:

- 45kms(1 hr by road) OR

- Board a train going to Mysore & drop off at Ramanagaram

Comment on-how did you find the post or mail me if you need any more info!

How Panduleni Happened!

2010-09-15T04:42:00.006+05:30

“Saturated you feeling any,

Fret not, think not,
Kick those doors off,
World's all open for you,
Explore, Energize, Egnite!! “

On my way to get unsaturated, I set off from my base location for a while. And mind you, fresh surroundings & new scenarios, made the intended difference!

Reached Panduleni (also known as Pandav Leni), UNESCO & a World heritage site, around 8km from Nasik. Wonder how cave man drilled down those caves off monolithic rock? And that too with superbly designed platforms, sculptures, statues and even windows, most of them crafted out of monolithic rock. Observing the designs and structures in monolithic rock, I could spot the contrast in current world where every possible element is assembled of different pillars, beams or slabs or for that matter complete build. Moreover, talking about the technicalities - the placement and design of pillars (some of them being octagonal shaped pillars, usually we have round shaped pillars) and angled beams at some leakage prone areas, made me wonder the level of expertise in technology/soil-earth study they might had then! Not to forget the caves also have excellent arrangement for water, with skilfully chiselled water tanks, exquisitely carved into the rocks.

No wonder, these structures were built superbly with maximum...wait... ‘total’ utilization of natural resources! Though this is coming from me,a non-arch person but I take liberty to make a judgement!

Well, as I turned back to history, I found that Panduleni caves, which are the group of 24 Hinayana Buddhist Caves, were built during the era back to 1st century BC -2nd century AD. The sculptures & carvings on the walls as well as the pillars really adored the place. They truly symbolize & define the 'then' life with beautiful elaborations of cattle, warriors & religious symbols. No wonder these caves are the truly a product of an era be it the exceptional rock-cut architecture, customs, culture & or religion then.

Most of us might have picnic-ed at caves since childhood, but only when we start looking at them finding a reason for each design, carving or placement, do we start realizing how much effort & skill must had gone behind making of such legendary structures, which are standing firm through ages!

No wonder this visit to such a wonderful site enriched me with new thoughts, know-how & may be a legacy of stories more to be explored...................

As for any specific info about place, Google! You may check this too!

Korigad - A Green Heaven!

2010-08-30T00:15:00.025+05:30

If you are in Lonavala, or for that matter in any mood to unwind with small trek, Korigad is best option for you!

Located in the closet to Lonavala, Korigad is a famous fort of Shivaji Maharaj known for its unique & beautiful views. With greenery all around, lakes on the top and sprawling Amby valley campus down the valley makes it for a perfect destination in monsoons. A small trek from the base village of Peth Shahpur will take you not more than 30-40 min even for non-trekkers with total photo drama et al'. :) Not so known fact but Korigad also boasts of lots of small caves/closets. Well, the name Korigad hails from Koria Devi, whose temple can be spotted on the way. There are others temples too of Lord Shiva and Ganapati.

Well, I’d just like to rewind that day a little....

The plan was to catch a train to Lonavala early around 6. Insominac that I am, I got late while others guys were just lucky enough to catch the rail. Over checking with fellow folks, I moved over to Shivaji Nagar station hoping to catch them there. Though, it was little too optimistic to drive off my way through the morning chaos, park off my bike and still make it up for the train which in all probable possibilities was not going to stop or slow down. Still, sometimes you don’t really rack your cerebral zone and just go on. There, I was again stranded on railway station to catch next train on the block. I don’t know why I’d this affinity to travel through rail. Probably, a beautiful monsoon rail journey from Pune-Mumbai made the game! While in hurry, I caught up with a local to Pune station again. Back to Station 0! But I figured out then that Deccan Queen was on the lineup soon. So, there I was in Lonavala within next 45min. While normally other trains take around 75-80 min. There on, a short ride off SUV Safari and we were at the Base location of Shahpur.

Overall, Korigad’s a flat plateau once you’ve reached atop.The very thought of MTBing through those green pastures crossed my mind over a hundred times; next time sure its me & MTB! ;) The view of the fog unfolding a beautiful small pathway to the temple, with the lakes and green pastures all in the background, still captures my vivid photographic memory...but it's just to be experienced:) The fort opens up with a grand darwaja with the fort walls in bits and pieces adding up to the expanse beauty of fort. Walking along the periphery, we could site luxurious Amby Valley township, first of its kind in India. The row houses jotted within the green and surrounding lake waters, could easily trigger the ideal home dreams of many! By the way, my folks were none but the TFI fellows – full of energy & enthusiasm. Had a great time with you guys!

On the Mark, Go KORIGAD..

Where to go? Peth Shahpur (35 kms from Lonavala)

How to go? Train to Lonavala from Pune/M'bai then hire a car to Peth Shahpur or you may drive down

Trekking big deal? No its pretty Easy actually

What's in store?
- Lovely water bodies(viz. ponds) in the center of huge plateau region uphill
- Amazing fort lining in the front
- Breathtaking Views of Amby Valley
- Temples & little caves

Well, before rapping up, I want to dedicate a story to all my dear TFI friends...Here's what I have to say....

Once upon a time, there lived people who lived across the vast country space...

They lived like no other, fighting, hustling, bustling, busy making their knocking shot!

Then, came a wave, a wave to nurture not so lucky.

Lucky few they knew it was their Calling.

Clever they were to know that Call was what they were waiting for.

Stepped in with the power to change,

Lighted the Knowledge Powerhouses like never before,

For they, the Angels had come to rescue not so lucky ones.....

"-Dedicated to My Friends from Teach For India Foundation who are actively bringing about the change in Education in this country.

Guys- you’re doing great Work! Keep Going!!!

I RACE-d

2010-08-07T00:58:00.009+05:30

We run! Yes, We all run! We run towards umpteenth living and non-living goals & destinations! We run to beat life...

But few of us run trivially! Sounds trivial, right? Running which was once practiced as a purely food-hunting activity has now transformed into fully-fledged sport! Even human evolution inherits a lot to running (source). But when it comes to running daily or for that matter running long distances, it has to be trivial (read: materially trivial)-purpose being simply joy of running. By the way, what do you think why people run marathons, ultra runs..no not to slim down or remain fit but simply for the joy of it or may be to test their extremes. Mind you, it’s much beyond the world of holiday homes, BMWs, Bentley, Rolex watches, designer wears, lavish parties or premium club memberships that one usually run towards in such a high-paced, super-hungry, show-biz lifestyle!

Well, I did start running for all the usual fitness reasons. But, I hardly ever considered it that way. For last couple of months, I had been running quite consistently although last fortnight had been quite inconsistent. Though I plan to run Marathon in near future but that's not what keeps me on track! If I miss a day, I can see the difference! It's become a chore without which I become un-me! Sorry to sound so narcissistic!

By the way, last Sunday I-Race-d! I-RACE is a running event modelled by IIT-Powai folks, where your height, weight, age & gender are considered to evaluate the standard time you need to complete in. The model is being replicated in Mumbai, Pune and Portland(outside India). However complicated and complex it may sound, the base fact is that it makes you compete with your own set targets which indeed is highly interesting! Although it was just 10km run, it's always a great experience whenever you run early mornings and too under lovely drizzles!

The time was August, Monsoon was at its best! With water droplets pouring over, weather was really conducive & indeed there'd be no better call for running. The loop through the university ran ups and downs though with just a little gradient. However, when one runs, judgement magnifies! After running & analyzing for couple of months now, I do agree that running is very hard hitting sport plus it needs proper technique to run long distances. But I must admit, even under rains, water (read: water intake) do make the difference. A sip of water at around 5km mark, and there it triggered new lease of energy increasing my pace! Water indeed is a valuable commodity, makes a lot difference! I say, Keep Hydrated!! :)

Now, it’s always good to participate in such events but when you persuade someone novice to participate along with and they accomplish it comprehensively, it do feels great! And yes, it was indeed great to see a friend of mine completing 10k for the first time even when not feeling well. Hats off! By the way as far as stats go, I clocked 53 min 38 sec for 9.2km to be precise, well just around 50%(according to model) of my set target! May be this'll keep me running if triviality vanishes..;-)

Off to Mulshi - Joy of Cycling

2010-06-20T02:06:00.001+05:30

Went Off to Mulshi,a tourist destination near Pune. It's known for Mulshi Dam and lake that's been formed in the catchment areas of dam. The lush green forest area makes it an ideal visiting spot in monsoons. Riding along the lake-side was superrr! Highly Recommend people to venture out to Mulshi if you are positioned anywhere near Pune!

It being my First Cycle Ride this MONSOON-2010 and the fact that I did the whole route on my non-geared humble classic bike- MTB Hercules Hamilton, sure made this trip one of the best in recent times.

Will write in detail shortly!
MONSOONS are all here! Time to Celebrate! Festivity is ON!!!

