tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33961349204983968752024-03-13T06:31:36.327+05:30Expressing MyselfSundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.comBlogger140125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-30429855157156624432023-01-12T20:29:00.004+05:302023-01-12T20:32:52.695+05:30A pleasant visit to Mettur Dam<p><span style="font-size: large;">Last weekend, I decided to go visit <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mettur_Dam">Mettur Dam</a>. I want to visit a new place every month this year. This ticks of the entry for January.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Bus travel took about two hours in total from my room. The journey was mostly on state highways, so plenty of towns along the way. Lighter traffic compared to national highways, and I spent the time gazing outside the windows (didn't have to bring out my phone to read a book). There were many impressive infrastructure buildings around the outskirts of Mettur. And amazing views of the Cauvery river along the way.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKi0d2E5IV8Kin77FGTVtVqvPttKua_QCgqVxh_3Ln41Vk0kkCAc3ye0vJVmvaRUWy9jCd8zEQCfFC0C1ku0u9fSVUFUwzT6l2lFtPNFH_Hi8WKVI_ZBAMPapCJa04IqeWuIZjgnuK8FO2vvzzk6lOCqr9uP7Mor7gyY5Fubdm9acHiItysNv5GPU8kw/s2080/bridge_on_the_way.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKi0d2E5IV8Kin77FGTVtVqvPttKua_QCgqVxh_3Ln41Vk0kkCAc3ye0vJVmvaRUWy9jCd8zEQCfFC0C1ku0u9fSVUFUwzT6l2lFtPNFH_Hi8WKVI_ZBAMPapCJa04IqeWuIZjgnuK8FO2vvzzk6lOCqr9uP7Mor7gyY5Fubdm9acHiItysNv5GPU8kw/w400-h300/bridge_on_the_way.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bridge on the way to Mettur Bus Stand<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">After a bit of confusion at the Mettur bus stand, I got the direction right and walked about a kilometer to reach the park at the base of the dam. Ticket entry was Rs 5. Outside the gate, plenty of hawkers were selling snacks as well as toys for kids. Plenty of fish stalls nearby as well.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">After a bit of walk to the main gate (where tickets were checked), I got my first surprise. I didn't know I'd be crossing a bridge overlooking the water flowing out from the dam!</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-QQrYa7CMwSa6mzVr2Rk7xYUSZKVlSXF4iMLuGJIRdAIHC5-nUWlVsE1G7lrJEmNNBiUrUd02hcOEXOtDdQWXGThSAVxoOBaLa0IULj1Is2sNMgq_WZ6y4ujorzR7preK0cv9ups9EgsgOFUlKPnxCLpt0eUiJnFQr9Ixlt5sglMa0EWqRHYTjR-uJA/s2080/view_from_outside_dam1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-QQrYa7CMwSa6mzVr2Rk7xYUSZKVlSXF4iMLuGJIRdAIHC5-nUWlVsE1G7lrJEmNNBiUrUd02hcOEXOtDdQWXGThSAVxoOBaLa0IULj1Is2sNMgq_WZ6y4ujorzR7preK0cv9ups9EgsgOFUlKPnxCLpt0eUiJnFQr9Ixlt5sglMa0EWqRHYTjR-uJA/w400-h300/view_from_outside_dam1.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">View of dam walls after park entry gate</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXL9JO5kEQmyIT9CdfQiMmqUCzVuw-NbBz23rVIaff7bQyr-EhAjhAsi1rKV6pL08Be1Cwc8AckuQFgkhTe3iFmVtp_xHsxCuAf2VBGnkOiZLN4DL-jvm4ipV79XrfLkjAS9CG3Pc0G3cb6v1ghSsGEAqV0sEOq4OUW_D1NgBkGmdcMhJQnakOv-Q8Bw/s2080/view_from_outside_dam2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXL9JO5kEQmyIT9CdfQiMmqUCzVuw-NbBz23rVIaff7bQyr-EhAjhAsi1rKV6pL08Be1Cwc8AckuQFgkhTe3iFmVtp_xHsxCuAf2VBGnkOiZLN4DL-jvm4ipV79XrfLkjAS9CG3Pc0G3cb6v1ghSsGEAqV0sEOq4OUW_D1NgBkGmdcMhJQnakOv-Q8Bw/w400-h300/view_from_outside_dam2.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">View of dam walls after park entry gate</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">There wasn't much of a crowd lingering. I took a few snaps, enjoyed watching fishes and finally got to the park. The dam walls took over one end of the horizon.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmr7_s6d2QWgCiozSxYGv1oeCoMXn47YerYqoYZ3Pw_ftCS1WtS9ShehrXYg-Wqr5OxGJQ4mFVXNK_YomEldTPPpXjZrKPpXfNbAiLr-s9PNri0K1z-LoH2CE5NLnL2FVSeogih3U3KX7hGvF-uko1-TutyC8ZHTHPWcIGCeeV7xK8IM7RQSLFnZRgw/s2080/park_and_dam.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmr7_s6d2QWgCiozSxYGv1oeCoMXn47YerYqoYZ3Pw_ftCS1WtS9ShehrXYg-Wqr5OxGJQ4mFVXNK_YomEldTPPpXjZrKPpXfNbAiLr-s9PNri0K1z-LoH2CE5NLnL2FVSeogih3U3KX7hGvF-uko1-TutyC8ZHTHPWcIGCeeV7xK8IM7RQSLFnZRgw/w400-h300/park_and_dam.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">View from just inside the park<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-size: large;">Thanks to the large and sprawling area, the park didn't feel crowded. It was well maintained too. I randomly took a direction and went exploring. There was a path that took you to yet another bridge over the dam water. This one was pretty narrow though. Again I took a few pics before coming back to the park.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjDVTqe5hFyHtdbpmnaSdosysX883olUqfB-is24qBSufqCZfdEbAX-4soN9XtwDGxXB97eAba1xJ0c4KeHbRDdAwC1Sq-LjUrTyiqN226-PQdgd-nwA5gUy52iSFfRaXZ-WV_ZVn2nFvYcvWFoo-SuHrDGx6QMbHa-46Wuxyc5_kNrBBYOlE9HVWtug/s2080/another_view_of_the_park.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjDVTqe5hFyHtdbpmnaSdosysX883olUqfB-is24qBSufqCZfdEbAX-4soN9XtwDGxXB97eAba1xJ0c4KeHbRDdAwC1Sq-LjUrTyiqN226-PQdgd-nwA5gUy52iSFfRaXZ-WV_ZVn2nFvYcvWFoo-SuHrDGx6QMbHa-46Wuxyc5_kNrBBYOlE9HVWtug/w400-h300/another_view_of_the_park.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">View of the park from one end<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /> </span><p><span style="font-size: large;">After going around the outer paths, I took the inner one that was surrounded by trees - plenty of mango trees (which were extra pretty thanks to the blooming season). There were lot of resting areas and water taps too. I could see many families lugging along lunches. <br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-LgdOG5wJyDxUgJD7C1Gr6Nu4Zm8xR6SAVneq_Cj7qnb4tNmKJV_41FXguX_xphIZ-oVhmIeFuPiBg0wdYb81thohpvWIeaiqe5IQR1duBYP5qJB6RR-bvN-D6VW4ydqRc7fEf_ZB56Ab_UpJeFtmDh1RB20ANxGTpiYtgN0Dx7ati1y-2rL1imJlcg/s2080/interesting_tree.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-LgdOG5wJyDxUgJD7C1Gr6Nu4Zm8xR6SAVneq_Cj7qnb4tNmKJV_41FXguX_xphIZ-oVhmIeFuPiBg0wdYb81thohpvWIeaiqe5IQR1duBYP5qJB6RR-bvN-D6VW4ydqRc7fEf_ZB56Ab_UpJeFtmDh1RB20ANxGTpiYtgN0Dx7ati1y-2rL1imJlcg/w400-h300/interesting_tree.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Interesting tree</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Of course, parks need playing area for kids. And this one had enough to spare for adults too. I spent a few minutes on the swing :D</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmK9fH_zOdfVJHMbWcgNlFhu_VEKW6WXO1elGcZX-e3JhGt2QMyLLKf4CXFfsXggvcjzNX08zh1vq7_57iof2SmZwD82SUyiY-gedOKde_0uZMUYa-DXJ6XYUPICC4GkiFnKs95mfnRWIhOHi9Dvu4tKTHE_ll63PmZjoD6ddUcAN3DzcUJpHw5f3Psw/s2080/amazing_trees.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmK9fH_zOdfVJHMbWcgNlFhu_VEKW6WXO1elGcZX-e3JhGt2QMyLLKf4CXFfsXggvcjzNX08zh1vq7_57iof2SmZwD82SUyiY-gedOKde_0uZMUYa-DXJ6XYUPICC4GkiFnKs95mfnRWIhOHi9Dvu4tKTHE_ll63PmZjoD6ddUcAN3DzcUJpHw5f3Psw/w400-h300/amazing_trees.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Impressive trees</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Another attraction were the enclosed structures housing birds and snakes. And when I reached the other end of the park, I got to see this beauty too:<br /><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkoFilpBNH34Xh4Hnc10mKWGl70KdOMN0n6zZU2uymVX-rNIFMuQNBDPKA9V3aEVuYEodnJSD5R_-ujbb-65cxx_vYNexD7w9JstZP8SIqEP3i3pRCMP7mjwHZT1D2W55Nfg0JvIxGf06ydDF_Piu9GE3HROJDz3aiWDAbm85bQceD1AjX6t4zcRl5qA/s2080/inside_the_park.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkoFilpBNH34Xh4Hnc10mKWGl70KdOMN0n6zZU2uymVX-rNIFMuQNBDPKA9V3aEVuYEodnJSD5R_-ujbb-65cxx_vYNexD7w9JstZP8SIqEP3i3pRCMP7mjwHZT1D2W55Nfg0JvIxGf06ydDF_Piu9GE3HROJDz3aiWDAbm85bQceD1AjX6t4zcRl5qA/w400-h300/inside_the_park.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">One of the fauna attractions inside the park<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p><span style="font-size: large;">After munching on snacks and a bit of rest, I left the park.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQudzrA9Ykt_5NS0aVbKjz8wzmWb9ZnQ8zGHqk5osR4UB_HmfyWwcMHAkjH6Ln10suUZFIjujclf8L3qHDJScaIhvL2TKGOr9VhndJClHsogKTox-H7QDlMdpCEshmIGhDHSSyHVvf5Pvp3i-SNUHg3QvH88RhHCLSmKxhLFPND1vsIOhNRFTaDg-mQ/s2080/parting_shot.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQudzrA9Ykt_5NS0aVbKjz8wzmWb9ZnQ8zGHqk5osR4UB_HmfyWwcMHAkjH6Ln10suUZFIjujclf8L3qHDJScaIhvL2TKGOr9VhndJClHsogKTox-H7QDlMdpCEshmIGhDHSSyHVvf5Pvp3i-SNUHg3QvH88RhHCLSmKxhLFPND1vsIOhNRFTaDg-mQ/w400-h300/parting_shot.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Parting shot from another end of the park<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">To keep myself motivated for another visit, I didn't go to the view points this time. Overall, it was a nice way to spend a weekend. Definitely recommended for everybody.<br /></span></p>Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-35929073679868228602022-12-24T13:17:00.002+05:302023-01-14T10:01:18.824+05:30Sangagiri Fort - relatively easy trek, good views from the peak<div><p><span style="font-size: large;">Since <a href="https://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2018/01/awesome-nagala-67-jan-2018.html">Nagala</a> way back in Jan 2018, it took me until Dec 2022 to complete another trek! After my first taste in 2009, I had been going to at least a few treks every year. And Bengaluru had so many trekking clubs and places nearby. After leaving the city in late 2017, the opportunities dwindled and I wasn't that motivated to go alone.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I decided to get back to being active physically on a more regular basis last year. Visiting <a href="https://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2022/12/yercaud.html">Yercaud</a>, <a href="https://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2022/12/mookaneri-lake.html">lakes</a>, hiking to nearby places, etc. And finally, this December, I decided to do a solo trekking. And nature decided to play a prank - it rained about 15% on the way up! It was still helpful as I got a feel for the place and also got to know about a fork in the path (from others who were sheltering from the rain).<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnaTOsRikmIGs7VuChgGV3HxyTTNgA13VbE5_56nuGFhaitvIauT2qjxxec1e5ZUYdKFN8FksmPDqGSURWHhxxGxvHBRZzDq2ATuXLonnggynzN7rhIVDuRMNddYasogGYLLJSW9C7Exxvivkbo2K6S0ksYNjL3QbQxgSn6c8J_4quh0rALAUoSkvFdw/s2080/clouds_that_rained_later.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnaTOsRikmIGs7VuChgGV3HxyTTNgA13VbE5_56nuGFhaitvIauT2qjxxec1e5ZUYdKFN8FksmPDqGSURWHhxxGxvHBRZzDq2ATuXLonnggynzN7rhIVDuRMNddYasogGYLLJSW9C7Exxvivkbo2K6S0ksYNjL3QbQxgSn6c8J_4quh0rALAUoSkvFdw/w400-h300/clouds_that_rained_later.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Near the entrance, cloudy sky<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-size: large;">Undeterred, I went again two weeks later and this time I finished it! As per <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sangagiri_Fort">Sangagiri Fort</a> wikipedia:<br /><br /></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="color: #783f04;">Sangagiri Fort was built in various times. Before 15th century total 10 of 4 Entrances were built by Vettuva Gounder King "Kunni Vettuva Raja" and after 15th century by the Vijayanagar empire. It has 14 fort walls built on and around a hill and the last phase these walls were built by the British. The fort served as a British tax storage facility for Kongu Nadu, a region comprising the districts of Salem, Erode, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Namakkal, Karur and Dindukal.It is also known as Guptha Giri<br /><br />It was an important military base for Tipu Sultan and later for the British East India Company. This is because only one side of the hill is climbable, as all the others are too steep to climb. This has a death well, granary, two oil godowns, one explosives godown, two masjiths, 2 Varadharaja Perumal temples, former British administrative buildings, and cemeteries formerly used by armies that were stationed at the fort.</span></span></blockquote><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I was better prepared for the second attempt. Got up early and reached Sangagiri around 10AM. It's about a kilometer walk from the bus stop to the fort gates. The weather was pleasant for December, although I sweated plenty once I began climbing due to humidity and exertion.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMXgOeS1v8YKfCSHiIHz4C9sQNYMmEnUmdgqwR-pugljOycQ-1oWgzmXWkbfArb4w3ouyUvClx34hHZWEgZGDhDYoYYQ1T8xPS-A6NaYssMJ59Q9MphmQmXY61EyP-ZXt_27yJkWgoWOCly4iFDv3OGgnbJRpquMUi9o5msKFkzHshRvLsxirO35Ze6g/s2080/view_from_the_base.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMXgOeS1v8YKfCSHiIHz4C9sQNYMmEnUmdgqwR-pugljOycQ-1oWgzmXWkbfArb4w3ouyUvClx34hHZWEgZGDhDYoYYQ1T8xPS-A6NaYssMJ59Q9MphmQmXY61EyP-ZXt_27yJkWgoWOCly4iFDv3OGgnbJRpquMUi9o5msKFkzHshRvLsxirO35Ze6g/w400-h300/view_from_the_base.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">View from the base<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-size: large;">Unlike the first time, there weren't many people at the fort when I started climbing. Perhaps it was too early? As per the board outside the gates, opening time is 9:30AM. Only met one group of three college students on my way up.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCVr69blvHwQBGQ6zEf-8u3s8I8GqunWM-6RBlZTifuymLT9FfX_EdfJWFz_2oqlGF9RezgCdOONN-PeRQwyqTcMluobKzVC0I_CSv57kiTSX7Xr1LYDv7s8PsTmPo-aFuWladFIsx4jsWhrR60ON7c2kk3L9Djcm9pQ67FJb3Moywe7__qnjWece0cg/s2080/local_flora.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCVr69blvHwQBGQ6zEf-8u3s8I8GqunWM-6RBlZTifuymLT9FfX_EdfJWFz_2oqlGF9RezgCdOONN-PeRQwyqTcMluobKzVC0I_CSv57kiTSX7Xr1LYDv7s8PsTmPo-aFuWladFIsx4jsWhrR60ON7c2kk3L9Djcm9pQ67FJb3Moywe7__qnjWece0cg/w400-h300/local_flora.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Enjoyed taking macro shots (wish I had better camera though)<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I didn't know how long it takes to reach the peak, so I tried to keep a good pace. There were steps or forest paths for about 90% of the climb, so I'd rate it one of the easier treks I've done. However, some of the sections were moderately steep and given I was out of shape, I had to take breaks often.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2bvdklTTE9tzkLSIFWQj3sKz0sGyvu4b-JM9x_QDnAd3FuqU-K7owVXeIb_PYjxp6KkMF_LgHTk0z3zq_ED7_EZosZ1cpu2hfnCx82-hiIH0K7A_O29GYBw0cMrXrwybihgzJG2WHExqKvaI6qepcHwhZ5kaKtHoDgKMicetV9bptlEZOpbFK_sqHvQ/s2080/one_of_the_many_forest_ways.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2bvdklTTE9tzkLSIFWQj3sKz0sGyvu4b-JM9x_QDnAd3FuqU-K7owVXeIb_PYjxp6KkMF_LgHTk0z3zq_ED7_EZosZ1cpu2hfnCx82-hiIH0K7A_O29GYBw0cMrXrwybihgzJG2WHExqKvaI6qepcHwhZ5kaKtHoDgKMicetV9bptlEZOpbFK_sqHvQ/w400-h300/one_of_the_many_forest_ways.