Cheers, Ankur

Video Courtesy: Anand Saha

Wheat Village Getaway

2010-04-18T04:27:00.001+05:30

Lately, Village tourism's turning another fav among the weekend visits for urban dwellers. And no wonder, the best of the things you are offered at a village near your dear city, are by far much sweeter & cherished much longer! I’d been lucky enough to be a visitor at India’s one of the elitist A1 quality wheat producing village or rather town ‘Sehore’ last to last weekend...all thanks to my dear friend’s invitation to his hometown!

"Journeys are crafted the moment you step out and chart out a story!" All the incidences, memories, special moments, places and people add over to give a journey a unique identity. I believe every journey is 'unique' in itself! And if crafted the natural way i.e. nothing planned at outset, leaves you with a very distinct, fresh moments! Something similar occured with me...read on to know more!!

Well, I landed up in the village late evening. And next morning, we went hanging-around! Sehore is one of best Gehu(wheat) producing areas in India; remember you purchase Sehori Gehu if you happen to check! Apart from wheat, they have Soyabean for Kharif while wheat as Rabi crop. Since it was almost end of season; talking about April first week, crops been chopped down, it looked as if it was all gala time for all the farmers there.

To my surprise, the village boasts of new upcoming water resort and even a mall comprising of most upmarket products. After connecting with few locals, you realize how important this all is for them and they surely seem to be truly proud about the fact that their place has a good multiplex, water resort or a mall amongst their adjoining areas. Not to forget, I was in shock to find roads in state of MP to be so fine-tuned for the first time in history, I suppose! It was indeed great to see such a development especially in the state of central India where these kinds of developments are by far sparse and rare!

While we went around on a ride through the farmlands, my friend gave me insights about wheat lifecycle, at least we call it so :), encompassing all the procedures from wheat growing to cutting it off or be it canals for irrigation or about how farmer sells off its produce at the local Mandi nearby! All in all it's the major activity happening across the town that defines and influences major cultural and food habits of people there. It’s really heartening to see the poor farmers reaping out meager pennies while the middle man/brokers taking away the major margin, ultimately selling off wheat at pretty high premium to urban dwellers. Understanding the life-cycle of wheat village was indeed just the snapshot of what might be happening across millions of agro-oriented hamlets all throughout the country.

Also, visited the pond nearby and voila what a awesome place that was! The canals are crafted out for irrigation. Probably, it might also be a great birding place, though didn’t spot anything specific but chirping of some and water body made for perfect place, at least for weekend getaway kindas!

Getting off once in a while to slow ace village life and witnessing the development activities surely adds unique dimension to one’s outlook apart from obviously freshening up!

Sure, its Wheat shining India at Sehores !!! : )
Cheers to Sehore, the WHEAT VILLAGE!

Ignite Calling - Traveling the Different Way!

2010-03-20T02:08:00.037+05:30

Recently, I presentated at IGNITE Pune and the topic was none other but simply "Travelling the Different Way"!
And, I must tell you all, its such a wonderful feeling, speaking about the topic you are so passionate about!

Met loads of passionate people from varied fields be it medicine, IT, entrepreneurs, or a 10 grader ... speaking on topics still more varied and exotic such as tribes from Karnataka and their plights, about Groupism-how groups form etc, about meditation, or a simple story about the idea of togetherness or be it about call-centre exchange similar to stock exchange or about gaming consoles or glory years of Indian Hockey or about bikers' Lord-Lance Armstrong! The place was buzzing with so much enthusiasm and interesting people, indeed a super experience. Plus, it gave me a great opportunity to present before a large crowd after long time.

Traveling the Different Way

(check http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUaIQCV9SMA)

Thanks IGNITE for providing me such a platform to speak and share my thoughts!

My sincere thanks to the organizers ThoughtWorks who stepped in and provided the right infrastructure for such a fantastic world wide event -Ignite to be organized in Pune.
Last but not least thanks Pankaj without whose insistence, I wouldn't have really put in efforts to build up presentation!

Escapade to Auroville Marathon!

2010-03-01T03:19:00.043+05:30

Running through the greens,

Step after step onto the earth of red,

Wondered where I am!

With the fresh morning breeze greeting,

Early risers chirping, welcoming us,

Indeed wondered where I am!

With the Miles went on and on,

Glory was basking in with my dear Sun stepping in,

Unrelenting enthusiasm that hovered around,

Charged the atmosphere to new horizons....

Really wondered where I am!

As I went on & on,

Mind went void and empty,

Limbs acted like machine in the industry!

Wondered whether I am....

Well, there I was very much there at Auroville Marathon!

For those of you who are unaware of place, I’ll shower some factual bits onto that! Auroville is a Universal township near Pondicherry in the India, that was inaugurated on 28 th Feb’ 1968 based onto the vision of Sri Aurobindo & the Mother. It’s a place where people irrespective of nationalities, color, religion and all other possible diversities (as far as human imagination goes!) stay together. Auroville has received four times the endorsement of General Assembly of UNESCO; it boasts of its great following through all across US and Europe.

To start with, I attribute this tour to the great power of internet! Just a comment by Sri, avid trekker & biker from Hyderabad the other day and there, I checked about it. I had almost lost hope esp. for marathon as registrations were off by then, but still the curiosity to travel & visit Auroville was quite high...all thanks to my dear friend who had been there! Probably, that might have powered something and just a week before, everything set in, and there..I was packing off to tour to Auroville! Thanks Ram; had he not opted out, I would rather not be there to witness & participate such a event!

Well, the train journey lasted for 25 hrs, all thanks to Indian Railways for delaying 2hrs! Although the journey was long enough, it wasn’t that tiring though...wonders whether the enthusiasm was so captivating that ‘tire’ aspect of journey somehow didn’t click! After consulting couple of travellers, with discussions flying off regarding different routes and buses...ultimately set off to Pondicherry, probably through the shortest path! Journey to Pondicherry naah..its Puducherry now, was freshening with cool gentle evening breeze blowing off the window panes...all the way from Bay of Bengal! :) I must say, the feel of travelling along with locals in a local bus is indeed so nice! You don’t know their language; neither do you know the point to point location, with bare minimum comfort- that’s what makes it highly interesting! Well, how can I forget the wada sambar, one I had while bus break-over for dinner/snacks. The food stall had no choices but for just the wada sambar and that too just the jug full of sambar and wadas soaked into it. After having a plate, couldn’t resist having another one; apart was damn hungry by then! Enjoying the local cuisine totally the local way is truly wonder-local aspect of touring! :) Reached Auroville link road junction at 10.45 and what you see is hungry tigers..;)naah rickshawallahs waiting to get you to Auroville(which is about 10kms inside)! I started scouting for the place where I was supposed to go, though was clueless about any specific place as I had lost communication with Sri, who had reached there (poor cellphones had given up!). All the Dorm hunting went on for next 2 or so hrs in the dark of midnight, all through the jungles of sparsely habituated Auroville, before finally landing into Mitra guesthouse.

Scene of activities...Slept at 1 -> Hyb runners were up by 3.30 = so did I -> boarded the bus to start point at 4 -> at the site at 4.15 -> ....

Once reached at start point, I realized that registering won’t be possible, given to id proofs & all that rules & jazz! Well, the craze of running in Auroville had brought me all the way there. So, was there any doubt about me backing out...absolutely not...never for all the jazz...I simply ran!

The run started off pretty well. The atmosphere was ecstatic! The fresh coolness of early morning made me remember of my jogs that I used to have. Running through the environs of Jungle; all the pristine and the green made a soothing effect. Gradually, crowd spread over, and it’s basically just you, birds Above, trees Around! The silence makes you notice the welcoming spree of free-birds! It is so very relaxing and welcoming indeed! Be it red soil, tall trees, jungle, the birds chirping around with sun charting its journey through, while a cool blow now and then, isn’t that a perfect make for ambience? Now do you wonder why people come all the way from Bangalore, Hyderabad, even Delhi just to be part this? After a couple of 10-12 kms (depends person to person!), you could see the change happening in mental makeover...voila..all the voidness...! Along the path, met a couple of guys; met a German fella Locas, who had taken a break from studies, to do social service. So great & nice work indeed! Meanwhile, cheers and C’mons made rounds! With the sounds of trumpets and drums buzzing loudly then, one could make out, climax was just nearby... I sprinted for the last 200m like there was never after, before being presented the token of completion! The finale place was all buzzing with congratulations, huhaahss...Amazing! To my count, it took me around 2 and half hours to rap up 21kms, my first half marathon experience...not that bad I guess! : ) I must say, the organizers had arranged really well, be it energizers in the form of electrolytes, bananas etc or the route directions etc. I congratulate them sincerely for organising such a grand and fantastic event!

Just after the Marathon, couple of friends joined us along with and thereafter, began hanging around places within Auroville. Visited Matri mandir, a meditation center located in the centre of Auroville. It’s a must visit place for any traveller, specially known for its lotus-shaped outer architecture with its five petals signifying various qualities. And, to visit it from inside, one must place a request beforehand...remember if you visiting! With the hunger killing me inside then, had to had a jumbo lunch-A healthy meal at Visitor’s centre; loved the spinach Lasagne there...big time! Ended the day with the sunset at Auroville beach! Wow! What a day that was...a run in morning through greens and swim down under at beach at sunset...perfect end-to-end day! :P

Next day, I went over to pay my respects at Aurobindo Ashram, a very peaceful place in Pondy. With toe going sour..you know,marathon aftereffects;), it was getting too difficult to walk around! Just wandered around a little in surrounding areas, before packing off back to home!

Wow...a power packed journey! Superb half-marathon, visit to one of the finest townships in country, travelling and meeting new people ... all in all a great escapade!:-)

Trio Magic rides to Mahabaleshwar

2010-01-22T04:20:00.002+05:30

After Solo Mumbai ride, Mahabaleshwar was next on target! Mahableshwar ride was indeed a maha-ride in all sorts! Like I said before we commenced, it really doesn’t matter how the route might be or whatever time it takes, when we have ultra super biker Pankaj and Kaka biker alongwith, no matter whatever happens the ride is gonna be Rocking full of food and fun guaranteed !! And indeed, it was an epic ride of 2009, something I had really like to cherish about 09!

We started over as – Biker Pankaj, Trilok, Salis and me. Got a little late, all thanks to the chilling winters ;) So, after meeting up at Rajaram bridge at 6.20, we flagged off our journey! Crossed over the from sinhgad road flyover, joined over Pune-Mumbai bypass and eventually to b'lore highway.

Going on further, we had loads of fun elements lined up- be it fueling yourself(read: food breaks) every now and then, great encounter with Khambatki Ghat, puncture just after traversing Ghat, or be it a 4 wheeler running off one of our cycles resulting in front rim turnout, or be it fun joyous longride up giant Pasarni Ghat(17kms ascend)! Finally reached over Panchagani by 7 after a ordeal of events, that kept us absorbed all day long! Well, finding a budget place in the midst of holiday season (i.e. 26th Dec) wasnt any easy! But when bikers are on for anything, they get it right anytime. So, did we! After a amazing dinner at Gokul, a round of icecreams and strawberry creams to top up...

Next day started off for Mahabaleshwar, but to make it all interesting, cycle punctured yet again. This time around, fixed it all quickly. Cycling through those green vadiyas that too early chilling mornings was simply very earthly feeling.. too freshening indeed! Reached Venna lake and further into the market area. Made some purchases and yet again started of with more strawberries, creams, icecreams..and not to forget mapros, made it all more of a foodie ride...a distinct flavor to the ride! All thanks to Pankaj for adding such a distinct flavor:)

Well, here are some factual data one must* know...

- How to budge Khambatki Ghat? -take a tunnel route & ride against the one way traffic...deadly dark cycling though you save a major climb..simply speaking go to Maut ka tunnel, as quoted by Pankaj! :D

- What are the after-effects* of beer and milk?...a ultra super biker becomes a ultra super hiker!:P

- What takes 120 mins to climb, takes hardly 9 mins to descend! (@Pasarni Ghat) thts the magic of cycling!!

- What makes a small journey big? Have loads of food breaks...:D

- When do Cycle Punctures? when you are planning for a foodbreak..be it lunch or breakfast! wonder whether it understands when its master needs a break!:P

- Want a High? Go cycling with crazy hungry bikers...:)

(click over the route & icons in map for more information about tour incidences...)

Cycling Solo to Mumbai

2010-01-18T03:41:00.002+05:30

Well the plan was to go Goa Dec month end and Mumbai was never in the plan. But to set -in the rhythm, after cycling Sinhagad a week earlier, thought of continuing ahead and going-in to Mumbai! After checking with folks in my group, it was kinda difficult for anyone on such notice to join in, so thought of going on solo itself. Though I knew it had be a little crazy but given the last couple of months, work etc, something of a little more intensity was a must required, to give myself a kick & get going! Just packed up some eatables, first aid and puncture repair kit and here I was all ready to embark onto my first solo long distance cycling tour!

View Larger Map

Started up sharp at 5.20 on very the morning of 20th Dec. Riding continuously through NH4 crossing Pimpri Chinchwad, Nigdi, Dehu Road, Talegaon, Vadgaon...reached over Lonavala at around 8.30. Obviously, riding solo is not all the same! It's altogether different experience be it cycle related issues, sleepiness or simply zero mind state! Though the first couple of kms 30-40 kms is a difficult task especially once you are out of civilization but once the rhythm sets in, most of the things are taken care of!

The route : Pune to Lonavala can be gauged as easy to moderate in terms of cycling; not enough climbs though gets a little monotonous as it gets closer to Panvel! Took 3 hours of pretty easy continuous cycling to cover off around 65kms to Lonavala. A must deserved break was necessary there as I didn't had any breakfast up in the mornings! Feed myself some Medu wada sambar and chai up there at some hotel just next to the Neeta hotel. Met a hiking group- 360 degree adventure who were planning to go in for trekking nearby Lonavala. Had a couple of chats with those guys.

Moving ahead, I sped over the Khopoli Ghat slope. And that was the expressway patch! It That was indeed the highlight of the tour! ..not just becoz' of speeds but for the awful experience of riding alongwith trucks and buses! After crossing Khopoli, it's more so a flat ground and struggle to ride a mountain bike on asphalt under sun! Its indeed a test of patience! Cycling along the relatively much flat road renders nothing much, and that too riding alongwith the trucks and buses makes you sick of it. I touched the civilization of Mumbai by 11 or so...but going on was getting tougher as sun was baking me over more & more. A coconut water at Panvel soothed me up. Indeed it was amazing! The strange faces did sort of greet me, wondering what the crazy person is doing riding the bike on busy highways! Indeed it was a crazy getaway that too on MTB not meant for asphalt touring! Further the distance from Panvel to Vashi was jam packed full of traffic and flyovers. Ultimately, reached over Vashi, my destination for the Mumbai, by quarter to noon.

Definitely, that was good test of stamina, patience and cycling obviously! And this solo ride developed a new outlook towards cycling for me. May be cycling as a means to vacuum your mind! Also like to quote one of the lines of my dear friend , he says,"In solo cycling, body and mind feeds mutually; it is the body that feeds mind when that becomes tired!".

Solo cycling is an experience to cherish about, but it has its own sweet as well as sour tastes to it, its upto us to choose the taste & experiment with the cuisine! :P

Power packed December!

2010-01-02T19:25:00.001+05:30

What I believe is what we carry along with is no money, no people, no material but a loads of memories along the path of life to places, countries, forests for that matter any new horizons...So, if we carry these memories, why not build good ones of those, anyways they are getting manifested every moment ; either we chart out or allow it to get charted out :)

Well, the point here is that, I realized this at the very end of 09...December that I don't really have anything great, positive,significant or intense to remind me of this very year. So, charted out a rough plan...and just executed it! Well, the plan was...

1st Sunday: Pune Marathon (Great run of 10kms)

2nd Sunday: Solo cycling to Sinhagad (first solo though not far but was test of stamina definately!)

3rd Sunday: Solo cycling to Pune to Mumbai (Good experience..awesome slope after Khopoli at Xpressway!)

4nd Weekend: Cycling to Mahabaleshwar (Awesome ride indeed till date of late 2009 esp. becoz' of Great trio of Biker Pankaj, Trilok and myself)

Last 3 days: Paragliding Course at Kamshet (Got P1 certified...Nothing better than flying in AIR celebrating 31st!:)

Indeed it was pretty power packed closure to the year 2009! And today I stand and feel great about these moments may be just for a moment though! :)

Well...that's the way it goes, what we can do is just try to supersede the lower moments and churn out better moments, I guess! Its kinda Moment Management as they might say in corporates! ;)

Anyways, Adios!

Have A Great, Happening and Full of Energy and Enthusiasm packed year ahead!

Ankur

Pune Marathon 09' - Get a Life, Run through Streets!

2009-12-14T02:31:00.001+05:30

Lately, haven’t been blogging much. Sorry to keep guys waiting! Well, this time around after loads of work, decided to participate in Marathon, for the first time. Though running has always been my favourite but never practiced it seriously. Still just to give it a shot, I registered for 10kms slot and pulled off two friends along with.

Many of you might have heard about the whole mismanagement of the oldest marathon in the country-Pune marathon. Yes, I did observe all that be it registration procedures (no online registrations! :( ), or no direction boards, or be it the marathon jerseys (simply sick baniyans! :( ). I guess most of this was due to lack of marketing and thereby, no major sponsors, so obviously less of glam value! Well, keeping apart all these organizational mismanagement, the event was still well received. Kudos to the Pune citizens and Marathon runners and some corporate participants! :)

Getting back to the day of marathon, i.e the historic 6th of Dec’09, we started off from Alka talkies. Obviously, the great dignitaries(or whatever) including the bollywood star Neha Dhupia were present to inaugurate the event. We started off easy with the hordes of marathon enthusiasts - young kids to marathon veterans, all at same platform vying to complete the marathon. Indeed it was great and different experience to run along with the crowd all together. First and foremost this brings about, the health quotient of the city. I say this with no doubt that Pune has always been and is a budding healthy city with so many enthusiasts bringing in their energies to keep up with moral of the city.