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">One of the many forest paths<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The Sun was hidden behind the fog and clouds more often than the rays gracing the Earth. A bit of wind in relatively open area was a huge welcome. I had to stop a few times just to wipe sweat (to prevent my spectacles from falling off).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcc6vx9wBl9xDgF65_2hgKPrrr955PwoDuZLWnJK-rNKBIvXq2Bkq2RN7pL7LvcSO60rrFdIR_35MVkK83PTWDifYuDuvKKRJe2eWfDbrm1amHIJRGnZ-5c5sMVsI3NgMPniV6H2HbdN-ex1Pw1ZZer0ySWcWan7K0FJDV3Nrcq0eDAlC1kX_nxjQsNw/s2080/spot_the_spider.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcc6vx9wBl9xDgF65_2hgKPrrr955PwoDuZLWnJK-rNKBIvXq2Bkq2RN7pL7LvcSO60rrFdIR_35MVkK83PTWDifYuDuvKKRJe2eWfDbrm1amHIJRGnZ-5c5sMVsI3NgMPniV6H2HbdN-ex1Pw1ZZer0ySWcWan7K0FJDV3Nrcq0eDAlC1kX_nxjQsNw/w400-h300/spot_the_spider.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Spot the spider<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The college group were climbing leisurely, which made me wish that I was with a trekking group like <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com">BTC</a>. Anyway, I passed them soon and steadily made my way to the top. Had to encourage myself a few times that I had completed way more difficult treks in the past, it was just a matter of getting used to climbing again.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPtdmSZOtLkZAmnZm5ZZRQHMA-c5tV2Y79uP0A1KiQos8L6K8EZI3HMm8eVKiN3WwhfWF1_KLBVy9mz93DfvYs3pzsy2NHEVdTYMIF9F25zm2io709Pk1l-FuBnaR0PrxphZBWcsyHwtJX4v_UvF0_elwnWBxsNrVoXPdqEXOhtC2JzaJv_N3NpzR8uA/s2080/near_the_peak.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2080" data-original-width="1560" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPtdmSZOtLkZAmnZm5ZZRQHMA-c5tV2Y79uP0A1KiQos8L6K8EZI3HMm8eVKiN3WwhfWF1_KLBVy9mz93DfvYs3pzsy2NHEVdTYMIF9F25zm2io709Pk1l-FuBnaR0PrxphZBWcsyHwtJX4v_UvF0_elwnWBxsNrVoXPdqEXOhtC2JzaJv_N3NpzR8uA/w300-h400/near_the_peak.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Near to the peak (didn't know while climbing though)<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">There were a few sheltered structures along the way. While I didn't linger too long, I kept wondering what it was like to live there a few centuries back. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl92HvfmkOMFoMGsr_aV-f7fx8UbbqEce5t1U9oeoNqeZkCYsMHxQLhYa_4K2mooiIFwJQ4L0akpyz6suOt_7wxlcpS8hUJL7WzhAbGvnSxJ7MVqgU645qyk33Mx3z36ts1KxcnjpJbIHaMqQsMJsPnrKcv4JSUv6-dl4o0JhptM9LfDqKlCEwN5VskA/s2080/blends_well_with_the_rocks.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl92HvfmkOMFoMGsr_aV-f7fx8UbbqEce5t1U9oeoNqeZkCYsMHxQLhYa_4K2mooiIFwJQ4L0akpyz6suOt_7wxlcpS8hUJL7WzhAbGvnSxJ7MVqgU645qyk33Mx3z36ts1KxcnjpJbIHaMqQsMJsPnrKcv4JSUv6-dl4o0JhptM9LfDqKlCEwN5VskA/w400-h300/blends_well_with_the_rocks.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hard to spot amongst the rocks? Luckily I did and not stepped on it.<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Just about an hour later, I had suddenly reached the peak. It definitely came across as a surprise, and here I was guessing the climb would take close to two hours.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9EmgHA951u5hlIQrN1xPlogB8ItJ81QChph_wr18UdTZ-sn3QkQ0U3lIcgQKpe_iqtWTKluYp5GivuviEn_DbSYyKhung8TrQZaNhYEtGDo-FuMF3USK3gsT4ct3VU-o8AXcvtjhrx84PBlx-lWnWNkW9P5oZyp3wwl57EDkOXdQ-6tnDyk9E0X-8Q/s2080/view_from_the_peak.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9EmgHA951u5hlIQrN1xPlogB8ItJ81QChph_wr18UdTZ-sn3QkQ0U3lIcgQKpe_iqtWTKluYp5GivuviEn_DbSYyKhung8TrQZaNhYEtGDo-FuMF3USK3gsT4ct3VU-o8AXcvtjhrx84PBlx-lWnWNkW9P5oZyp3wwl57EDkOXdQ-6tnDyk9E0X-8Q/w400-h300/view_from_the_peak.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">View from the peak<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I spent a few minutes near the temple at the peak, taking pictures and feeling relieved that trekking was still something I could do and enjoy, even solo.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfVE7r5i6vm3ciVw8Nf_FQJNZW2WMV8_D9VAU-_E9ABd89bfaLwhSeoqZZS7STUQ15wym-4cxISdB9tBGsi1pu34vMAPqiNrpFfsN_suDDZ2bG9_pTJnvpkNGmHCjFJIBG-o3mKIb60W8NHSvjq09C5U5LliuSwJiMV6AIcT8AWHuha0OCMTr8cOMj5g/s2080/one_of_the_many_ponds.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfVE7r5i6vm3ciVw8Nf_FQJNZW2WMV8_D9VAU-_E9ABd89bfaLwhSeoqZZS7STUQ15wym-4cxISdB9tBGsi1pu34vMAPqiNrpFfsN_suDDZ2bG9_pTJnvpkNGmHCjFJIBG-o3mKIb60W8NHSvjq09C5U5LliuSwJiMV6AIcT8AWHuha0OCMTr8cOMj5g/w400-h300/one_of_the_many_ponds.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">One of the many ponds<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Apart from the temple, there were other buildings as well. There wasn't any clear paths to roam around though. Still, given that I had plenty of time and wasn't feeling too tired, I went around just to soak in the sights. There were a few ponds and the views overlooking the town on one side and highway on the other were great. Couldn't get clear shots due to fog, but it was still a nice experience.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> <br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoknRpYSDXdhoC2ShTw7k2LH5TYue-S_SOol6tym0_9WwV14hWziMvBG4bF3vEjzzoZdwJjcxFy9unZSRCRFiEob7wQahORHNdgn-JF90KsEiCVi23HKbWY7Lrth_y-FO3GcsZbDG438HnwOaBQNWvp33nzkCLOPJ_Zhf669M1qJWIU8vVrn85kOb2Yg/s1013/spot_the_bee.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="1013" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoknRpYSDXdhoC2ShTw7k2LH5TYue-S_SOol6tym0_9WwV14hWziMvBG4bF3vEjzzoZdwJjcxFy9unZSRCRFiEob7wQahORHNdgn-JF90KsEiCVi23HKbWY7Lrth_y-FO3GcsZbDG438HnwOaBQNWvp33nzkCLOPJ_Zhf669M1qJWIU8vVrn85kOb2Yg/w400-h400/spot_the_bee.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Spot the bee<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: center;"></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">After going around as much as I could, I stopped when there were too many trees. Relaxed for a while, had snacks, took more pictures/videos and then started my way back.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zijX6NkK9WU11r8E8yCmflpUGtZq-oWDswqMraotHcCrstqMFfCnXBhPnyk2KQBWEoNpn_Hb-uzQvCVPjyQfrxwWxBOTwTmSjyS2Wkz6rn908sF30VSYUHGqQZhbmJhG3s1C7aFnQKIKbuqvpDYC5y2HnnYZjHmMiTeeTufuYaoFbDFjzfoB8v8pIg/s1281/spotted_this_insect_a_lot.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="995" data-original-width="1281" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zijX6NkK9WU11r8E8yCmflpUGtZq-oWDswqMraotHcCrstqMFfCnXBhPnyk2KQBWEoNpn_Hb-uzQvCVPjyQfrxwWxBOTwTmSjyS2Wkz6rn908sF30VSYUHGqQZhbmJhG3s1C7aFnQKIKbuqvpDYC5y2HnnYZjHmMiTeeTufuYaoFbDFjzfoB8v8pIg/w400-h311/spotted_this_insect_a_lot.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Spotted this insect many times along the trekking path<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Climbing down was much faster. Hardly took a break, other than conversing with those climbing up, taking a few more pictures from different perspectives, etc.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmiFbm8Q6KqS0r01dLr7MRAL7VLVpQCkK7-sWKRbN7ua5WSKPET-YD4JRKH2tli1wbeDAudi48UQCWlrunfPNImypb5RmL5QnpuNpszkW5f2uKLE9C5sV-pATZYn0PpXObWlZff9heahXTourzbGlXukFDaNUFLcx8atAVl4cgupPqqh1rsetkg8Qnw/s2080/view_from_halfway.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmiFbm8Q6KqS0r01dLr7MRAL7VLVpQCkK7-sWKRbN7ua5WSKPET-YD4JRKH2tli1wbeDAudi48UQCWlrunfPNImypb5RmL5QnpuNpszkW5f2uKLE9C5sV-pATZYn0PpXObWlZff9heahXTourzbGlXukFDaNUFLcx8atAVl4cgupPqqh1rsetkg8Qnw/w400-h300/view_from_halfway.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">View from about halfway<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">In about 40 minutes, I was at the base. The trek took less than 2.5 hours in total. By then, a lot more people had shown up - some idled around the pool at the base and some were on their way up to the peak. A few school kids were even busy playing multiplayer games with their smartphones.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbZjwW8ph2515khDl1nKHh_LKYeZLbNn7qSYk_htUe0Hsxvs_eQvcgjJpDLeWc1-xkP-CLB3hq7BP8KGuTCmblU5nr3hInfQB7ipbR0efAE6g4fPGlaAV_Ye3Zsb289YSUT9juXw5pbj5eYnQcrfJVuUyZs7wcqc3H4FHiFl-oTzMLbEV3HJnme1hIQ/s2080/another_view_from_the_base.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbZjwW8ph2515khDl1nKHh_LKYeZLbNn7qSYk_htUe0Hsxvs_eQvcgjJpDLeWc1-xkP-CLB3hq7BP8KGuTCmblU5nr3hInfQB7ipbR0efAE6g4fPGlaAV_Ye3Zsb289YSUT9juXw5pbj5eYnQcrfJVuUyZs7wcqc3H4FHiFl-oTzMLbEV3HJnme1hIQ/w400-h300/another_view_from_the_base.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Another view from the base<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Overall, it was very satisfying to have completed my first trek after close to 5 years. I'm definitely planning to be more active in the coming months. Even if they are easier treks than what I used to do, they provide a much needed break from being in front of the computer all day.<br /></span></p></div>Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-25822426021155026572022-12-21T13:40:00.001+05:302023-01-14T10:00:20.189+05:30Mookaneri lake<p><span style="font-size: large;">While looking for a nice spot to visit, I stumbled across Mookaneri lake. What's more, it was easily reachable and promised great views all around.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxOJZzJHeyL1SV5pd6t3PJMDISNudtnR93A_gIMWVwNxnKRsuyi_mIsI-Bu5GOwNre24DVLz56PKBFAVGKkz-M6c5vpcXiu9PLd9tGpoUoMKBj24VyiqbP9nbRN3Aj_T0XCS32FXqAXLDemGfzbLfjMJ-346ypPd8BqH7Jzr7BJUKfzldDlujafItiJA/s2080/mookaneri_lake_1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxOJZzJHeyL1SV5pd6t3PJMDISNudtnR93A_gIMWVwNxnKRsuyi_mIsI-Bu5GOwNre24DVLz56PKBFAVGKkz-M6c5vpcXiu9PLd9tGpoUoMKBj24VyiqbP9nbRN3Aj_T0XCS32FXqAXLDemGfzbLfjMJ-346ypPd8BqH7Jzr7BJUKfzldDlujafItiJA/w400-h300/mookaneri_lake_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Mookarnei lake<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-size: large;">As per the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mookaneri_Lake">Mookaneri Lake</a> wikipedia entry:<br /></span></p><blockquote><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">It is located to the south of the Shevaroy Hills, and is a major water body of Salem. The lake is fed by rainfall from the surrounding area, including the hills surrounding Yercaud, which flows into the lake via the Puthu Yeri and Kothukaran Odai streams.<br /><br />There are 47 man-made islands in the lake. Each island was created by excavating and piling lakebed clay about 10 feet high, and covers and area of a few thousand square feet. Initially, millet was planted on the islands to arrest erosion and help build a soil layer, before saplings of neem, banyan, jambul, peepal, and vetiver trees could be planted. The lake islands were populated by nearly 12,000 trees as of 2013.</span></span></blockquote><span style="font-size: large;"><br />I surprised to know that so much effort had been made to avoid erosion. And that it was formed via streams from <a href="https://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2022/12/yercaud.html">Yercaud, which I had visited just the previous month</a>.<br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_izBunaSX5I" width="320" youtube-src-id="_izBunaSX5I"></iframe></span></div><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Armed with directions to reach the lake, I decided to walk about 1.5 kilometers from a bus stop. In hindsight, that was a mistake as I got sore feet while returning.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, the place wasn't crowded despite being a weekend. Perhaps because I had reached about an hour before noon? I took pictures and videos and relaxed a bit in the narrow park along the lake boundary. Some of the locals were fishing and some were taking a nap.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> <br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOr4sufImmjbDCeMpBY9TblgdP9Ui39ZAH89GMzLrr1gUqfaq2F8_c4pVMuYUT4LLSfZoHe3CTFJ2c6dm9uPzc_TzeSExvT2VBn5OK0KfSie5rkFYvXQ_Gem97HtMOEHpZeZCTTqVGF1QezhDFi55YngyVH0k47AZPVWBbXSmV1QopMh9nyg5AY2CB4Q/s2080/mookaneri_lake_trees_islands.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOr4sufImmjbDCeMpBY9TblgdP9Ui39ZAH89GMzLrr1gUqfaq2F8_c4pVMuYUT4LLSfZoHe3CTFJ2c6dm9uPzc_TzeSExvT2VBn5OK0KfSie5rkFYvXQ_Gem97HtMOEHpZeZCTTqVGF1QezhDFi55YngyVH0k47AZPVWBbXSmV1QopMh9nyg5AY2CB4Q/w400-h300/mookaneri_lake_trees_islands.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Some of the man-made islands<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">After about three months, I went back for another visit. This time, it was way too crowded due to a local festival (I hadn't known though). And thanks to the monsoon rains, the water level had risen too. Learning from previous visit, I had taken a bus ride much closer to the lake and thus was able to spend a lot more time walking along the lake. Looking forward to going there again next year.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVt6i_qvuzfbFML-xiWi5AWNRJUU9Ekm7eRYf4uOhXQ9mG92DVlfC-_1khICbn9HMGNlGRAzn2Inj3y3rm_0i1kEra2APYMVsTSHL542QlDXyWCN_45a8SDrgFM_9OCzqmYlTfqBzKKcx9ZX2NaRk4cgf83vbC262cCs1DwBM88jtDB81yJEKuCloKA/s2080/mookaneri_lake_2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVt6i_qvuzfbFML-xiWi5AWNRJUU9Ekm7eRYf4uOhXQ9mG92DVlfC-_1khICbn9HMGNlGRAzn2Inj3y3rm_0i1kEra2APYMVsTSHL542QlDXyWCN_45a8SDrgFM_9OCzqmYlTfqBzKKcx9ZX2NaRk4cgf83vbC262cCs1DwBM88jtDB81yJEKuCloKA/w400-h300/mookaneri_lake_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Mookaneri lake</span><p><span style="font-size: large;"> <br /></span></p></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-70891207574039070812022-12-19T14:27:00.002+05:302023-01-14T09:59:52.674+05:30Yercaud<p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yercaud">Yercaud</a> is a popular tourist spot in Southern India (see <a href="https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Yercaud">wikivoyage</a> for detailed travel guide). I don't remember much other than going to a park regarding the first time I went there (as a side trip during one of the marriages of college friends). And despite living close by since 2017, it wasn't until 2021 that I went there again. Even that needed a couple of my friends dragging me out. I'm glad they did.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"> </span></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #351c75;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><span>January 2021</span></span></span></h2><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">We had our own vehicle, but there are frequent buses too. It wasn't that cold for January at the foothills. I still packed warm clothing and that came in handy at the peak.