The route was from Tilak road to Jawaharlal Nehru road, then over to MG road reaching Pune cantonment and to Hotel Taj through Bund garden road. Running continuously for 10kms at constant pace may seem like monotonous but the fact that you are running along with the so many enthusiasts of city while hordes of city dwellers cheering across is what makes the event so special apart from the joy of running! Still remember the last patch of 300m, when I sped up to ravishing speeds and what a wonder feeling it was! :) Took less than hour for 10kms, not that bad without practice!

At the end point, you could actually see the crowned faces with utter content. Awesome moment really! :) Couple of omelette makers could be spotted, doing their brisk business, feeding the hungry souls at the site. Well, some not so normal people-handicap person as well completed the whole route on his hand operated vehicle.Cheers to his passion!

No doubt, the energy and passion in the atmosphere was so infectious that makes you feel do more and more and more..... :)

Pune-Lonavala-Pune 160km cycle on run...

2009-07-04T01:55:00.001+05:30

Been to Lonavala countless number of times...!! But ever been to the the nearest possible hill-station to Pune by longest possible road?? Ever thought of going to such a place on man's first vehicle 'bicycle'!! Well, we the bunch of 9 guys planned for just that!!

It was actually going to be the great meet of PUNE and MUMBAI bikers at the central place i.e Lonavala. The day was 23rd of MAY,Saturday..all geared up to venture out and make the most of weekends, doesn't really matter whats the quotient of heat out there!! Anand, Pankaj, Pankaj p., Salis started off at 3.30 AM from Kharadi chowk. Later, Gagan and I joined over at University. And this time around, we'd the two new comers Irfan and Fakhree joining alongwith.

We had planned to take the countryside route crossing Pirangut, Gothawade, Kolvan, Pawananagar and then along picturesque Pawana lake to Lonavala. Though the route's full of climbs and descends, and longer unlike Old Mumbai-Pune highway, but it's worth going for. It's always an eye-soothing experience to witness the great countryside, when you totally freaked out traversing the treeless, polluted city urban roads daily that too in hot Indian Summers, isn't it?

Taking the route through Bhavdan, we rushed over in the morning.Wanted to chuck in as much as possible before sun basks with its intense glory!! It's really a pleasure riding early mornings, experiencing the cool breeze brushing you around! Reached Lavassa link road junction at around quarter to 7. Beyond that, its the total descend patch, enjoyed thoroughly going down, at the same time encouraging others to captivate on this patch. Further going on, we reached Pirangut. In the meanwhile, couple of Imli(tamarind) trees caught the eye of our great cyclist Pankaj, and then started our fun zone for a while. Going ahead, we missed out the right turn for Gothawade, which is the next hamlet enroute. We'd to do the overrun of about 3-4 kms to get back to the right route. But when you cycle, a missed route or a wrong route all seems to enchant you and nourish your experience everytime, so its always isn't bad enough to get lost. Rather whenever you get lost, you discover new horizons, opportunities and great places to check out !!:) To our respite..the mobile technology assisted us to communicate the message of route across the team. Wonders of Technology!!:) Reached Gothawade and chanced upon branching roads...on inquiring, found both the paths heading towards Lonavala. Took the one heading towards Pavana Dam i.e. left one. Riding easy and smooth, crossed a couple of gentle climbs and chucked up Kolvan.

On the route ahead, we found ourselves again with two choices- 2 roads- one short but steep while another long distance flat route to Lonavala. Challenging ourselves and finding our extremes is something we cyclists are so fond of !! So, no marks for guessing, yeahh..we took the shorter but the steeper route. Four of us were together by then, started our climb with all grit and determination to reach the top. Tree canopy all along the climb , playing hid-n-seek with the hot baking noon sun of summers, offered us much required comfort. After a continuous steep climb of around 3-5 kms, did we resort to fun-zone, a much deserved break pt..(attn Anand, Gagan-chor-police gamzzz...) Going ahead, just before Pawan Dam, we were all treated with a nice slope downwards. Slopes downwards are truly the rewards after every climb upwards for every mountain biker, isn't it ?? With Pawan dam in offset, had loads of foto-capturing, body-fueling(food) sessions...:)) It was 1000 hrs by then, and one can expect the ultimate glorious illuminating nature of our Sun God..:) "But when the need to cycle is unconditional and nourished by unmatching enthusiasm and passion, riding is no pain but all pain is contentment and happiness!!":))

Further reached Lonavala almost at noon. Grabbed up almost anything be with melons, chikkis etc..to suffice our hungry, thirsty souls. Reached Ramakrishana hotel, which really seems to be situated pretty far from where we entered Lonavala...its more coz' of civilizations and crowd that we feel distances are much longer than what they actually are!!:( Had sumptuous food at restaurant there. Well, here's where the historic moment was charted out...that was the great meet of Pune and Mumbai bikers. We were four Pune bikers and five Mumbai bikers creating historic cycle meet, for the first time, I guess !! Loads of discussions all in the web of cycling, cycles, cycling excursions etc..etc......kicked off! Well, in the meanwhile when meet was happening, our great biker Pankaj's(bike) paddle went off, so our bikers Pankaj and Neeraj were further delayed enroute. Well, other two novices left over back midway, anyways kudos to them for completely atleast that much for the first time!!:))

We chilled out a little around....coffee shops etc...Met Salis while starting up for return journey. The journey back Pune was all scripted along Old Mumbai-Pune highway We were supposed to cover around 70 kms of all flat, smooth, tar, polished road, easy, isn't it!!. Well, along this route, you and your bike are devoid of any kind of music tht u might have faced except for just few gradual climbs.:)) Heavy traffic along the road and non-green journey enroute renders not much content really!! :(( Going at average speeds of around 35+ kmph was really awesome though.:) Reached Pimpri-chinchwad are at around 7 or so.

ONE OF THOSE REALLY GREAT JOURNEY WHILE SETTING RECORD FOR MYSELF.....looking at odometer after reaching home...it says "160kms"....WOW I felt!! 160kms in 1 day Pune-Lonavala-Pune on cycle..thats why I believe, "its all about mental blocks, if you crack them, next time its all that very easy!!"

Journey back to roots...KOKAN on CYCLE !!

2009-02-02T05:01:00.000+05:30

Konkan is a region dotted with spectacular beaches, coconut grooves along the western side of Indian peninsula. Had heared a lot about Konkan but never been there before. Discovering Konkan for the first time that too on two power wheels(cycling) was like tasting the very fresh slice of nature

From Murud-Dighi to Hedvi, we visited places like Srivardhan, Hariheshwar, Dapoli, Kelshi, Guhagar, most of these along coastline. Moreover, fabulous konkani food and hospitable locals were the icing on the cake.......................................

Brief outline of the tour:

Day I (32kms):
Pune -(bus)- Murud ..(ferry).. Dighe - Diveagar - Srivardhan
Highlights: Diveagar temple, lost on the virgin beach(cycling on beach)!!

Day II (53kms):
Srivardhan - Harihareshwar - Bagmandle ..(ferry).. Veshvi - Kelshi
Highlights: Harihareshwar temple, Kelshi sanddunes/beach

Day III (60kms):
Kelshi - Anjarle - Dapoli - Ladghar - Kolthare
Highlights: Dapoli-highest point, good climbs to Dapoli, descends to Kolthare, Kolthare beach

Day IV (60kms):
Kolthare - Dabhol fort ..(ferry).. Dhopave - Enron Power plant(Veldur) - Guhagar - Velneshwar temple - Hedvi
Highlights: Velneshwar temple, power plant, Guhagar beach

Well, Konkan cuisines are one to die for, actually we had breakfasts(sometimes twice!), then lunch, some afternoon snacks again, dinner ofcourse. Had loads of fun having local cusine..actually then we anticipating whether to name the rally 'Konkan Food and Cycle rally'

Here comes the Food Facts:
- Soul curry (official welcome drink of Konkan!)-refreshing coconut made drink-Awesome!
- Phanasachi bhajji (jackfruit veggie) ok!
- Dadpe Pohe(pohe with coconut sprinklings) Gud!
- Kolhache Pohe(pohe with kolh(coconut milk) onto it-sweet in taste) Awesome!
- Modak (Sweet Dish off coconut- usually made as prasadam for Ganesha)Gud!
- Kokam sharbat (great drink made of kokam fruit!)Refreshing!

Apart from that, traditionally food is served on fresh bananna leaf. Its simply great to have it!
So, want to pack your bags, head over for a tour to Konkan?? :)

Leaving below is a short movie for you guys, Enjoy and do drop in your comments!

Snapshot of LADAKH-KASHMIR Tour

2008-08-27T16:24:00.000+05:30

For those of you, who want to feel my experience in a snap-shot format, here's tour for you.....hope you have N times JOY !!!:)

Biking Off LADAKH and KASHMIRs….