<br /></span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJB2Dh1QNwRUIvUZQ_H5AXGXSKJXSw8YBInyYnvqb5T9Ubm52_aaOb1JMrWk6BSJFz747qPT4Q9KBbcS4HWLzJ7SndK_XMe-OOzoNfjzeSlwhjogEV1VjtpyeYxLYRxf4b2gpL6yDnQn_U4NzinZO0EfGLqWvUS0XPTR9kRLU5mJzMFNTIE3ide8g-IQ/s2080/on_the_way_up.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJB2Dh1QNwRUIvUZQ_H5AXGXSKJXSw8YBInyYnvqb5T9Ubm52_aaOb1JMrWk6BSJFz747qPT4Q9KBbcS4HWLzJ7SndK_XMe-OOzoNfjzeSlwhjogEV1VjtpyeYxLYRxf4b2gpL6yDnQn_U4NzinZO0EfGLqWvUS0XPTR9kRLU5mJzMFNTIE3ide8g-IQ/w400-h300/on_the_way_up.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">On the way up<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"> </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">About 20 hairpin bends later, we reached the peak. There are a couple of parks and a lake among other tourist attractions. We spoke about going for a boat ride, but the wait time was too long and we decided to skip.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD_d-MDxKVT8joxidwpeToK84S-EL6Txa-nZH6Sr7FyIIt6TX8D0AQJLyYkx7xm3AyizbamISHb-7xMLoRP9OolAQm62kbZQEyvRgYspMN0PjMi7xCieITAy0dwYt4FmWiUQevVUXxAp03B2vLyBXQAM4VT98RN_NwZmyRUkW_aXl1yS9el7XIQIOzmw/s2080/lake.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD_d-MDxKVT8joxidwpeToK84S-EL6Txa-nZH6Sr7FyIIt6TX8D0AQJLyYkx7xm3AyizbamISHb-7xMLoRP9OolAQm62kbZQEyvRgYspMN0PjMi7xCieITAy0dwYt4FmWiUQevVUXxAp03B2vLyBXQAM4VT98RN_NwZmyRUkW_aXl1yS9el7XIQIOzmw/w400-h300/lake.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">Boating in the lake</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">Like any tourist place, options for food and beverage were overpriced. The coffee shop we went had a nice ambience.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKXP9Wu2CdNm24CMfRGqjnwoL9NmYWGgt2G7B4AFjFxC3T1JwBS9JLnfXc4GqfyKG9r7sl3XK0oO08WVAtQ_lLDk1_CgmC1yjiEgJoNWGIeHaf55khxkO8nXF45z8ISfc5F-EhW6SfaT0tbxGUmtQE6vCgG94X2LK4H5yrN-_vfSu4Ko9xy1w6YfNdtw/s2080/nursery.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKXP9Wu2CdNm24CMfRGqjnwoL9NmYWGgt2G7B4AFjFxC3T1JwBS9JLnfXc4GqfyKG9r7sl3XK0oO08WVAtQ_lLDk1_CgmC1yjiEgJoNWGIeHaf55khxkO8nXF45z8ISfc5F-EhW6SfaT0tbxGUmtQE6vCgG94X2LK4H5yrN-_vfSu4Ko9xy1w6YfNdtw/w400-h300/nursery.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">Nursery near the coffee shop<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">There was a nursery near the coffee shop that I enjoyed browsing. My friends bought a few plants too. After that, we got a few local products like tea, coffee, home made chocolates, scents, etc. Overall, it was a nice trip, especially in the company of friends. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"> </span></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #351c75;"><span>May 2022</span></span><br /></span></h2><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">I finally managed to get my lazy self to visit Yercaud again. Went alone this time. Was bored from writing programming books and this was a chance to get some relief from summer temperatures as well. I got up early and caught a bus ride to the peak.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">I made the mistake of going during a weekend in summer. Once I reached there, it was clear that there were just too many tourists. I had to wait about 30 minutes to get breakfast served.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-kVHX98WgTt6AF4rhtQUPTihwz3Kuof9u57oVd7IpGodiSOrxAENfG25EIZpo6JFRjvE5FYRJuY9t-nVM7IRXw5_xE6ISBCoVY5o_Vsg0q_YfIYP0CYQpA8NJ0p6keOq9bCyqVd3UH_w8e82LdU6VLs9u0rspxl96d9gKUOsQXzj3iX03vH-ipmAyQ/s2080/lake_clear_sky.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-kVHX98WgTt6AF4rhtQUPTihwz3Kuof9u57oVd7IpGodiSOrxAENfG25EIZpo6JFRjvE5FYRJuY9t-nVM7IRXw5_xE6ISBCoVY5o_Vsg0q_YfIYP0CYQpA8NJ0p6keOq9bCyqVd3UH_w8e82LdU6VLs9u0rspxl96d9gKUOsQXzj3iX03vH-ipmAyQ/w400-h300/lake_clear_sky.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">Lake under a clear sky</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">I was too early for parks to have opened. So, I just strolled around and got a glimpse of ongoing constructions and village life. There were kids learning self-defense in school grounds.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">After one of the parks opened, I spent a few hours there. By the time I had come back after the stroll, it had become crowded. Still, there was enough space to sit around and observe tourists having breakfast, enjoying the swings, snapping selfies, etc.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqFYkmvzBT5Loc3L57Szm0DpxNWeJ9asV_1vFGEtGSjcDzQAAPEjYKtcLttuz5Q2Rqze-A5U3AZwQC-nmURZSzElG7Nwaujo0ShgnYfOnIbTtVeVN__la-zBWoLOZWq24MblK8TWySf3DoM7Azg-JWCVa9ZZ0jAm3VgmtleS-Cd6K25zy29YvmKd5Og/s2080/adventure_activity.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqFYkmvzBT5Loc3L57Szm0DpxNWeJ9asV_1vFGEtGSjcDzQAAPEjYKtcLttuz5Q2Rqze-A5U3AZwQC-nmURZSzElG7Nwaujo0ShgnYfOnIbTtVeVN__la-zBWoLOZWq24MblK8TWySf3DoM7Azg-JWCVa9ZZ0jAm3VgmtleS-Cd6K25zy29YvmKd5Og/w400-h300/adventure_activity.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">Adventure activities<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">Boating was out of question. So, I went to check the coffee shop from the previous year and that was crowded too. I simply walked around the streets and found a place organizing adventure activities for kids (which was unsurprisingly crowded too).<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">I decided to return back early. But first, I got some home made chocolates and masala tea. Then, as I went to the bus stop, I came to know about the main attraction event for the tourists - flower show. The waiting queue was too long outside the gate, contributing to the traffic problems.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;">Lots and lots of tourists were still coming up. So much so that it took about couple of hours to go down 4 hairpin bends. Luckily, I had brought snacks (just in case). I will likely go back next year in summer, but I will certainly avoid the weekends!!<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Open Sans; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-31492308429596528992019-06-05T12:01:00.001+05:302019-06-05T12:01:33.723+05:30Mini reviews for books read in April and May<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;">Book title links and images courtesy <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/">goodreads</a></span></span></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27208398-maddie-hatter-and-the-deadly-diamond">Maddie Hatter and the Deadly Diamond</a> ★★★★</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFfiQ0S4Gus/XPYbuZInzDI/AAAAAAAAwoM/wRg9tSRnHfcztcAMYSNfVjFfd9YLuGSUgCLcBGAs/s1600/maddie_hatter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFfiQ0S4Gus/XPYbuZInzDI/AAAAAAAAwoM/wRg9tSRnHfcztcAMYSNfVjFfd9YLuGSUgCLcBGAs/s320/maddie_hatter.jpg" width="202" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">I was looking for a change from usual action packed saving-the-world fantasy. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> This is more sci-fi steampunk than fantasy, but you get the point. </span>Was on my TBR from long time and felt like it was time to read this. The mystery/detective aspect didn't draw me in much, perhaps I had high expectations. Characters were delightful and the setting would appeal to classical readers. Plus, the illustrations were top notch. If you like this, do check out the sequels as well.</span> <span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bloodwood Summer</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I signed up as beta reader on <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/fantasywriters/comments/b82ilt/the_quarterly_thread_for_beta_readers/">reddit</a> for this early draft copy. This would interest those looking for small scale conflicts rather than wars. The magic system was interesting and had a lively feeling to it. Best of wishes for the author to get it published.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22819354-age-of-legend">Age of Legend</a> ★★★★</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NJUMBp-I-LM/XPYcFJGVldI/AAAAAAAAwoU/pUhPrMYwhlM9qst0RlBqy8lVfp74HN_oACLcBGAs/s1600/age_of_legend.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NJUMBp-I-LM/XPYcFJGVldI/AAAAAAAAwoU/pUhPrMYwhlM9qst0RlBqy8lVfp74HN_oACLcBGAs/s320/age_of_legend.jpg" width="212" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">This the 4th book in <a href="https://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2019/03/book-review-legends-of-first-empire.html">The Legends of the First Empire</a> series. Releases next month, but I was lucky enough to nab a gamma reader spot (which was a satisfying experience, hoping to continue with more books in future). The series can be read as 2 trilogies, the 3rd book had a solid ending and this one starts a bit slow compared to pacing in earlier books. Split into 3 parts, this book has time skips too, and personally I felt some more things could've been added to first 2 parts to make the transition easier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Characters continue to be the strong point of the series and this book had an interesting development wrt some side characters from earlier books - the highlight of the book for me. The sudden cliffhanger ending was kinda odd, but looking back I'd say it was the best choice taking into consideration what can be expected in next book. The next two books are expected to be released in less than a year, that helps too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/437788.Song_of_the_Beast">Song of the Beast</a> ★★★★</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vyPbU6QMVMI/XPaKkjVVr1I/AAAAAAAAwok/l3Ef4QYXbtIBAWIqIH4wkakneNZB1T-TACLcBGAs/s1600/song_of_beast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="295" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vyPbU6QMVMI/XPaKkjVVr1I/AAAAAAAAwok/l3Ef4QYXbtIBAWIqIH4wkakneNZB1T-TACLcBGAs/s320/song_of_beast.jpg" width="198" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Discoverin</span><span style="font-size: large;">g that you like a book from an established active author is always a good feeling. My TBR list increases at a rate far greater than my reading speed. But knowing that you can trust an author after just one book always helps when you are looking to choose a book based on your current mood.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This book is about a musician who was falsely imprisoned and his bond with dragons. There's politics and war and intrigue and an interesting race as well, but to me Aidan and his story was the highlight of the book. It is a standalone as well, do check it out if you want something different than usual tropes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43587154-jade-city">Jade City</a> ★★★</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPHOBCpg6IA/XPaKyYvGOZI/AAAAAAAAwoo/eUdb6pvokXYBkezBvbd5GyuBAU8ZgjLRgCLcBGAs/s1600/jade_city.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPHOBCpg6IA/XPaKyYvGOZI/AAAAAAAAwoo/eUdb6pvokXYBkezBvbd5GyuBAU8ZgjLRgCLcBGAs/s320/jade_city.jpg" width="212" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Well, this was not my kinda book. Don't remember on what basis I had added it to my TBR, but I think it was a recommendation to readers who enjoyed Cradle (Asian culture, power levels, etc). Anyways, if you feel something like Godfather in Asian fantasy setting sounds interesting, then you should check this out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39713820-sorcerous-rivalry">Sorcerous Rivalry</a> ★★★★</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ezRWzaVzMYI/XPaLC09FdZI/AAAAAAAAwo0/7E-wwXzUVdkyqyOEezDCyR56BFscd-HUQCLcBGAs/s1600/sorcerous_rivalry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="297" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ezRWzaVzMYI/XPaLC09FdZI/AAAAAAAAwo0/7E-wwXzUVdkyqyOEezDCyR56BFscd-HUQCLcBGAs/s320/sorcerous_rivalry.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">The book is aptly named, but it was a rude shock when the first fight came up suddenly. I liked the main POV character (and his application of tricks with magic), and few other characters, but not so much the other main character. The revelations at the end helped clarify a lot about that character, but I'd have liked if it had been brought up much earlier. I've read books with LGBTQ+ characters before, but I think this was the first with romance to such lengths. Honestly, it felt awkward to the point of spoiling the enjoyment for me, which I guess puts things in perspective as well. The magic system was interesting, though a few more details would've been welcome.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/613991.The_King_Beyond_the_Gate">The King Beyond the Gate</a> ★★★★</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I liked this, but felt the plot was a bit too similar to <b>Legend</b>, which I had read a while back. The main antagonist had plenty of build up, but had nothing to show for in terms of action. As usual, the author's writing shines and pacing keeps you turning pages.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25735140-the-traveler-s-gate-trilogy">The Traveler's Gate</a> and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25800856-the-traveler-s-gate-chronicles">Chronicles</a> ★★★★</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">However much I liked Brandon Sanderson's books, reading them back to back is a mistake that I'm trying to avoid with other authors. That surely helped with </span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2019/03/book-review-legends-of-first-empire.html">The Legends of the First Empire</a> series and now with Traveler's Gate too. Having read all of Cradle series, I waited before starting this. I actually wanted to read even later this year, but mood and the fact that this was a complete series made this irresistible.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">This is a fun portal fantasy series. The main character is a likeable young protagonist who trains and becomes a fiercesome fighter. There's plenty of action scenes and fast pacing means you could easily finish the trilogy and short stories in about a week. Among others, I liked the creepy, insane character the best. Somewhat like Sanderson, Will Wight's writing has improved over time - this being his first published series, felt a bit unpolished. That said, I'm so looking forward to more books in this setting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44653170-sky-album">Sky Album</a> ★★★★</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Quite a change to read this, I'm mostly into fantasy fiction. Having met the author in a meet up, I decided to check this out. The pics were are all nice - though I wish there were more, like sky with kites, tall buildings, sunrise among the mountains (having captured a few myself on treks), etc.</span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-size: large;">I'm not much into philosophical stuff these days, so the accompanying text were a bit lost to me. Still, I could feel some of the emotions the author was conveying and you are sure to come away feeling positive after reading this short book.</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-18130548891254940942019-03-29T14:02:00.000+05:302019-03-29T14:02:02.710+05:30Book review - The Legends of the First Empire<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/96465-the-riyria-revelations">Riyria Revelations</a> is one of the best fantasy series I've read. It started (relatively) slowly and by middle of the series, I was totally immersed and couldn't stop reading. I hope there are sequels planned ;)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />I then kept books set in Elan aside to read other books before starting <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/175806-the-riyria-chronicles">Riyria Chronicles</a>. While I liked them, I felt these weren't as good as Revelations. So, when <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/135626-the-legends-of-the-first-empire">Legends</a> series came up, I had planned to wait for entire series to finish - for binge reading, as well as allowing more time to pass.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Picture credit: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/135626-the-legends-of-the-first-empire">goodreads</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This past week, I finally gave up and started the series (without knowing that the three books released so far can be read as a trilogy, something like two arcs of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/49075-the-stormlight-archive">Stormlight Archive</a> I guess). It was a pleasant surprise that it was so fast paced, right from the start. I ended up finishing the books in about 6 days. I would place this series among top classical fantasy series like <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/66175-the-lord-of-the-rings">LoTR</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/41526-the-wheel-of-time">WoT</a> and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/49188-memory-sorrow-and-thorn">MST</a>. Apart from the racing plot, the highlight of the series were its characters - POV as well as side characters.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I would highly recommend the series (can be started without reading the Riyria books) - keep tissue papers handy.</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-80612346734220805822019-03-23T09:40:00.000+05:302019-06-04T12:42:01.207+05:30Mini reviews for last four self published books I read<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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All four are available on Amazon Kindle Unlimited.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.amazon.in/dp/B07NJ3B6HN" style="margin: 0px; text-decoration: none;">Underlord</a></span> ★★★★★</div>
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This book was so good, on par with Blackflame (3rd in the <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/192821-cradle">Cradle</a> series) and Ghostwater (5th)</div>
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I had binged the first five late last year and had no issues following without a reread (there were hints to refresh our memory). The main characters each have a unique voice by now and it was so good to get into that space quickly. Nice to see so many laugh-out-loud moments, topped by the bloopers section. Awesome action scenes is a given in this series. Prologue and Epilogue were great as well, which showed events around the world and beyond.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.amazon.in/dp/B079Q487P5" style="margin: 0px; text-decoration: none;">Balam, Spring</a></span> ★★★★</div>
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This has been pending for a long time on TBR, finally picked it up.</div>
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Good change of pace from usual action packed fantasy. The entire story takes place in a small town where practically everybody knows everybody else.</div>
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I felt the author could've done a better job with one of the main characters, but could as well be considered as part of the charm. Things just are. The mystery aspect was handled well. It felt a bit dark at times but I thought it was justified after knowing the reveal at the end.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.amazon.in/dp/B07JWFDM2F" style="margin: 0px; text-decoration: none;">Minimum Wage Magic</a></span> ★★★★</div>
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Nice start to follow up <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/128485-heartstrikers">Heartstrikers</a> series, which is one of the best series I read last year.</div>
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This was again easy to read, fast paced with nice action scenes. I do hope we get cameos from our dear MCs from earlier series, but things are interesting enough without them as well. Sometimes, less is more ;)</div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.amazon.in/dp/B074BWYVF5" style="margin: 0px; text-decoration: none;">The Dragon Seller</a></span> ★★★★</div>
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This is the kind of book that made me love self published books. This one has vegetarian dragons who have a bond-like relationship to trees and are loyal like pets, so cool. It is a fast paced, easy to read Urban fantasy with likeable characters. Some questions remained unanswered, which is fine by me, but I hope there are more books in this setting.</div>
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I found this one on <span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://weatherwaxreport.blog/2018/04/15/the-dragon-seller-by-f-g-ferarrio/" style="margin: 0px; text-decoration: none;">weatherwaxreport</a></span> - thanks a lot Esme :)<br />
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-86292042851142048992018-01-10T18:52:00.000+05:302018-01-10T18:52:53.456+05:30Awesome Nagala - 6,7 Jan 2018<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">What better way to start a new year than jumping in the pools of Nagala with friends from <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/">BTC</a>? As usual, our meeting point was opposite Majestic, Terminal 3. I was coming from Salem via train and reached before everyone else :P Soon others arrived and we chit-chatted till it was time to start our journey. Arun, our organizer for the trek, welcomed us and was asking who had extra space to carry groceries during the trek. Thankfully we were only a short distance on our way, because Arun realized that we'd forgotten the grocery bag and went back to get it.</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3396134920498396875" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">We reached Nagala before 5:30AM on Saturday. As usual, our local guide Giri was there. We refreshed up at a marriage hall and resumed our journey to Nagala base. On the way, we stopped by Giri's place for breakfast(tasty idlis+chutneys) and packing lunch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the base, 10 of us who'd opted for life-jackets (thanks Satish for getting them) strapped to our bags while others enthusiastically took a share of groceries to carry. Arun re-iterated BTC rules and we were on our way. By that time, Arun and I had raised plenty of expectations for first timers to Nagala regarding pools to visit as well as withholding some secrets :P Some first timers had already come with expectations from their friends tales. By end of the trek, everybody expressed that Nagala exceeded all their combined expectations ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">By the time we started (with a dog which tagged along with us throughout the trek), the morning chill had dissipated and made for a pleasant weather. The sight of full dam indicated pools would be full and flowing - which again turned out better than expected. Early start and enthusiastic trekkers meant we made fast progress. Also, excluding Giri, we were 12 member group - much smaller than the usual 20+ members for Nagala trips. I felt that smaller group worked out well in all aspects.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">With just short breaks, we reached the first (<i>Darr ke aage jeet hai</i>) pool in less than two hours. Which meant we had plenty of time to play in water. I introduced the 1-2-3-jump mantra for first timers with life-jackets. It was so good to see them overcoming their fears and take the leap of faith. Some even had the courage to do the 20+ feet jump :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After a while, we took a tea break (thanks Arun and Giri) as well as to warm ourselves in the Sun (water was chilly) And of course we went in for another round - jumping and floating and so on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then it was time for lunch - lemon rice and snacks. We had brought boxes to reduce waste, but it also resulted in packing more than we could eat :P We experimented if the small fishes in the steam would feed - yup, they attacked and finished off before even a single rice could touch the bottom. So, many of us soon indulged in feeding the fishes :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After short rest, we continued on to reach the next pool. A bit tough to get going after heavy lunch but we soon hit our strides again and reached our camping spot (a large half open cave, just below the peak) in about half an hour. Luckily we had arrived before another group came(who then camped on the peak)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ACdYBRcnudg/WlYRpXkxTyI/AAAAAAAAwUY/Kh6oydNp6rIICZSg9QZYEtxZ0_pklz3tQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1100.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ACdYBRcnudg/WlYRpXkxTyI/AAAAAAAAwUY/Kh6oydNp6rIICZSg9QZYEtxZ0_pklz3tQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_1100.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another break later, we spread the tarpaulin we'd brought in our camping spot. Then with our life-jackets, we went up first to a short waterfall (about 15-20 minute walk beyond the sliding pool). Water force was strong enough for us to clamor for a chance to stand/sit under it. And of course posing for photos :P</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We then went back to experience the natural slide - again some were queasy about trying it. In the end everybody had fun, so much so they were ready to second/third turns - despite the cold water and tricky climb back. Going in with strapped sandals is the best option to avoid chance of skin scraping.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OOH_ef01UWk/WlYSQITK3RI/AAAAAAAAwUw/XGM4FsI1UGIhJhPt_a99UHrfqW6X8aCMACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1124.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OOH_ef01UWk/WlYSQITK3RI/AAAAAAAAwUw/XGM4FsI1UGIhJhPt_a99UHrfqW6X8aCMACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_1124.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then started the grand dinner preparation - some took to helping cut the vegetables, some to fill water bottles and wash vessels, some to help Giri in firewood collection and so on. We even cleaned up some of the garbage left by others. Along with dinner preparation, we had another round of tea and snacks. And thanks to Samir and Mamatha, we gobbled up a tasty salad as well. All the while chit-chatting and pulling legs (especially Suhail, we won't be forgetting that for a while :P)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dinner was very tasty, thanks to chefs Mamatha and Ramya, along with Giri and Arun for help. Our <i>gup-shup</i> was still continuing in full flow. Then we went to peak for eye-feast - sparkling stars on a clear night. Ganesh told us about constellations and other trivia. We switched off our torches and held silence for a while, soaking in nature's wild beauty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We then made arrangements to sleep, with Giri sleeping nearby the camp fire(and stoked it throughout the night). We woke by 5 AM to freshen up and start early again. Breakfast was tea, snacks and maggi. Group photo before leaving for the third and final pool.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QDBMYLyKM8w/WlYS2GhG1RI/AAAAAAAAwU8/raIlODezjVsizo5JGc-1Lait7dqCHlzygCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1132.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QDBMYLyKM8w/WlYS2GhG1RI/AAAAAAAAwU8/raIlODezjVsizo5JGc-1Lait7dqCHlzygCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_1132.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Again, we made brisk progress and reached the deadend pool in about an hour. Always fun crossing the stream, which was knee deep at one point. We all made for the hidden waterfall first - it was the most water flow I'd seen there. Everybody had a blast standing under it and Samir's gopro was kept busy. Then it was time again for jumps - encouraged by previous day's effort, many enjoyed the ~15 feet jump. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lunch was mostly bread+jam and some snacks. Didn't expect that the rolls I'd brought from Salem would be so liked (probably the hunger made it so :P) - may be I'll take more the next time around :D. Then it was time to go - looking back, feels like time flew very fast during the trek.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As we were going back to Bengaluru the same day, we trekked back as fast as we could. We reached the base before 2:30PM - usually we would be having lunch after enjoying deadend pool around that time when it was night travel.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After commending and dropping off Giri, we had feedback session - so good to hear first timers expressing their wonder of enjoying the natural pools :) Rest of the journey was sleeping, chit-chatting, sharing photos, contacts, etc. We had dinner in Palamaner, after which I slept nicely till Hosakote :P Then it was time to say goodbye and a promise to meet again - BTC sure is addicting ;)</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-48358146334817859422017-08-07T17:58:00.000+05:302017-08-07T18:00:46.895+05:30Exploring Kanawai Hills - 30 July 2017<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Exploring treks with <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/">BTC</a> are sure fun, even if it means getting scratches all over your body. The name Kanawai hills doesn't even show up when searched online except for BTC references. </span><span style="font-size: large;">It hosts the Bala Kondarayana Swamy Thirukoil (temple) and 2-3 houses at the base on one side (with proper steps all the way to peak)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lYvmOYWljGo/WYcOm7Nu2aI/AAAAAAAAvzE/TVDlPV4de_M-dpuS7eYm16QTVaThWocGgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0730.