2008-08-25T23:47:00.001+05:30

Well to begin with, the very maniac to go Ladakh started off quite a while ago in April’08. Actually, I was just checking out some brochures for adventure tours for my cousin, and Ladakh just bounced upon me. Then, some spectacular nature photos and research about the place shifted the gears to plan in for such a trip. Checked out lot of friends to join me up, but u know, the very name of Kashmir is synonymous with militant activities, puts everyone off. Still a couple of them agreed but opted off atlast. Now that, I was completely crazy about it, I took the refuge of great power of internet and we were ready as a biking group having people from Ludhiana, Rajasthan. Well, the adventure started from there itself, going along with strangers in a completely no-organized way!!

(DISCLAIMER: Well, let me clarify to you all- this is an experience of a person who's pretty much a casual biker not into long-distance biking, probably might had done maximum of 50-60kms biking in a single day and that too on city-suburban fine tar/concrete roads over a poor 100cc bike!!! Well its me- a traveling and nature enthusiast onto my first biking expedition in the regions of Ladakh and Kashmir)

The journey started off on 6th July from Pune to Mumbai. Boarded Swaraj Express off for Ludhiana and after 26hrs of tiring journey did I reach. We started off for Manali the very same day (i.e. 8th July) at around 7 in the evening.We were 6 guys Adi, Kaku, Rahul, Karan from Punjab, Gajju from Jaipur and me from Pune (all met on internet) all set to create history and loads of memories for ourselves to cheer about. Well, I wasn’t having the bike then, so was riding pillion with one of the group mates, Karan. The lush green woods and streams across had a soothing effect over everyone. Night was getting darker and darker,the riding even as a pillion was really torturous. A small nap here and there and you know..you are done!! So, I had to have loads of cuppa of chai to keep myself alive in absolutely true sense!!!:) Actually that night itself, witnessed one of those bike problems and you know late night, remote places and no one really an expert mechanic, played around with nuts n bolts n tyres....to get bike back to running state.

Ultimately in morning around nine, got the view of Beas River and then it was assured that Manali’s just closeby. After a long journey, 9th of July was kept off for rest & some basic bike repairs. Now, here is where, I rented a bike-Pulsar, for riding pillion isn’t any joke. Actually, I was crazy about going to LADAKH and biking wasn’t on my mind that much but yeahh if you are riding your own bike and I’m talking about great Himalayas, it’s a absolutely high feeling!! After the whole lot of finale preparations, the actual journey to Himalayas was to begin. Everybody was geared with un-matching enthusiasm and great determination to go all the way up to KhardungLa, the highest motorable road of the World.

10/07/2008: MANALI – Marhi – ROHTANG TOP (3987m) – Koksar – Sissu – Gonda – Tandi – KEYLONG (Total: 115kms)

So, began the 1st day in Himalayan rally from Manali on 10th. Loaded up the luggage/bags onto our machines(bikes). Now loading-up luggage is a well to-do job…it need to sustain those pothole-ridden roads. I did notice bags having magnetic arrangement with other bikers, being loaded up over the petrol tank. So, I suggest all you dear bikers to purchase those kind of bags, it can be really worthy the biking trip for tying up bags every day is terrible time-consuming job yet u are worried about bag falling off every now n then while driving.

Well, the Rohtang Pass was the first pass en route the whole journey. The road en route Rohtang was really a test for bikers, not that much because of heights but due to its torrid roads and your first tryst with high altitude passes. Obviously, the ascent coupled up with terrible ‘kichad’(mud!) at places was a torture for biker as well as their bikes. To top it up, some streams across roads add up to our excitement and adventure. En route we had tea at Marhi, a very small town dotted with food stalls and dhabas. Usually, people going to Rohtang take break at Marhi. Ultimately, we reached Rohtang at an altitude of 3987m. It was about 2 in afternoon but at passes it gets more chilling as the clock ticks off noon

Actually, we didn’t find enough ice out there at Rohtang Top, though we could spot snow in patches here and there. Some of us including me faced some high altitude problems esp. headaches, courtesy- lack of oxygen. Slept there at food stall for a while, had some noodles, tea and then took Diamox, a tablet especially meant for AMS(Acute Mountain Sickness).Caution: Diamox being diuretic..u need to drink more water. While some of our group mates were having really good gala time there at Rohtang Top, I didn’t wish to be there for long. Ultimately we left from Rohtang downwards to our destination KEYLONG. Now, the roads conditions were pretty good as compared to earlier. Once I was down from Rohtang, I really felt great, total peace, was actually off heachaches. Now the route was Koksar-Sissu-Gonda-Tandi-Keylong. Well it was just Addi, Gajju n me there while others had rushed over ahead. We took a break near river bank and yeah…...thats River Chenab, a fast flowing Himalayan river. Had loads of fun and foto-shooting there. Moving ahead to Tandi and then to Keylong, it was about 6 by then. Then we’d to scout for our remaining partners there and mind you Keylong’s a pretty huge village as such with State Bank as well. It was really difficult to search for partners in such a situation.Luckily, a Bangalore biking group member whom we’d met at R-top, helped us locate our people. Had an easy sleep and food at the hotel there. Next day, we were supposed to go back to Tandi to fill our petrol tanks full.

11/07/2008: KEYLONG – Stingri – Jispa – Darcha – ZingZingBar – BARALACHALA PASS (16042ft) – BHARATPUR (approx. 90-92 kms)

Now begins the second day, all geared up to touch the destination SARCHU. Well, in the beginning we went back to Tandi to fill our petrol tanks for that’s the last fuel station, about 365 kms before next fuel station in Leh region.While on the way, we spotted a monastery, thereby went uphill & paid our respects to the very first monastery of trip, Shashur Monastry, Keylong. The moment we entered, the monks were just completed with their prayers and were having snacks. They called us and offered us tea and biscuits. That was so nice of them. Further, we had a talk with few of them regarding our tour. They told us that if we could make it to Hemis next day, probably we could participate in Hemis Annual festival. I’d heard lot about it- Dragon dances but wasn’t having specific knowledge about its time and duration and further our group was a biking enthusiast one so ppl weren’t that interested into such cultural stuff.

Well, we started off from Keylong bit late at around 1 in afternoon but distance to be covered was as well just around 115 kms. Now, our major destination to reach was Barlachala Pass (16042 ft.). The route was Keylong - Stingri - Jispa - Darcha - ZingZingBar - Baralachala.

En route we crossed an army camp at Patsio. Well, we were just getting used to army/military camps. Anyways person heading to J&K definitely need to get used these..isn't it?? It was getting really CHILLER as day progressed further. We reached a place called Bharatpur, very small village. Had some some soup and just planned to settle down there itself instead of going further 25 kms to Sarchu on the advice of some truck driver who suggested us that that place was is pretty cheap and good as compared to Sarchu. But ya, one of our partners Gajju man, a big time rusher had rushed all the way to Sarchu and took a tent there. It was really cold night and further sleeping at height was really terrible. Most of us had severe headaches but that’s how the trip goes on. The tent owner said many people returns from there without making it to Leh. hey...wat a pity for those guys!!! The tent owner-couple were really kind, made teas and maggis but the damn you really don’t feel like eating anything in that state of aches. They told that they were there just for 3-4 months and rest over time farming in their village. Well, imagine their lives, living in those hostile conditions at those good heights without much access to world as such. Well, that’s the struggle of mankind…for basics of ivelihood….Salutes their Great Spirits!!!

It was really wonderful experience chatting with those tent-owners and staying there in that huge tent. Btw,I suggest all you fellow travelers to stop over at Sarchu as its pretty much lower altitude than Bharatpur so probably you may not face high altitude problems there. We knew its going to be big journey next day. First of all reaching out to Sarchu and then touching over to Leh the same evening as per our plan. The total distance to be covered comes out to be around about 282 kms.

12/07/2008 : BHARATPUR – Sarchu – GATA LOOPS – NAKEELA (15547 ft) – LACHULANG LA (16616 ft) – Pang – MOORE PLAINS – TANGLANG LA (17582 ft) – Rumste – Gya – Lato – Upshi – Karu – Thiksey – Choglamsar – LEH (around 280 kms)

Well the 3rd Day begins-12/07/2008…and I tell u….I found the most wonderful scenic beauty on this very day. We started off at quarter past 6 in morning. Had to cover a long distance that day..so, no lousiness…just had to get off…but yeah it was damn difficult off from cosy blankets. Well things don’t go that easy man, motorbikes also do ask in for your due attention. And, on that freezing morning, what else can u expect, I was screwed up kickin my rented bike. Damn it was not working. Luckily, after couple of minutes it started off and we started off for the yet another chapter of our journey. The roads to Sarchu are mind-blowing

You would find all the nature’s wonderful creations in sand and clay of various textures and structures. Huge deep valleys on one side while gigantic mountains with sharp road turns on the other makes riding all the very interesting n thrilling. I was really enthused by all that and felt good that we covered that patch in the morning rather than evening. You know, I wouldn’t have been able to appreciate that nature and further capture it off that greatly under low lights, had I reached Sarchu a day before in late evenings. Ultimately we reached Sarchu. Loads of luxurious tents planted out there.

And, herds of sheep grazing over vast grasslands. Amazing site…country side…feel like to be there forever!! We met Gajju Bhai and had breakfast. While I had developed aversion for those fried up aloo parathas our ppl from Punjab were simply crazy abt it. We started off from there crossing…Nakeela, Lachulangla, Tanglangla Passes in succesion while Gata loops and Moore plains added the further more spice to our journey that day. Well after Sarchu, major attraction was GATA LOOPS. Actually, they are 21 road loops charted out within mountains

Well while covering loops I went on counting and to my surprise it wasn’t just getting over…all that was getting me into trance. Ultimately loops ended off and yes..we made it to Nakeela pass, which is at very descent 15547ft. Further bit ahead, we had tryst with Lachulangla @ 16616ft. While getting down from there, we had some really awesome views which are going to be with us for rest of our lives. There are some Palace kind of natural formations off sand and clay. That actually lends you speechless, looking at those magnificent gigantic structures that the nature or the HIGHNESS has offered to you. Well, it’s us who need to appreciate and preserve these wonders. HATS OFF to CREATOR of all of these. Now that was the time I was really really feeling as though I’m not on the earth…well off to very highness places!!!! Well the journey continues….I crossed a check-post and bid adieu to Himachal Pradesh and now I was into Jammu and Kashmir. Wow!!! Soon I reached PANG, a famous village for camping, at around 10. Had an amazing vegetable soup there. I was feeling great, well it’s the food that gets up upright every now n then. I suggest you travelers to have proper intake of food. While going across Manali-Leh, you’ll find lot of places offering Punjabi food esp. parathas at many places. Yeah, you do get really nice noodles, soups of various kinds like vegetable and momos, tsampas(local food) at many places. Well, actually you should be prepared to have noodles everyday till you reach Leh as thats somethg which is guaranteed available in all villages/campsites along the route. Personally I prefer taking soups and tea every now n then, it keeps me upright but a good breakfast is a must for the long day esp. while biking you don’t stop as such for lunch but just have breaks for noodles/soups/tea.

Then I was geared up for Moore Plains and obviously further to the world’s second highest pass TANGLANGLA. The Moore plains are just yet another facet of LADAKH. Long-Long huge plains, they get u, seriously. You do get into trance and especially if you driving alone. That was my case.

But the very beauty and variety this place offers is simply unmatching. A lot of road building was going on along that path, so had to take sandy routes, which was as well an interesting experience. Well soon I was on to TangLangLa and that wasn’t that usual for me as it was pouring then and driving up that height of 17582ft under those conditions for 2rd highest pass is definitely a test for driver. By then, I had covered a total of 364 kms from Manali in Himalayas. Well, that was not my destination, had to go much further. Descending down under rains in totally shivering state over those muddy watery roads was really terrible but you don’t have to think in those situations…just go on and touch the destination that’s how you work...:) Very soon then I made up to a village, where my gang was waiting for me. Had some tea and without any rest I rushed over with them. Here's where two guys from Patiala- Rubal and Abhinav alongwith their Enfield joined our group. It was still pouring hard and I was all soaked up as I took the liberty of not wearing any rainsuits. Now, I shut off my camera…well, that was the culprit that kept me behind…but thats me a nature enthusiast!!:) I came across yet another shade of purple and mauve colored mountains while nearing Leh. And Sindhu river joined us near Upshi. Many of you might be knowing that Sindhu(Indus) river is majorly into Pakistan before getting off into Arabian sea. Crossed a number of fringe villages- Gya, Lato, Upshi, Karu, Thiksey, Choglamsar before landing up in Leh. It was painstaking experience to find a place in Leh after the tiring journey. Well, got a pretty OK place that night. well that day, 2 of my team-mates fell prey to the rains, had an accident. But not that severe, so everything was going upright. Next day was Sunday…and rest day for us. Well a very deserving rest day…badly needed that!!

13/07/2008: Rest day in LEH and SHANTI STUPA Sightseeing

Well, had a great sleep and everything was going quite easy. Actually, that day was the last day of the Hemis Monastry Festival, which is considered to be really auspicious event. I really wanted to make it to it but lousiness of our people made it all late, and then I’d to scrap-up the plans to go Hemis. We changed over to better guest house near Women’s Alliance in Leh. It was really neat and spacious. Then, we headed over for lunch and I went over to have afternoon nap. Some of the people went over to Hemis while Gajju did some shopping. It was really rejuvenating after having very good sleep and food. Well, rest day actually reenergized me.

As I checked, day was nearing dusk, so quickly rushed over to Shanti Stupa to have amazing sunset views from there. Well, for all of you who don’t know Shanti Stupa is Japanese Monastery in Changspa area of Leh city. It’s a magnificent monastery built uniquely according to Japanese Architecture. The stories of Buddha’s life are very well scripted pictographically with the wonderful paintings. Being situated on hill-top, Shanti-stupa offers a whole-sole view of Leh city.Had really awesome sunset views from there.The platform at Shanti Stupa caters to loads of visitors whether Indians or foreigners. I met a group from Bangalore who were supposed to be participating in a marathon to be held in Leh in couple of days from then. Also, had a chat with a couple of tourists from Mumbai. U know Mumbai, me being a Pune-ite, it was good feeling talking to people of our region after long time. They’d been to Nubra Valley, so I took a bit of idea regarding road conditions and time required. They were really in praise of our biking act. Well, its actually nothing big deal!!! you know :) Actually you find lots of Mumbai and Maharashtrian tourists there in Ladakh. After lots of photo-shoots of Leh city and Shanti Stupa, I went ahead downwards. There I chanced upon a place so called as Tisseru Stupa, took the road to that place. Actually, it’s an archeological place (kind of a Khandar). Just hanged around that place for a while then it was the time to get back. Meanwhile, I checked out some market places to get the feel of the city...:) Returned to guest house just to know that guys who had been to Hemis just made it to packing or rapping ceremony ;) as such. The day ended with loads of rest and peace. Next day, lots of work was supposed to be carried out…from fetching permits from DC office to going off to Khardungla, and then further heading to Nubra Valley.

14/07/2008: LEH – KHARDUNG LA – Khardung – Khalsar - DISKIT (Nubra Valley Beyond Himalayas)

The day started on very easy note. The lousy mornings and then some shopping and money fetching from ATMs took a hell lot of time and before we knew, it was already 1 in afternoon after having lunch. Advice to all you dear visitors, if you are using ATM card, well get over to ATM center quite early in morning as it being a hotspot for tourists, military people as well as many locals, gets crowded as day progresses. Since, there’s just one State bank ATM and other one’s I guess J&K Bank, you can simply imagine the rush to these places.Started off quite late for KhardungLa, world’s highest motorable road. The road to KhardungLa was pretty OK…well the definition of OK changes over there after biking in those terrible areas ;) As you approach heights, snow covers and water draining off from it, creating muddy places…potholes all can be seen, felt and experienced by you and your bike…..come on that’s highest motorable road not that usual metro roads….has to offer you interesting paths…isn’t it!!

It was pretty pleasant when we reached Khardungla-Top at around 4. But just within a couple of minutes, we were all blessed by the snow fall there and then all the party began…..all dancing, singing, bhangras...having the best ever time at the highest motorable road in the world. Stayed for quite long at K-Top, purchased some souvenirs/T-shirts at Souvenir Shop there, had some noodles and tea there. We had all planned to go ahead to Nubra Valley but something went wrong…Adi n other guys cancelled the plans to move ahead to Nubras. Since I was determined for Nubras, I went ahead along with Gajju.

Crossed Khardung village around 5.30. Meet lot of army people and many of whom had served in Pune cantonment, felt really homely chatting with me. I got to know precise distances of places ahead from them. Gajju and I went ahead and were planning to stay at Hunder that night. Landscapes out in Nubra Valley are simply outstanding, actually I believe Nubras pretty much an integral part of Ladakh and everyone who bows down to Leh should pay their visits to this wonderful place. Now let me explain you, what’s all tht special out there. It's one of those places which offers great landscapes including huge Karakoram ranges to Deserts in Hunder region to really peaceful Gompas and yes hot water springs at Panamik. And to add to all that, its a paradise for all the bird watchers!!

Further that evening, journey continued, sun was setting in…moon basked out in glory and yes, there was yet another advent waiting in for me. That evening, Gajju the crazy driver zoomed off. It was getting quite dark. My rented bike barely lightened the road headlights being weak and unaligned made me drive very slowly only after judging the road ahead. I guess it was around 8.15 or so and there I bounced upon 2 roads and no demarcation/directions. Well how do I explain the degree of remoteness in that area….didn’t see a single vehicle whether its army truck or a safari after

around 5…damn dark with no villages in my sight. Well, at that so called junction itself I fell off…some petrol off as well…I just chanced upon particular route where I could site couple of lights down in the valley…thought may be that’s Disket. Still quite in doubt and just out in panic state, I luckily met a safari after 5-10 minutes, I simply asked that driver to get me to a place to sleep that night. He told me that I was on wrong road and he was going to Disket…so obviously I was to follow him. Well, that’s the state; I had been through, at around 8.30 in night - remote areas - alone biking - lost the path…and that time you require no food or people either, just an abode to rest till sun basks in. I definitely treasure those moments now… And yes to all you dear travelers, the people in Ladakh region are really helpful, trust them, they aren’t the same corrupted lot from our metros…really good people with innocent clean minds!!! Driving over, I reached the guest house in Disket at around 9. Well the day ended with loads of interesting experiences.