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lYvmOYWljGo/WYcOm7Nu2aI/AAAAAAAAvzE/TVDlPV4de_M-dpuS7eYm16QTVaThWocGgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0730.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MXvb81LOK-w/WYcOpVhTU7I/AAAAAAAAvzM/nneXdo3OuVoxBBlkv214DnPgfWogC_LoACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0734.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MXvb81LOK-w/WYcOpVhTU7I/AAAAAAAAvzM/nneXdo3OuVoxBBlkv214DnPgfWogC_LoACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0734.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another oddity was Silk Board as meeting point. After everybody had assembled, we took a bus going towards Krishnagiri and got down at Sri Venkateshwara Institute of Engineering. We had our usual intro session there. Organizers Ashish, Dinesh and Bharti re-iterated BTC policies. Shopkeeper nearby helped us with rough way ahead to the hill. Dinesh had bought seed-balls from previous day go-green event - we dispersed them as we trekked.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T0NrkNciaAg/WYcOwpfQ9AI/AAAAAAAAvzU/rT8ONFVCxZMUw7RJwT94rcO22mu-bkyDACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0738.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T0NrkNciaAg/WYcOwpfQ9AI/AAAAAAAAvzU/rT8ONFVCxZMUw7RJwT94rcO22mu-bkyDACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0738.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ir1pdSV6CAY/WYcO46J6R3I/AAAAAAAAvzc/ahuyK27lVmIGWTBKBX0DjbpnydtTS14CwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0740.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ir1pdSV6CAY/WYcO46J6R3I/AAAAAAAAvzc/ahuyK27lVmIGWTBKBX0DjbpnydtTS14CwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0740.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sun played hide and seek throughout the day. Overall, it wasn't too hot as can be in these parts. Being first trek as organizer, Bharti was the primary <i>bakra</i> to pile jokes upon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aDAoqtYdNZo/WYcPOXAq93I/AAAAAAAAvzk/0tvkScGB3UoGnwPrlsWMq-3bT1rZdi47ACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0765.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aDAoqtYdNZo/WYcPOXAq93I/AAAAAAAAvzk/0tvkScGB3UoGnwPrlsWMq-3bT1rZdi47ACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0765.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r90-VoZbq40/WYcPVbA7k6I/AAAAAAAAvzs/Cn8dO7BzzHE6pewb8nLjQ6Vb2eAki85GACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0770.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r90-VoZbq40/WYcPVbA7k6I/AAAAAAAAvzs/Cn8dO7BzzHE6pewb8nLjQ6Vb2eAki85GACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0770.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vcplefCO5HQ/WYcPgbf8zBI/AAAAAAAAvz0/yuX08eSU9E4qNk7YPiJh6S6SxfYVUR_JACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0774.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vcplefCO5HQ/WYcPgbf8zBI/AAAAAAAAvz0/yuX08eSU9E4qNk7YPiJh6S6SxfYVUR_JACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0774.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As we neared the base, we came upon large open grassy field. The villager overlooking his herd of sheep called to us and advised not to proceed the way we were going. He said that this path was full of thorny plants and trees and that our clothing was bound to be all shredded. Given other organizers had done this route the previous week, we still wanted to go ahead and the villager told what he knew about the path.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fdUPC3J8C7w/WYcP651EmUI/AAAAAAAAvz8/Qxk-B72-FkcASuyTHJ5u3qwBKu_igUZlQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0792.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fdUPC3J8C7w/WYcP651EmUI/AAAAAAAAvz8/Qxk-B72-FkcASuyTHJ5u3qwBKu_igUZlQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0792.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m90GSGgL6ks/WYcP8kHKkYI/AAAAAAAAv0E/ZEF0H8711usWPulyT5q-4eZPyO9rYR0dgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0793.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m90GSGgL6ks/WYcP8kHKkYI/AAAAAAAAv0E/ZEF0H8711usWPulyT5q-4eZPyO9rYR0dgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0793.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pretty soon, we got a taste of thorny challenges that would follow us all the way up to peak. It wasn't that difficult initially. Branches and bushes to be avoided here and there, still on legs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJq1bUKcnMk/WYcQJ2exnXI/AAAAAAAAv0M/niJll-uOkiEe9xUzDoO_GSetuiQUo3lbgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0795.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJq1bUKcnMk/WYcQJ2exnXI/AAAAAAAAv0M/niJll-uOkiEe9xUzDoO_GSetuiQUo3lbgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0795.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EM5MauCI8cE/WYcQQSIZPYI/AAAAAAAAv0U/2gMUlZmISlgJU0M-kDPJryvAFurWuCZOgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0798.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EM5MauCI8cE/WYcQQSIZPYI/AAAAAAAAv0U/2gMUlZmISlgJU0M-kDPJryvAFurWuCZOgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0798.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOtjlabhFZs/WYcQT5LCBCI/AAAAAAAAv0c/_imxWUbx7S4sTGxhkJG-aGpqBUrG_pADACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0802.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOtjlabhFZs/WYcQT5LCBCI/AAAAAAAAv0c/_imxWUbx7S4sTGxhkJG-aGpqBUrG_pADACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0802.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then the bad stretches started. Our progress came to a standstill very often. Dinesh and his lieutenants did their best to choose the way ahead as well as clearing bit of thorny branches. Still, we had to literally crawl, using our bags as protection wherever possible. Many a times, we didn't even have space to use our hands for support. Despite our best efforts, we got plenty of scratches. Certain kind of clothing were ill-suited and likely thrown away when they reached back home that day :P</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYJIPPARoiI/WYcQi5gpQtI/AAAAAAAAv0k/m20Dr6Dgt441EUx5g76PJCRHeeo0XEswwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0815.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYJIPPARoiI/WYcQi5gpQtI/AAAAAAAAv0k/m20Dr6Dgt441EUx5g76PJCRHeeo0XEswwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0815.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sbIoPMMab1Q/WYcQsv0u7SI/AAAAAAAAv0s/Ms4nkhgCnkEuAVgj6bWynkvr4bgYHIrQQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0824.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sbIoPMMab1Q/WYcQsv0u7SI/AAAAAAAAv0s/Ms4nkhgCnkEuAVgj6bWynkvr4bgYHIrQQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0824.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AjnlhDTfF94/WYcQxKdpTHI/AAAAAAAAv00/34g_WUA40wgwd0rkmqO4XmGONsJRaEcygCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0825.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AjnlhDTfF94/WYcQxKdpTHI/AAAAAAAAv00/34g_WUA40wgwd0rkmqO4XmGONsJRaEcygCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0825.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The rocky clearings were a great relief. Not only did they allow momentary change from thorns everywhere, we could gather as group for rest, snacks and photo-shoots. Green spiders, wild flowers and fruits, weird insects, etc were another source of entertainment and photography.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Nk4HavIIGU/WYcQ6m8ptBI/AAAAAAAAv08/aqic6-Tp2zwQSl374OG7smjtVNpHqj8UQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0837.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Nk4HavIIGU/WYcQ6m8ptBI/AAAAAAAAv08/aqic6-Tp2zwQSl374OG7smjtVNpHqj8UQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0837.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dNleiyJnYOw/WYcQ_XvgL7I/AAAAAAAAv1E/Uk3vHzyBBSAmDGVpJpLDGuINe8q68E3EQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0839.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dNleiyJnYOw/WYcQ_XvgL7I/AAAAAAAAv1E/Uk3vHzyBBSAmDGVpJpLDGuINe8q68E3EQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0839.JPG" width="240" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JUVGwvVSVSM/WYcRKUqPl3I/AAAAAAAAv1M/7_0F8YJ5tL8OfW_Iw_M13x_9JWs0GQnFwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0848.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JUVGwvVSVSM/WYcRKUqPl3I/AAAAAAAAv1M/7_0F8YJ5tL8OfW_Iw_M13x_9JWs0GQnFwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0848.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our progress had same story repeated again and again. Crawling through bad stretches sometimes took as long as half an hour to cross about 20 meters. Often we would joke that we might have to come back the same way, may be as bad as returning after going 90% of the way up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JuGD7O1Yjcw/WYcRRVEsVbI/AAAAAAAAv1U/IjCE4kjhgNcloOd0Z8umHo2eybCjWX-YQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0869.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JuGD7O1Yjcw/WYcRRVEsVbI/AAAAAAAAv1U/IjCE4kjhgNcloOd0Z8umHo2eybCjWX-YQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0869.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oxot1WDgf7c/WYcRYgdM3JI/AAAAAAAAv1c/sgFEZaRkJb8Z8dBw_UJP98OyTjvT7U_qgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0879.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oxot1WDgf7c/WYcRYgdM3JI/AAAAAAAAv1c/sgFEZaRkJb8Z8dBw_UJP98OyTjvT7U_qgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0879.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ArxHf8Y5uc/WYcRhplj81I/AAAAAAAAv1k/DYj-MhxOJe8oymEEwZ6TwfZt_1kpUMiJACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0881.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ArxHf8Y5uc/WYcRhplj81I/AAAAAAAAv1k/DYj-MhxOJe8oymEEwZ6TwfZt_1kpUMiJACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0881.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After three hours of slow going, we finally emerged out of worst of the thorny forests. The peak was still elusive, but we got much needed breather. And the team has to be applauded for sticking through patiently and joking (for ex: <i>game of thorns</i>) during the climb instead of complaining.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cswwG01bbZA/WYcRoPh_7xI/AAAAAAAAv1s/IqmsaJW8ISsGw5ThzaDsnUmRovUo2uQCQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0886.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cswwG01bbZA/WYcRoPh_7xI/AAAAAAAAv1s/IqmsaJW8ISsGw5ThzaDsnUmRovUo2uQCQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0886.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cdcTlAZcEO4/WYcRwm2WSaI/AAAAAAAAv10/4Zc-B03Yso8l6crk0ItcimwR8DIli17xACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0902.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cdcTlAZcEO4/WYcRwm2WSaI/AAAAAAAAv10/4Zc-B03Yso8l6crk0ItcimwR8DIli17xACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0902.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L50Oe887BbY/WYcR5SFeqkI/AAAAAAAAv18/P-FXxWbZrg8BOc5uaNIJI174VvG0CEgnwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0910.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L50Oe887BbY/WYcR5SFeqkI/AAAAAAAAv18/P-FXxWbZrg8BOc5uaNIJI174VvG0CEgnwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0910.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We still had another hour of climb left. More than negotiating around thorns, we faced with finding the right way up. For few minutes we worried we would have to go back the same way when we hit a dead end. But we were able to find another way and finally we could see the path to peak clearly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bG0WkafE6mo/WYcSC3pjReI/AAAAAAAAv2E/S6bMaouV4GgDYZjZsBlUoRtZ37r2eYUcQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0919.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bG0WkafE6mo/WYcSC3pjReI/AAAAAAAAv2E/S6bMaouV4GgDYZjZsBlUoRtZ37r2eYUcQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0919.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jvpXOIZEghQ/WYcSJtU2OiI/AAAAAAAAv2M/Ep5HHjMR3BglsDpUXlyb_T_rs2PpF67VACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0926.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jvpXOIZEghQ/WYcSJtU2OiI/AAAAAAAAv2M/Ep5HHjMR3BglsDpUXlyb_T_rs2PpF67VACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0926.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CuMUKW_C-Sg/WYhVghbg4RI/AAAAAAAAv2c/zpKK76lTnnohzxvZgVs7DJ4K9EVhFT2RQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0929.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CuMUKW_C-Sg/WYhVghbg4RI/AAAAAAAAv2c/zpKK76lTnnohzxvZgVs7DJ4K9EVhFT2RQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0929.JPG" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BO07vKyOhls/WYhVkUD-HXI/AAAAAAAAv2k/tEqvYqc3IT4H0nqeuOYox1IWfd-n7cokwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0933.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BO07vKyOhls/WYhVkUD-HXI/AAAAAAAAv2k/tEqvYqc3IT4H0nqeuOYox1IWfd-n7cokwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0933.JPG" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The neat temple at top is nestled amidst largely bare rocky surface. A few tiny ponds with lotus and a narrow split is re-purposed to serve as water well. It was quite windy and lovely view all around. After bit of rest, we sat for tasty potluck. Special thanks to those who brought sandwich, stuffed chappathi, fruits and sweets. Monkeys surrounded us but compared to other places weren't overly attacking.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UobhFkGpass/WYhVv_1WEPI/AAAAAAAAv2s/af3Dn7oYMUUpCRTpaY-6zS2TwwfSIVXWgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0954.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UobhFkGpass/WYhVv_1WEPI/AAAAAAAAv2s/af3Dn7oYMUUpCRTpaY-6zS2TwwfSIVXWgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0954.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Afterwards, we descended a short distance to rest under the shade of a tree. Given heavy lunch and difficulties while climbing up, we weren't in a hurry to go back. Lots of chitter-chatter and leg-pulling.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RKIpOaJcXew/WYhWdQ2RjgI/AAAAAAAAv24/0dLDtvtjv8EI1XlomLGEhpqZ2Z8L0sOCACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0962.