15/07/2008: DISKIT – Hunder – Diskit – Khalsar – Khardung – Khardungla – LEH

Having learn't my lesson last day, I started up early...as in any case… it gets really torturing to drive my vehicle with headlights in dark.Gajju had already rushed off from there.So, I started off alone early at 6.30, went all the way to Hunder. Yes, this was one of those reasons to be in Nubras. Well without adding more to your curiosity levels, I tell you, it’s the place where you find sand dunes…yeah that’s the LADAKH desert.

It’s surrounded by huge mountain ranges with snow peaks from all around. If you might have forgotten, this place is just 60 odd kms from K-Top, highest motorable road with all snow around. That’s Ladakh for you!! You find it all from huge gigantic mountain ranges, deep valleys to greens plains to high altitude lakes. Well that’s what attracts you to this place with a variety of geographical and physiological features. To add to it, it also do have semi-arctic climatic conditions in winters, temperatures go upto -30 C. Salute to all Ladakhis…they strive really hard to make living and existence in such a hostile place.

So, the journey continues, I checked out the Hunder region, and met a group from Bangalore most of them from IT background. I joined those guys And it was pretty smooth then. Well…how can I forget the mouth-watering Dosas and Idlis there at army canteen in Hunder. Well, getting South-Indian food in the north-most of India was simply great!!! We moved over from there to reach the check-post beyond which visitors aren’t allowed. Ohh..Just 90kms short from India-China border. Then on we went to have camel safari in desert.Those camels with two humps are called Bactrian camels . Watching those snow clad mountain peaks and green patches along with the magnificent sand-dunes, while on camel safari was absolutely awesome. Where do you find all these at the same place? It’s absolutely a God’s wonder, rather a gift to mankind, isn’t it???

Further, on the back journey visited Disket Monastery. Had beautiful views of green farms/ plains from atop the Gompa. Having fun and food at places, we started off for K-top.I got an opportunity to meet Ladakhi singer(forgot the name though!!) along the way at one of those dhabas across the road. It was absolutely great to chat with him, he used to travel Khardungla pretty much on regular basis on his moped.Wow, I thought!! Well, this time around the atmosphere was really pleasant but we had a convoy of 50-60 army trucks ahead of us. Crossing them while ascending and water running off those muddy roads was by then quite usual but still thrilling experience.Well, we overtook the whole convoy, irritating the truck drivers by popping off in their rear view mirror often.Alas, we reached the K-Top. But started off quickly under the fear that convoy will pass over ahead of us. Just rushed over to Leh. I moved in with those guys in the Druk guest house. Had a very peaceful evening and also checked out some travel agents for Pangong Tso lake trip. Dear Travellers, I’d like to tell you, it’s a very novel concept of sharing safari/taxi in Leh. You’ll find lots of travel agents near State bank ATM with their boards put up outside for finding partners for sharing safari to places like Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri Lakes, Lamayuru, Nubra valley. So, if you are solo traveler…fret not…you’ll find lots of sharing safari options which will be quite economical as well.

16/07/2008: LEH – Hemis – Thiksey – Shey Palace – Stok Palace – Sindhu Ghat – LEH

This day, I planned off to cover all monastries and museums around Leh. Well, my dear Bangalore partners went ahead to Kargil. The guest house owner asked me to take one of his foreign customers alongwith. Well, it’s a huge vacation for foreigners here in Ladakh. Most of them spend time with their pals when switching from one job to another. Around about 90% of tourists in Leh are foreigners. Many of them stay for month or so…relaxing, mediating, traveling….well a wonderful vacation in Indian currency!!

I started off for Hemis Monastry, the biggest in the Ladakh region about 45 kms from Leh. It's construction dates back to 16th century and still you can see for yourself the glory of this place. Hemis festival is considered to be one of the biggest festivals in Ladakh. So, whoever plans to travel Ladakh in the period of June-July, do plan in sync with the Hemis festival. It’s more of a cultural event with dragon dances and monks draped in colorful robes dancing as well. Since it’s the place where one can taste the slice of culture of this region, this festival is a big hit with tourists. Further, while coming back, I visited Thiksey and then Shey Palace. Further on, went to Stok Palace, a place where descendents of Nymgyal Dyansty used to stay. Now it’s converted into museum where ornaments, utensils of dynasty are showcased. Lots of Buddhist paintings are as well displayed. I also chanced upon to see the conventional Ladakhi wine fermentor made of Yak’s skin.

From there on, I went to Sindhu Ghat, place from where Sindhu river is considered to be originating. Returning from day’s tour, I reached Leh, had some food(that’s just some cookies from Geman Bakery!!) and then checked out market place. Well, I had met my groupmates that day, and we had planned to make a move to Kargil and further to Baltal next day. So, that was the last day in Leh, and I started over for last minute shopping that evening. Collected some T-shirts, braclet-necklace of stones for sister and some audio CD’s of Buddhist/Tibetan/Ladakhi songs. Well, I suggest dear travelers, who possess a musical ear to purchase “Om Mani Ratnam” CD that’s very peaceful bhajan, you can start the your day with. Moment I reached back, I was hell hungry, just survived on some Germany bakery cookies all day long, so just requested my guest house owner for a veg noodle soup, which was the only thing available! Ultimately, at peace day ended in packing up. Next day was a huge day and we were supposed to cover around about 350kms.

17/07/2008: LEH – Lamayuru – FOTULA Pass – Kargil – Drass – ZOJILA Pass – BALTAL (Base camp for Amarnath cave Yatra)

(225 (Leh-Kargil) + 125 (Kargil-Baltal) = 350kms)

The day started off very early. Well, whatever I might say about that rented bike, it didn’t broke down ever in the trip. Well, credit should also go to the rider…isn’t it?? ;) Started off early, along the way came across Magnetic Hill. Now this is a place whether it’s said to be experiencing some magnetic effects/pull. Well, I didn’t experience any pull onto my vehicle while driving but who knows whether it’s for real or not…anyways doesn’t matter!! Further ahead we went all the way to Patter Sahib Gurudwara. Actually there’s a story behind the establishment of Gurudwara in the Land of Lamas. Later on Buddhists wanted to have a monastery built up there, then army took the area under its control and now the Gurudwara is taken care by Indian army. Had a very peaceful time there.

Then on we started moving for Kargil. In the meanwhile, we came across Link roads to Alchi, Likir Monasteries.

Further, came across Lamayuru and I totally agree that this is a Moonland. While driving through this region, you feel as though you are actually moving across Moonscapes. Really Awesome Mountain ranges!! Well, after crossing the Lamayuru region, yet another pass was waiting in for us. Yeah, that’s Fotula Pass (13479ft), highest Pass along Leh-Srinagar route. That was definitely a piece of cake by then. The road conditions there were pretty much dusty and road works were going on at many places. I’ve to admit that J&K government do maintain good roads inspite of high altitudes, snow and melted water washing off roads every now n then. But yes the same can’t be said about HP roads, those are simply horrible.

Going ahead, we had to reach Baltal as day’s final destination. In the meantime, found a good dhaba, had food and I went ahead. Adi was already quite ahead, while others were having food. That day, sleep trauma struck me. Well, after having a good food and then driving under bright sun, I was feeling terribly sleepy. Still I was going on, but after a particular limit it just very difficult to carry on and yes I treasure my life…don’t wana loose it that easily…hehe. Just took a rest in some village for time being. Probably, that short nap made the difference, I was again on my feet to shoot over to our destination. Reached Kargil at around 5 or so. Frankly speaking, after traveling so much I can tell you Kargil offers you nil as far as a clean pleasing town is concerned or for that matter even nature is concerned. But yeah, that place has very strategic importance. We did pay our respects to Drass War Memorial built as a memory for all those ‘shahid’ in Kargil War. Actually thinking, it’s only because of our great warriors that we were driving so easy in that one-time terror-infested area. A Salute to all the great soldiers across the border!!! We could view the tiger hill far off from the road. The road beyond Kargil is army protected. You can spot army personnel every 300-500 odd meters. At first, it’s quite shocking. “Enemy is watching you, be careful” that’s what is explicitly mentioned over boards across roads. After reading that, assimilating and absorbing it into your brains, you can feel the intensity of danger in those areas.

Well, our target for the day was still far fetched. It was getting dark and we had to cross yet another pass Zojila Pass. The roads at the Zojila were torture and that too driving under lights, it was really getting under my nerves. Ultimately at around 9 reached Baltal, base camp for Amarnath Yatra. We’d to pass through lots of army check-ups there before finally getting into that village. There’s too much security there. All our luggages were X-ray scanned, and finally we found peace after traveling 350kms that day.