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RKIpOaJcXew/WYhWdQ2RjgI/AAAAAAAAv24/0dLDtvtjv8EI1XlomLGEhpqZ2Z8L0sOCACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0962.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gJrivgYrkDo/WYhWhIDBh4I/AAAAAAAAv3A/qkurHLJqcGcyxXb4hnfNT5MfHfTeFD2iACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0966.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gJrivgYrkDo/WYhWhIDBh4I/AAAAAAAAv3A/qkurHLJqcGcyxXb4hnfNT5MfHfTeFD2iACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0966.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HBdX8MwxNZg/WYhWnNIEOJI/AAAAAAAAv3I/ePUF4MyF15wUBlObLy6weWMkb4sakKwcwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0969.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HBdX8MwxNZg/WYhWnNIEOJI/AAAAAAAAv3I/ePUF4MyF15wUBlObLy6weWMkb4sakKwcwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0969.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As we took the <i>normal</i> stairs way back, it was lot easier and quicker - just about 40 minutes to reach base (including breaks). We were running short of water but then we hadn't expected the morning difficulties. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-80oyDmdoUFs/WYhZvdYZ8ZI/AAAAAAAAv3U/IHjpQfha20kMpjk-6mYFH5d3Ws86nkgJwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0979.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-80oyDmdoUFs/WYhZvdYZ8ZI/AAAAAAAAv3U/IHjpQfha20kMpjk-6mYFH5d3Ws86nkgJwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0979.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vr4GQF0bAY/WYhZyHkWUAI/AAAAAAAAv3c/S9Uu31FpHg4cEivqZdbiGlgeX3I5Z58GACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0983.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vr4GQF0bAY/WYhZyHkWUAI/AAAAAAAAv3c/S9Uu31FpHg4cEivqZdbiGlgeX3I5Z58GACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0983.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the base, we settled down for refreshing ourselves. The villagers must have thought us mad to be scaling the hill from the other side and asked why didn't we take the stairs built for this purpose. Nevertheless, we were lent water and given directions for reaching the highway.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ujNzpWhg080/WYhax2_6sBI/AAAAAAAAv3w/l-XDQfNZgXkgGYiq6O5804esZxcyw518wCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0989.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ujNzpWhg080/WYhax2_6sBI/AAAAAAAAv3w/l-XDQfNZgXkgGYiq6O5804esZxcyw518wCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0989.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ztm6T3GXQpw/WYha4yx3RHI/AAAAAAAAv34/8FLqIn9_xxkLbrObRoCghmI0OiUmWAwBQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0992.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ztm6T3GXQpw/WYha4yx3RHI/AAAAAAAAv34/8FLqIn9_xxkLbrObRoCghmI0OiUmWAwBQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0992.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xbsPOl8po3E/WYha9SJxzmI/AAAAAAAAv4A/vpkuVA5qkcskn0IlU-g5K_0T84dI0cdTQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0995.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xbsPOl8po3E/WYha9SJxzmI/AAAAAAAAv4A/vpkuVA5qkcskn0IlU-g5K_0T84dI0cdTQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0995.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before starting back, we had feedback session under the shade. Everybody expressed joy and amazement for finishing the trek, especially the newbies. Few nice suggestions were made as well. We filled our bottles and were on our way. Turned out that the remaining distance to highway was always around 2-3 KMs irrespective of whom we asked along the way. Our exhaustion showed and we took breaks often.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nkWi1q_0_4I/WYhbEvIAW6I/AAAAAAAAv4I/04T0_cZb2nQsJTe4ZdQ2IGdyvclv8UwDgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1001.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nkWi1q_0_4I/WYhbEvIAW6I/AAAAAAAAv4I/04T0_cZb2nQsJTe4ZdQ2IGdyvclv8UwDgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_1001.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Finally, we did reach the highway and spent another hour refreshing and eating along with a dose of <i>anthakshiri</i>. It was getting dark but everybody was happy to rest, eat and then go instead of rushing back. We were lucky to get a bus to stop for us, which took us till Hosur. There yet again we bought water before catching bus back to Bengaluru.</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-4960212138113168112017-07-28T18:39:00.001+05:302017-07-28T18:39:33.330+05:30Exploring Kaurava Kunda - 23 July 2017<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">It seems trekking with <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/">BTC</a> always has something new in store, despite having visited that place before. Be it Horaginabetta or Madhugiri or Antaragange etc, there's something fresh and enjoyable experience. And as ever, the group was wonderful, sharing lunch, snide jokes, cheeky pics, memorable games and so on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This time everybody was on time and by 9AM we had started our climb. Weather wasn't as pleasant as previous week on Madhugiri climb, but cloudy enough that Sun burn was only for a few minutes. The very start set the tone for the day - circuitous. See the below route map(courtesy Rajesh) for a hint (the quarry is visible too - upper right)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4KWhviAvJ3k/WXnNB-YDs3I/AAAAAAAAvX8/DbumDwm0HHEp4Wp2VKUvq5iSNN5ecdzFQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/RouteMap_KauravaKunda.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4KWhviAvJ3k/WXnNB-YDs3I/AAAAAAAAvX8/DbumDwm0HHEp4Wp2VKUvq5iSNN5ecdzFQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/RouteMap_KauravaKunda.png" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6NwWexYYko/WXsbX0DdoXI/AAAAAAAAvYU/VxWRHUQSWw4ss9sW8f7l6htuMVTJtoqYwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0475.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6NwWexYYko/WXsbX0DdoXI/AAAAAAAAvYU/VxWRHUQSWw4ss9sW8f7l6htuMVTJtoqYwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0475.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-2dvCxXrog/WXsbezeytFI/AAAAAAAAvYc/kJLBlhRkKEIgdinOdMMFWCVpuyzJz8f6QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0478.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-2dvCxXrog/WXsbezeytFI/AAAAAAAAvYc/kJLBlhRkKEIgdinOdMMFWCVpuyzJz8f6QCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0478.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After getting down at Chikkaballapur, we hired two autos to reach Hariharpur village. Due to some confusion, we ended up going past the village and stopped near the quarry. The locals were very helpful and soon we were climbing towards Kaurava Kunda.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0u3IqcO7MI/WXsblN8JtSI/AAAAAAAAvYk/oXonkKcJQ5UAIGt3mRAyqV_yPXxATGtIQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0486.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0u3IqcO7MI/WXsblN8JtSI/AAAAAAAAvYk/oXonkKcJQ5UAIGt3mRAyqV_yPXxATGtIQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0486.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkOceLE2e88/WXsb0q17gaI/AAAAAAAAvYs/XkkS55bKzEsME5E7u-tKyWJdSJ7WV-6ygCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0498.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkOceLE2e88/WXsb0q17gaI/AAAAAAAAvYs/XkkS55bKzEsME5E7u-tKyWJdSJ7WV-6ygCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0498.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Soon I was able to make sense of our direction and once we reached the temple and saw the village below, we were doubly sure that we were on the right track. We took a break here and had our introductory session. Many newbies to BTC as usual and all very pumped up for the climb. Taking advantage of my prior experience, I warned them all of thorny bushes and particularly noted to be prepared for lot of exploration :P</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yLRjNak_1H4/WXscB_ytCwI/AAAAAAAAvY0/xesVt4qp1aI26uV5YO9v_I3Xpu7vZm6JgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0506.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yLRjNak_1H4/WXscB_ytCwI/AAAAAAAAvY0/xesVt4qp1aI26uV5YO9v_I3Xpu7vZm6JgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0506.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cOunwO_Gd94/WXscEZoeSmI/AAAAAAAAvY8/pF_yc2vv3VkpNpAsMcDf4Njc735FRUPVQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0508.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cOunwO_Gd94/WXscEZoeSmI/AAAAAAAAvY8/pF_yc2vv3VkpNpAsMcDf4Njc735FRUPVQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0508.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Turned out that my concerns were all for naught :D Organizer Dinesh and over enthusiastic Sandeep happily found way ahead from whichever path we took. Apoorva, first trek as organizer, took up the responsibility of guiding first timers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VhEVWw_387U/WXscUROGr9I/AAAAAAAAvZE/BjbV3Fc_-qIEKOV89q1yhwOkq7M-lLoGACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0539.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VhEVWw_387U/WXscUROGr9I/AAAAAAAAvZE/BjbV3Fc_-qIEKOV89q1yhwOkq7M-lLoGACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0539.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ya8RAU-W3_Y/WXscZizLUcI/AAAAAAAAvZM/wu02MvfGPKwSE5wEKvdI6FzPMesMaChVwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0544.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ya8RAU-W3_Y/WXscZizLUcI/AAAAAAAAvZM/wu02MvfGPKwSE5wEKvdI6FzPMesMaChVwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0544.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Various large boulders provided perfect opportunities for breaks and photo sessions. With three cameras and various smartphones in attendance, there sure wasn't any shortage of photographers. Throughout the day, all sorts of <i>innovative</i> trickery were tried out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nxiisnd24Q0/WXscxljFLVI/AAAAAAAAvZU/nqsF-pUXi9YzjKbs8HAvoIXVyMXEEVFZQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0545.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nxiisnd24Q0/WXscxljFLVI/AAAAAAAAvZU/nqsF-pUXi9YzjKbs8HAvoIXVyMXEEVFZQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0545.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvsT4NI-xSc/WXsc1FF2z6I/AAAAAAAAvZc/FutYFOJAeW8oyin7ygXSe4VMxCGxslgOgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0552.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvsT4NI-xSc/WXsc1FF2z6I/AAAAAAAAvZc/FutYFOJAeW8oyin7ygXSe4VMxCGxslgOgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0552.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A short while later, we took another break, having found a way to reach a false peak despite doubts of way ahead. We had to take roundabout way to climb up and so came to wide open space with the other peak visible in the distance. To our right, on flatter rock ending in a cliff, was a ruins - just about a feet of rectangular foundation walls. We decided to check it out on our way back.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15_8jkkfKcg/WXseF28xzeI/AAAAAAAAvZs/-Ak82TsuUPQuNbJ0cmsGHJkBKESXhAtLQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0557.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15_8jkkfKcg/WXseF28xzeI/AAAAAAAAvZs/-Ak82TsuUPQuNbJ0cmsGHJkBKESXhAtLQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0557.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UGAMG6VMDwI/WXseLAy5ROI/AAAAAAAAvZ0/5LQITPTLDIYPxJsA4xWCwp51Pvvqi_6gQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0561.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UGAMG6VMDwI/WXseLAy5ROI/AAAAAAAAvZ0/5LQITPTLDIYPxJsA4xWCwp51Pvvqi_6gQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0561.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hills all around us and depending on the angle, we could see the Nandi range of hills in the distance. Few aeroplanes flew overhead too. And just about 90 minutes since start, we had reached first peak.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FpKtX9CcLss/WXsfHdz98YI/AAAAAAAAvaA/OdUiiUR-4xwRUFalTpVTFju4YS9aWlgtQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0567.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FpKtX9CcLss/WXsfHdz98YI/AAAAAAAAvaA/OdUiiUR-4xwRUFalTpVTFju4YS9aWlgtQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0567.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rUGOs3RXv_U/WXsfNiSqYTI/AAAAAAAAvaI/9WpKgLu0vLkFUGj85qamB-nZZdWNuq94ACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0572.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rUGOs3RXv_U/WXsfNiSqYTI/AAAAAAAAvaI/9WpKgLu0vLkFUGj85qamB-nZZdWNuq94ACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0572.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yQA4464K7yg/WXsfXINFv2I/AAAAAAAAvaQ/ynMCPMsnNXQDj7OdNIft26TMyKunlcULgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0589.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yQA4464K7yg/WXsfXINFv2I/AAAAAAAAvaQ/ynMCPMsnNXQDj7OdNIft26TMyKunlcULgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0589.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After about half an hour of rest and exploration (and of course photo shoots) we started our way down to try reaching the other peak. We simply thought there was a short-cut on the side and yet again we did find a way. It was trickier too and was slow going till we reached the grasslands between the two peaks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gyDVMkL0pfU/WXsgbEzY9DI/AAAAAAAAvac/WrRNkpsHdnUHhwdDRzYRTg-Uw7G5cdW7gCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0603.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gyDVMkL0pfU/WXsgbEzY9DI/AAAAAAAAvac/WrRNkpsHdnUHhwdDRzYRTg-Uw7G5cdW7gCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0603.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VlzwtW2TI-4/WXsghQFwAhI/AAAAAAAAvao/ZdpCgKywMGkAA995f9_DP32xkZTczOM-wCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0604.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VlzwtW2TI-4/WXsghQFwAhI/AAAAAAAAvao/ZdpCgKywMGkAA995f9_DP32xkZTczOM-wCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0604.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yshrpr2mHQk/WXsghbHwIuI/AAAAAAAAvas/hYOBGIx8N7ETgcZxgAA5x9XZ5XQdJdKWACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0605.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yshrpr2mHQk/WXsghbHwIuI/AAAAAAAAvas/hYOBGIx8N7ETgcZxgAA5x9XZ5XQdJdKWACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0605.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yet again we ventured ahead without knowing the way ahead. And we somehow found a path to the peak. This turned out more interesting than first peak - tricky slope, squeezing in narrow gap, thorny bushes and so on. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4dfuQtQeSuk/WXsmpP0eeQI/AAAAAAAAva8/zW3SnQvjzFkCMaKhE-y899MbqgIg4GlJACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0613.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4dfuQtQeSuk/WXsmpP0eeQI/AAAAAAAAva8/zW3SnQvjzFkCMaKhE-y899MbqgIg4GlJACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0613.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D19YVXSucAU/WXsmtHDP8gI/AAAAAAAAvbE/FGe_CdVU5W8zVjgbhT8pWzuLxk2ZYuhcgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0616.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D19YVXSucAU/WXsmtHDP8gI/AAAAAAAAvbE/FGe_CdVU5W8zVjgbhT8pWzuLxk2ZYuhcgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0616.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AF8HwTCzPYw/WXsm2QnJHqI/AAAAAAAAvbM/eakmyeL8NBETU3CBNegL1TDa8KaSqwcCACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0619.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AF8HwTCzPYw/WXsm2QnJHqI/AAAAAAAAvbM/eakmyeL8NBETU3CBNegL1TDa8KaSqwcCACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0619.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HKXTCFJ3rMw/WXsnBp65CzI/AAAAAAAAvbU/2woHDhQmT2cKZG1ZEhPlSTA03WjfEwiHQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0624.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HKXTCFJ3rMw/WXsnBp65CzI/AAAAAAAAvbU/2woHDhQmT2cKZG1ZEhPlSTA03WjfEwiHQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0624.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-90lMZLnL_Ew/WXsnFQikAsI/AAAAAAAAvbc/yQRArjJb0NckisWGGG2ivBYHK13qaRY7ACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0628.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-90lMZLnL_Ew/WXsnFQikAsI/AAAAAAAAvbc/yQRArjJb0NckisWGGG2ivBYHK13qaRY7ACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0628.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We had scaled both peaks so quickly that it wasn't even noon yet. After bit of rest, we gathered around to play ping-pong. A good game to get familiar with each other's name. So, everyone has to pick someone else's name. When that name is called, the person has to say ping, the one next has to say pong and next one has to say a name apart from assigned name. Failing to do the appropriate task leads to one strike. On third strike, the person is called upon to dance or sing or say a dialogue and so on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xeFih6NoIoo/WXsr5stLIII/AAAAAAAAvbs/BCKocwaEIJs87SiCCWcFPOsT0xW5OZ3KgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0641.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xeFih6NoIoo/WXsr5stLIII/AAAAAAAAvbs/BCKocwaEIJs87SiCCWcFPOsT0xW5OZ3KgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0641.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For lunch, we climbed down a short way to sit around a grass clearing. Sun played hide and seek with clouds. Potluck was awesome as usual. And as is BTC policy, we were careful to not litter and took our garbage back for disposal. Before moving on, we took more photos.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--2DR6y-RgtE/WXssBmzN-9I/AAAAAAAAvb0/CUj2DYS2EeY4fcJpCdpEeA5y4Ig7inQJgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0657.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--2DR6y-RgtE/WXssBmzN-9I/AAAAAAAAvb0/CUj2DYS2EeY4fcJpCdpEeA5y4Ig7inQJgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0657.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kNC8H0c71M4/WXssHYnUbzI/AAAAAAAAvb8/fOBkSmJJOaEfFN8y_pdQcSgVhS6NyGQdgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0659.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kNC8H0c71M4/WXssHYnUbzI/AAAAAAAAvb8/fOBkSmJJOaEfFN8y_pdQcSgVhS6NyGQdgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0659.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our next stop was the ruins. Yet again, we had taken a different route to reach the grasslands between the two peaks. And another tricky slope to negotiate. From there, it was easy hike to the ruins.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FIdQ3--g6Y8/WXssPAKNTPI/AAAAAAAAvcE/D1QKIvUnlPE20hYt3CKpsO1RWbdIsAnPwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0674.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FIdQ3--g6Y8/WXssPAKNTPI/AAAAAAAAvcE/D1QKIvUnlPE20hYt3CKpsO1RWbdIsAnPwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0674.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnMLnLQ0f1c/WXs1GHi7PXI/AAAAAAAAvco/gtXd3nqnehIDa0yrZriK4EIO1IsgKFV5QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0707.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnMLnLQ0f1c/WXs1GHi7PXI/AAAAAAAAvco/gtXd3nqnehIDa0yrZriK4EIO1IsgKFV5QCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0707.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was also a great spot to take pic with both peaks in view. After bit of breather, we played another game - courtesy first timers. So, in this game everybody stands in a circle. One would point anyone else in circle along with saying 'He' aloud. The pointed person has to squat saying 'Ha' and those on either side has to swing arms over that person saying 'Who'. And then next person is pointed and so on. The game is fast paced and anyone failing their task is eliminated until last two are declared winners.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1kuCR0W_u8I/WXs03vOokCI/AAAAAAAAvcY/vaJUTB67jPUFvwYnNb4dXABomr_FLO3-QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0686.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1kuCR0W_u8I/WXs03vOokCI/AAAAAAAAvcY/vaJUTB67jPUFvwYnNb4dXABomr_FLO3-QCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0686.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WiZgvNSjq7g/WXs05IzpUWI/AAAAAAAAvcg/AZQPZ7cdUpk7lJE2SkLNcUMR9tKQ1WhhQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0687.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WiZgvNSjq7g/WXs05IzpUWI/AAAAAAAAvcg/AZQPZ7cdUpk7lJE2SkLNcUMR9tKQ1WhhQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0687.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before moving on, the photo shoot trickery continued here as well. Jumping and dabs were involved :P Rest of the way down had more of our exploration - a different route than we took coming up. Mainly because of bushes and the fact that the temple was hidden from view until the last bend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YDOFWOwM-II/WXs2KHl8f5I/AAAAAAAAvc0/SYGBk8TJOx0ocOARZQfILgr_Ibm3KsWvgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0719.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YDOFWOwM-II/WXs2KHl8f5I/AAAAAAAAvc0/SYGBk8TJOx0ocOARZQfILgr_Ibm3KsWvgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0719.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p5b0uBpdjk0/WXs2NyQiFAI/AAAAAAAAvc8/E1aUEhU6kIUzFdZQ4c1zOZbf6OE8i47fwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0722.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p5b0uBpdjk0/WXs2NyQiFAI/AAAAAAAAvc8/E1aUEhU6kIUzFdZQ4c1zOZbf6OE8i47fwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0722.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The villagers were helpful again, gave us water and told us that we were likely to catch a bus soon from the main road. While waiting, we had our feedback session. Everybody had praise for the wonderful trek and some suggestions as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1iWzD3cuztI/WXs2THWz2KI/AAAAAAAAvdE/LT4k5VztRgMJ1Si55ZUwLAWad5onB69RQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0724.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1iWzD3cuztI/WXs2THWz2KI/AAAAAAAAvdE/LT4k5VztRgMJ1Si55ZUwLAWad5onB69RQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0724.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dT79beXkNJo/WXs2Zg4YHbI/AAAAAAAAvdM/Y5WHMvJO50gqJjlWyTZrH3VNPxcFaYDgACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0728.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dT79beXkNJo/WXs2Zg4YHbI/AAAAAAAAvdM/Y5WHMvJO50gqJjlWyTZrH3VNPxcFaYDgACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0728.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We managed to hire a goods vehicle to Chikkaballapur before bus came our way. Before catching bus back to Bengaluru, we had sugarcane juice, tea, water, etc to refresh ourselves a bit. Our total expenses including BTC fund came to Rs 200. Can't ask for better way to spend a weekend :)</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-27859331881049520572017-07-20T10:40:00.001+05:302017-07-20T10:40:25.227+05:30Easy Peasy Madhugiri - 15 July 2017<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">A trek after long long time. As usual it was with <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/">BTC</a>. And as usual it turned out awesome day spent with bunch of enthusiastic, energetic and <i>encouraging</i> trekkers. We assembled at Majestic and took a bus to Madhugiri. We were behind schedule a bit but we more than made up with our speed trek and had time to spare when we came back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FoGg3bL3f2s/WXA44rgUecI/AAAAAAAAu_c/qjBN0dFZoB4x6pJ2RAONefiU6ciUTIcXwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0353.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FoGg3bL3f2s/WXA44rgUecI/AAAAAAAAu_c/qjBN0dFZoB4x6pJ2RAONefiU6ciUTIcXwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0353.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before starting, as usual we had introductory round, forming a <i>straight</i> circle. There were four S[au]ndeeps and we took to assigning a number to our names :P Many first timers with BTC and some first time trekkers as well! And our organizers Srikanth and Dinesh kept their promise - everybody did finish the trek and enjoyed a lot.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kXyyzznv0jc/WXA5FzHIrhI/AAAAAAAAu_k/i_h72HQ0t_8Y1yng5_Z4ybu2mEN727lFQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0357.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kXyyzznv0jc/WXA5FzHIrhI/AAAAAAAAu_k/i_h72HQ0t_8Y1yng5_Z4ybu2mEN727lFQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0357.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H3mUEP9p7Jk/WXA5HFQIsQI/AAAAAAAAu_s/M_Mn1MFWP-4YUGilj3y3KsCnyqjIs8zEQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0358.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H3mUEP9p7Jk/WXA5HFQIsQI/AAAAAAAAu_s/M_Mn1MFWP-4YUGilj3y3KsCnyqjIs8zEQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0358.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was a cloudy day and that helped a lot throughout the day. We started briskly, despite few joking complaints about steps and carved footholds. The ruins of fort made for many photo-shoot opportunities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AvHOlFLgGKw/WXA5NLSVxzI/AAAAAAAAu_0/sy2MKAnfliAT7t2aezrbIqX8hz5whlndgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0363.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AvHOlFLgGKw/WXA5NLSVxzI/AAAAAAAAu_0/sy2MKAnfliAT7t2aezrbIqX8hz5whlndgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0363.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xd3chkjTBnE/WXA5TZcWhSI/AAAAAAAAu_8/WCAPTfvrFqEXRWpOmp9xOwXMRkH4kUHkACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0367.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xd3chkjTBnE/WXA5TZcWhSI/AAAAAAAAu_8/WCAPTfvrFqEXRWpOmp9xOwXMRkH4kUHkACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0367.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Many other trekkers were descending while we had just started, must have come very early in the morning. We took breaks often to get acclimatized with the climb. Our organizers co-ordinated very well to accommodate both newbies and experienced trekkers. Group photos helped too :P</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPd-W9IBGoA/WXA5a2Bp9kI/AAAAAAAAvAE/Ai3SXOQ9LWoKSmTTEto_Xz2iFozqOPWkQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0372.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPd-W9IBGoA/WXA5a2Bp9kI/AAAAAAAAvAE/Ai3SXOQ9LWoKSmTTEto_Xz2iFozqOPWkQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0372.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EQJLk_d5Lq8/WXA5fZW3zgI/AAAAAAAAvAM/TVEpYTSU3XsufZDZ3wamnJneeO7NG1j1wCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0379.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EQJLk_d5Lq8/WXA5fZW3zgI/AAAAAAAAvAM/TVEpYTSU3XsufZDZ3wamnJneeO7NG1j1wCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0379.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mQeRL_49XJI/WXA5nwGQpyI/AAAAAAAAvAU/LruJujndQb4wYnks6YR7MuSSnUbyWMP9gCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0393.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mQeRL_49XJI/WXA5nwGQpyI/AAAAAAAAvAU/LruJujndQb4wYnks6YR7MuSSnUbyWMP9gCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0393.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ewqh3edSEH4/WXA5rLQ3wyI/AAAAAAAAvAc/m-ilb3E_vRATLs8oevoWlBjhs2zqx7ilQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0396.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ewqh3edSEH4/WXA5rLQ3wyI/AAAAAAAAvAc/m-ilb3E_vRATLs8oevoWlBjhs2zqx7ilQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0396.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">About an hour, came the first of false peaks. As well as the most dangerous portion of trek, be it going up or coming down. Compared to railing support when I first came here in 2010, it was better now. But one stretch in middle was missing with just a flimsy rope. Again, Dinesh and Srikanth were at the forefront in helping. While everybody else <i>encouraged</i> (in the form of funny jokes and morbid endings)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uQuP009THFg/WXA5xMszcCI/AAAAAAAAvAk/2bk4cxvP0-EPUe1bsJDNJyxIR-UWlkLOACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0397.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uQuP009THFg/WXA5xMszcCI/AAAAAAAAvAk/2bk4cxvP0-EPUe1bsJDNJyxIR-UWlkLOACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0397.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-duSHloeaVQU/WXA54hcyXFI/AAAAAAAAvAs/i8ztzjIAl-kSPIkBl6yhDk83sNFHIeNFgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0407.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-duSHloeaVQU/WXA54hcyXFI/AAAAAAAAvAs/i8ztzjIAl-kSPIkBl6yhDk83sNFHIeNFgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0407.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">With the weather being so pleasant, we didn't need much in terms energy replenishment as just simple rest for few minutes before trudging ever higher. As everybody mingled and kept consistent chatter, we didn't much worry about when we would reach peak.