18/07/2008: BALTAL – Sonmarg – SRINAGAR (100kms)

That day, everyone was in utter state of confusion as to whether we should climb atop Amarnath top. After the news that Shivling was quite short or probably in totally melted form, Adi, Me, Rubal and Abhinav planned to start over for Srinagar, while other 3 went over for Amarnath. Well, Srinagar is just 100 kms from that place. With lot of fun and photography, we reached Srinagar

The road i.e. NH1 is awesome, it’s really a pleasure to drive in the lush green Kashmir Valley. The total road from Kargil to Srinagar is patrolled 24/7. Well, guys it’s only because of these safe hands that we are so safe and secure. I’ll recall a incidence that occurred while going to Srinagar. We’d just halted for some photo-shoots and just within a couple of minutes we four found overselves all surrounded by 15 odd army people. Actually, two jeeps came out of no where suddenly and in quirk of second all soldiers down surrounding us and then the captain or commander made the entry. Well, this all might sound quite filmy to u guys but frankly speaking this all laid us in a shocking state for a moment or so. Then, we had to recite the whole story of our journey to army men. After reaching Srinagar, it’s a totally different kind of feeling. With the knowledge regarding recent happenings in Srinagar, there was always a suspicion whenever dealing with any person there. Day ended with a warm visit to Nishat Garden. Nishat is the biggest of all Mughal Gardens in Srinagar. Lately, we struck a great deal with a houseboat owner and booked house-boat for 2 nights. It was a wonderful stay at House-boat amidst Dal Lake.

19/07/2008: SRINAGAR Sightseeing

Well, this day can be considered to be rest cum sightseeing day. Visited Shankaracharya Mandir in the morning. Well, security and Srinagar are so synonymous that you can’t separate either from other. It is there wherever you go. By that time, we were also quite used to see army-military personnel all around. From there on, we went over to Nehru Botanical Garden, Cheshmashahi Garden.

For those of you, who don’t know, Chesmashahi is the place from where drinking water used to be shipped all the way to Delhi for Pt. Nehru. All these Mughal gardens are so well planned that the streams within the gardens are naturally getting down to Dal Lake. That’s the reason most of the gardens are facing Dal Lake. Being in Srinagar, and that too on bikes meant that we were to be checked at every junction and asked regarding all the required documents et al’. Yeah…being in Kashmir, you shouldn’t miss out on Kawa,

herbal tea, made of almonds etc…very very freshening!!

20/07/2008: SRINAGAR – Udhampur (NH 1A) – Mansar – Samba – Kathua – PATHANKOT (NH 1A) (330 kms)

Big huge day..actually we had planned to reach Ludhiana that day itself. But the tour wasn’t over as yet. And as you might have noticed our bikes were quite in peace till now but not any more. After a couple of kilometers, Adi’s Royal Enfield broke down. The clutch wire was broken. Luckily found a good mechanic across the road. We were well equipped, had a new clutch wire. So didn’t have any problem or else would have to go Srinagar to fetch. So, all you bikers never ever be slack in toolkit preparations for you might get a mechanic along the route but no spare parts. Further, the journey went on smoothly before I realized that my rear tyre was puncture. Just pumped in air for time being to manage till we reached a mechanic. We did reach a mechanic but I guess that person never ever had worked over bikes before. Then all the drama began. That mechanic or whoever, took a hell of time for all the puncture repairing. Adi was all but lost to his temper..anger n irritation was all on high. Well, all this bike pampering went over for around 2 hrs in all.

So, it’s always better to have a buffer time while planning your drive. It started pouring heavily. Geared up with all rain-suits we were totally on for the journey. But yeah….cleaning helmet visors and specs becomes quite irritating job while driving under rains. NH-1A is a very busy highway unlike those remote roads of Nubra Valley. Well here, overtaking becomes a regular chore to by-pass traffic.We passed over the famous Jawahar Tunnel, one of those longest tunnels in Asia. To By-pass Jammu, we took the route via Mansar to Samba to join back to the highway. Travelling over and over we chucked up around 330 kms to Pathankot by around 8.30 in the evening. Had food then planned to stay there itself rather than driving till late night.

21/07/2008: PATHANKOT – Jalandhar – Ludhiana – AMBALA (284 kms)

This day went over smoothly. I started off early but stuck due to some problems. Ultimately headed for Ludhiana at 11 in morning. Driving over NH 1 is a breeze. Reached Jalandhar and further over to Ludhiana. Had to collect some material from Adi, so called him to nearby place. But due to heavy rains there, roads of Ludhiana seemed to be yet another ponds. Collected stuff from Adi, and straight went off to Ambala. Reached Ambala and handed over bike to transport person, who transported the bike to Manali. Boarded the Jhelum back home.

This marks the end of my glorious journey to heaven on the earth whether Ladakh or Kashmir. Now, that I'm penning down my experiences, I can feel the intensity of all what I underwent n experienced...Well, the journey might have ended in reality but I'm still very much lost in the beauty and peace of LADAKH and the lush green treasures of Kashmir Valley.

Last but not the least I'd esp. like to thank Audi, a friend of mine who assisted and supported me for my preparations beforehand.And further I'm indebted to all those involved in my journey consciously or unconsciously for being so kind and helpful thereby making this tour one of my most treasured experiences of my LIFE....

And big thanks to all of you, who invested your precious time reading my travelogue. please do post in your reviews & feedbacks.

Cheers,

Ankur

Bombay to Poona - journey with difference !!

2008-01-24T16:15:00.000+05:30

Hey everybody, I’d like to share one of my experiences onboard train. Many of you might feel nothing new about it. But I'd like you to figure out and see for urself some matters over the subsequent paras...hope u njoy readin...do comment over watever u feel like....carry on....

So, it all began such that I had to come down to Pune from Mumbai and was short of cash.Instead of boarding a lavish Volvo or cab or rather even our poor ST, I opted for a train general ‘Dabba’.

To start with, took a local, Mumbai’s true lifeline, all the way to Dadar. I somehow squeezed myself at the corner of the entrance of compartment, leaving it to others to do the action. Ya, I mean ‘action’..a complete package of drama and adventure. People hanging off train with barely a hand clinked up somewhere…quite similar to a dried up leaf barely attached to bark. I wonder whether that’s probably the cheapest way to feel gliding off the air. And to add to all that, there was a great background ‘music’... of our fellow men n women shouting n quarrelling...venting out all their frustrations...probably they had find no other place but for this local..God knows why or for wat reasons? But one thing is sure, ‘local’ commuters possesses an amazing stock of energy n they expend it pile by pile for all such stuff.Ultimately, gasping and happing, I reached Dadar.

Then purchased the ticket of Sayadhri Express. Guess wat..it costs meagre Rs.54 Wow..Now thts somethg really not pinching my pocket, isn’t it? I waited there, purchased newspaper, waiting in to see the face of train..Ultimately, sharp @ 6, train arrived...boarded the General Dabba( mean compartment) @ Dadar. Now the whole fun began..much to my anticipation there wasn’t enough space..but I‘d thought may be afterwards..somehow every1 will be adjusted.But the compartment was exploding out of people. Hardly had any space to stand. Mind you, that was no local, a journey of total of three n half hrs. Standing isn’t that easy! Further to add to it..every now n then some or the other wanted to get off to loo...disrupting all the 'peace' of standing ppl..I wonder whether all that activity happens a bit more often in trains!!! I saw an upper berth full of luggage n single person sitting there...I somehow convinced that person n got a place...it seemed as if all that luggage belonged to some big fat lady below on the lower berth..n other humans seemed to be just worthless n un-living..No one even questioned regarding that..Poor ppl..get up ask in for ur rights !!!

Now tht I was seated, observing ppl from that upper berth was quite a interesting experience. A person, barely had place to stand, was enjoying reading Autocar magz.I guess, he might have had completed reading it all..man thts wht v call passion..no matter wat state u r in!!! Now tht I had DNA newspaper, I read some beautiful articles, while still observing the very state of condition within compartment. Hey, I could see some shoes being showcased over the fans...now thts really amazing way to display!!! Oh feel pity over poor guys...seriously there’s terribly low space in train..not even for shoes...wat could they do doing then, being on upper berth. I could spot some people sleeping as usual, some had a gala time listening to music while some were quarrelling, again may b quite usual for them, I guess.

Along the way, train halted at Karjat,a small town.And now I know all u wada-pav lovers feeling hungry...rite?? Ya, I did eat my fav wada-pav...all thanks to tht uncle who was standing @ nearby window...Now one of those "height of experiences"...found a boy who seemed to be quite comfortable(i guess) over the edge of compartment's door...now thts surely height of getting seated!! I could draw a parallel between tht n flyovers in our metros. Hey, wat to do...populations exploding like nothing before..migrations happening...infrastructures perennially low...so are our cars n buildings booming up....v don’t have space either on roads or within trains...Oh!!!thts the state!!!

Now as Pune was nearing by...ppl made every effort to chk the station names which crossed meanwhile...by then everybody kind of knew each other...lookin at each other for long. Finally I dropped out at shivaji nagar stn n jogged all the way to my place...u know my regular workout tht day :)...

More than ‘50 Bucks journey’, I was enthused by all that drama n action...I guess that was probably one of the cheapest n ‘interesting’ journeys from Bombay to Poona..