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AVgKRycsWy4/WXA5-B-gLQI/AAAAAAAAvA0/XNhMSH2YwwUPbvsLaSdl8sLqcSZKhvcLwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0412.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AVgKRycsWy4/WXA5-B-gLQI/AAAAAAAAvA0/XNhMSH2YwwUPbvsLaSdl8sLqcSZKhvcLwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0412.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CaHk4dElEI0/WXA6CApCKrI/AAAAAAAAvA8/QcARHk-uIew1NxcIevlMyxaGzJpZkeyaQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0417.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CaHk4dElEI0/WXA6CApCKrI/AAAAAAAAvA8/QcARHk-uIew1NxcIevlMyxaGzJpZkeyaQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0417.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9D5m51W_WhM/WXA6J5aCKeI/AAAAAAAAvBE/D1VJzBApalk21gf-6XhSu45zFeOwej0ZwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0423.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9D5m51W_WhM/WXA6J5aCKeI/AAAAAAAAvBE/D1VJzBApalk21gf-6XhSu45zFeOwej0ZwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0423.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After another hour of climb and two more false peaks, we reached the top. We also met many more trekkers coming back. Before going to explore the ruined fort at top, we spent some time at entrance relaxing and various ways to take photo.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GBIcfTpXlVI/WXA6QgDXk8I/AAAAAAAAvBM/TlPAINHjBEoKUtc5caqmnWXlHMakApuhQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0433.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GBIcfTpXlVI/WXA6QgDXk8I/AAAAAAAAvBM/TlPAINHjBEoKUtc5caqmnWXlHMakApuhQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0433.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c2TUKoTNpRo/WXA6pSkg4AI/AAAAAAAAvBU/NfYf6D7s_ccspczuPzPAHFrhOp1WGuQqgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0445.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c2TUKoTNpRo/WXA6pSkg4AI/AAAAAAAAvBU/NfYf6D7s_ccspczuPzPAHFrhOp1WGuQqgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0445.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Spot the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proscopiidae">Proscopiidae</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Potluck is the best lunch to have on treks. So many different dishes to choose from (even if many did bring tamarind rice, they each had different flavor :P) and topped by sweets and biscuits (Thanks in large to Sandeep number 4, alias <i>Kesar</i> Sandeep)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tFcM_fttqME/WXA6wYh8EhI/AAAAAAAAvBc/s2RJ2QufjygsvdBIqsvgG4_Rp_xESh-agCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0446.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tFcM_fttqME/WXA6wYh8EhI/AAAAAAAAvBc/s2RJ2QufjygsvdBIqsvgG4_Rp_xESh-agCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0446.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UQP3cW1t150/WXA69p5bFgI/AAAAAAAAvBk/dQVmdUhCxvs_Gd54I3toj3ZZMwA_nQztQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0463.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UQP3cW1t150/WXA69p5bFgI/AAAAAAAAvBk/dQVmdUhCxvs_Gd54I3toj3ZZMwA_nQztQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0463.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We played a round of Dumb Charades (no teams, just fun) before starting our way back (prompted by light rain in the distance). As usual, descending was trickier and took time to adjust to going down sideways for better balance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysGLImhlEmY/WXA7FJcdlrI/AAAAAAAAvBs/gmtRtS4QaGg7SXkQEhpn6L7lMsZuudOoACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0469.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysGLImhlEmY/WXA7FJcdlrI/AAAAAAAAvBs/gmtRtS4QaGg7SXkQEhpn6L7lMsZuudOoACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0469.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U5Rxh8585k4/WXA7KtyrluI/AAAAAAAAvB0/2u7n2QzbdWYjujl4Mw9w1C2O7yGtc8UtwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0472.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U5Rxh8585k4/WXA7KtyrluI/AAAAAAAAvB0/2u7n2QzbdWYjujl4Mw9w1C2O7yGtc8UtwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0472.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The dangerous section was even more fun coming down. Shorter people found it easier to navigate while taller ones had to lean and take each step carefully. This section alone would make this trek memorable for years to come.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b8aDl0kBKNM/WXA7OzvHmyI/AAAAAAAAvB8/qsSNnryaIecPYc0ZllpbggrMZv619XDkgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0474.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b8aDl0kBKNM/WXA7OzvHmyI/AAAAAAAAvB8/qsSNnryaIecPYc0ZllpbggrMZv619XDkgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0474.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As we neared the base, rain decided to bless us too. Even the slight drizzle made negotiating the steps trickier. Saved by 15 minutes I would say :P Before going to bus stand, we had our feedback session. Everybody had positive things to say and some suggestions as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After refreshing and relaxing a bit, we caught a bus back to Bengaluru despite some of us having to stand. We kept up our chatter to pass time. At Dasarahalli many got down to catch metro instead of spending more time stuck in traffic. All in all, so good to be back trekking :)</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-2445434715868138442016-12-09T21:06:00.000+05:302016-12-09T21:06:18.154+05:30Serene trek to Bandaje Arbi - 3,4 Dec 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yet another two day trek with <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/">BTC</a>, yet another place from to-do list flagged :) The trek started on wrong foot - rain and replacement tempo traveler driver (leading to delay and fitful sleep from loud music). But rest of the trip had everything going for us - from cool weather to snake encounters, from delicious home food to being entertained by kids, from falls to shopping western ghats specialties and visiting temple.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8rNMcZUxYkM/WEq72PQ_jHI/AAAAAAAAuik/lLFcWIdH-3UuGeXM4zEvszC72l0sV1jIwCK4B/s1600/IMG_0650.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8rNMcZUxYkM/WEq72PQ_jHI/AAAAAAAAuik/lLFcWIdH-3UuGeXM4zEvszC72l0sV1jIwCK4B/s320/IMG_0650.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CwqCMMfNtmk/WEq77p5zsrI/AAAAAAAAuis/zG_7NODOFjcDjsFkoGUX66Dwhwd0YthdQCK4B/s1600/IMG_0646.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CwqCMMfNtmk/WEq77p5zsrI/AAAAAAAAuis/zG_7NODOFjcDjsFkoGUX66Dwhwd0YthdQCK4B/s320/IMG_0646.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We reached around 8 AM on Saturday morning, freshened up as quick as possible and gobbled as many idlis (with super tasty chutney and sambhar) as possible. Our organizers, Chaitanya and Sushma, discussed plans for day ahead and made a minor change compared to their previous trips. Meanwhile, us photographers got busy trying to capture all the beautiful flowers around our wonderful homestay. Weather had followed us from Bengaluru and I predicted a cloudy day while those who had come previously were dreading a sunny day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c0TuYvt7i6k/WEq8DB5SYwI/AAAAAAAAui0/bWsNCxUGK8g2m5fKfvJRHkO7Wo5QaGZ3wCK4B/s1600/IMG_0687.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c0TuYvt7i6k/WEq8DB5SYwI/AAAAAAAAui0/bWsNCxUGK8g2m5fKfvJRHkO7Wo5QaGZ3wCK4B/s320/IMG_0687.JPG" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ygagQYiEEas/WEq8IBbTadI/AAAAAAAAui8/W81ku-BFAwAgH3guaVhyu8WOmeO-RrAAwCK4B/s1600/IMG_0695.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ygagQYiEEas/WEq8IBbTadI/AAAAAAAAui8/W81ku-BFAwAgH3guaVhyu8WOmeO-RrAAwCK4B/s320/IMG_0695.JPG" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">About half an hour journey (jeep and a car) took us to starting point of our climb. We had got packed lunch from home stay. On the way we also purchased snacks as well as ordering insane number of chilli bhajjis to munch after returning.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7uE3sRAP8nc/WEq8XPjHiOI/AAAAAAAAujE/S3aV6NVOTLU2-g-HqUPmj4TL12eXn24RgCK4B/s1600/IMG_0707.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7uE3sRAP8nc/WEq8XPjHiOI/AAAAAAAAujE/S3aV6NVOTLU2-g-HqUPmj4TL12eXn24RgCK4B/s320/IMG_0707.JPG" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WIjgyvt6x8A/WEq8ckQQE3I/AAAAAAAAujM/18W0RVZ6SqgtyrKZRhO8RiFGV2KwPXLRACK4B/s1600/IMG_0722.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WIjgyvt6x8A/WEq8ckQQE3I/AAAAAAAAujM/18W0RVZ6SqgtyrKZRhO8RiFGV2KwPXLRACK4B/s320/IMG_0722.JPG" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The minor change of plans was that we went to Ranibagilu view point first. As we were late in starting the trek, it would have been dark while returning. Had a clear view of surrounding hills and we took turns to lie down near cliff edge to savor the thick and colorful forest below. And photos of course. This was just a bit of detour and we then continued on to join the path to Bandaje falls.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pPfZsgDXvDQ/WEq8l06chMI/AAAAAAAAujU/hfFVbo2TTJEv0dMYxRZQ7zZiI3WXNDG0ACK4B/s1600/IMG_0726.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pPfZsgDXvDQ/WEq8l06chMI/AAAAAAAAujU/hfFVbo2TTJEv0dMYxRZQ7zZiI3WXNDG0ACK4B/s320/IMG_0726.JPG" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2qDGsFBsFSQ/WEq8uKVCyRI/AAAAAAAAujc/p-_6bEZc26AT3GYHGwBy4wr9trObDtx2wCK4B/s1600/IMG_0733.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2qDGsFBsFSQ/WEq8uKVCyRI/AAAAAAAAujc/p-_6bEZc26AT3GYHGwBy4wr9trObDtx2wCK4B/s320/IMG_0733.JPG" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The starting trail was one of the two forest sections (where some of us managed to get leech bites). Thanks to cloudy day, we made good pace with not many breaks. Outside the forest sections, it was series of rolling grassy hills, with excellent views all around. To our left were hills with ruined fort walls while we our path led to falls. Plenty of wild flowers and insects as well to keep us photographers busy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6cUc34YIdJo/WEq80l6790I/AAAAAAAAujk/d_3vPBym2sIGakYrlt2jR7jvh_JYKGKTwCK4B/s1600/IMG_0742.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6cUc34YIdJo/WEq80l6790I/AAAAAAAAujk/d_3vPBym2sIGakYrlt2jR7jvh_JYKGKTwCK4B/s320/IMG_0742.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TI_wiocZwIE/WEq86VThsxI/AAAAAAAAujs/bH1WhZRFl_kDXwnJotN0fm8en-JBgP4SwCK4B/s1600/IMG_0747.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TI_wiocZwIE/WEq86VThsxI/AAAAAAAAujs/bH1WhZRFl_kDXwnJotN0fm8en-JBgP4SwCK4B/s320/IMG_0747.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r0ByTUnAtAo/WEq890cjbhI/AAAAAAAAuj0/3UUR_m8VHgICZyfNjp8QRTe8JXElwdMkQCK4B/s1600/IMG_0748.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r0ByTUnAtAo/WEq890cjbhI/AAAAAAAAuj0/3UUR_m8VHgICZyfNjp8QRTe8JXElwdMkQCK4B/s320/IMG_0748.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SgfmejlSigE/WEq9IqPvBYI/AAAAAAAAuj8/6HYJpZnby-M2SNm6Lu_xGTMXZss6vYpAQCK4B/s1600/IMG_0789.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SgfmejlSigE/WEq9IqPvBYI/AAAAAAAAuj8/6HYJpZnby-M2SNm6Lu_xGTMXZss6vYpAQCK4B/s320/IMG_0789.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U5osm4YOJ_g/WEq9O0Rov4I/AAAAAAAAukE/riMCk00TTgUsqL0ykRF-3_RRnWtcbsyoACK4B/s1600/IMG_0812.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U5osm4YOJ_g/WEq9O0Rov4I/AAAAAAAAukE/riMCk00TTgUsqL0ykRF-3_RRnWtcbsyoACK4B/s320/IMG_0812.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Occasionally, it would drizzle a bit, but nothing too threatening to get out ponchos out. More downhill than uphill meant we were only too happy to keep going, while dreading a bit about returning :P Our biggest break was perhaps about 5-10 minutes spent to click group photos on a short hill with plenty of jutting rocks/boulders.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UK1yqbSSHvg/WEq9eIV1_3I/AAAAAAAAukM/ygdlFgQ40s8SIUCtkoP8qvXRoO15TaUyACK4B/s1600/IMG_0871.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UK1yqbSSHvg/WEq9eIV1_3I/AAAAAAAAukM/ygdlFgQ40s8SIUCtkoP8qvXRoO15TaUyACK4B/s320/IMG_0871.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aNF_K3P5M7I/WEq9mIBG-BI/AAAAAAAAukU/L1MD0Bx3kMY5PTvpOUOjqc0UZ_wUAAyYgCK4B/s1600/IMG_0901.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aNF_K3P5M7I/WEq9mIBG-BI/AAAAAAAAukU/L1MD0Bx3kMY5PTvpOUOjqc0UZ_wUAAyYgCK4B/s320/IMG_0901.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2t1zcFel81c/WEq9svQaXGI/AAAAAAAAukc/ukgE53YmWYgd3tywjVZhg20D7-kcgdeUQCK4B/s1600/IMG_0916.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2t1zcFel81c/WEq9svQaXGI/AAAAAAAAukc/ukgE53YmWYgd3tywjVZhg20D7-kcgdeUQCK4B/s320/IMG_0916.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">About 20 minutes past 1 PM (around 2:30 hours of trekking) we reached the falls formed by Netravathi river. Compared to last year, less water given scant rain this November. We spent a bit of time by the cliff, taking photos and trying to see the full length of the falls.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mn66GXJOwhs/WErGyUyGspI/AAAAAAAAuks/EShQlHTT9P0tZPbGLDdSBq9Oqd8zRNztACK4B/s1600/IMG_0943.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mn66GXJOwhs/WErGyUyGspI/AAAAAAAAuks/EShQlHTT9P0tZPbGLDdSBq9Oqd8zRNztACK4B/s320/IMG_0943.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7VCkBcicJ-M/WErG5pyQoYI/AAAAAAAAuk0/0tAsVpm74gMDoK0H2v3ojwMZVmUcgsG8gCK4B/s1600/IMG_0948.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7VCkBcicJ-M/WErG5pyQoYI/AAAAAAAAuk0/0tAsVpm74gMDoK0H2v3ojwMZVmUcgsG8gCK4B/s320/IMG_0948.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--UjfEiVgrEU/WErHGFcHv2I/AAAAAAAAuk8/slrRxPA-l8U74nfxX2NxNypa1kNrUiL2wCK4B/s1600/IMG_0980.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--UjfEiVgrEU/WErHGFcHv2I/AAAAAAAAuk8/slrRxPA-l8U74nfxX2NxNypa1kNrUiL2wCK4B/s320/IMG_0980.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then we walked back short distance to sit by the river for lunch. Few went to take a dip in the cold water. Drizzled returned and it looked like it would rain steadily but it fizzled out. While we were eating, another group arrived - they had trekked up from the other side. Our local guides went to have a chat while we discussed about the possibilities of climbing up from that side ourselves next time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IkN4FzEV_JY/WErHMwzlnyI/AAAAAAAAulE/KQpvhb6HioYL6kHNG6owPweYWfy-O2-RgCK4B/s1600/IMG_1001.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IkN4FzEV_JY/WErHMwzlnyI/AAAAAAAAulE/KQpvhb6HioYL6kHNG6owPweYWfy-O2-RgCK4B/s320/IMG_1001.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CFPcUG7vzOs/WErHT-zcTXI/AAAAAAAAulM/bNIzCnw-p1ILoWg5s2opfsVr3q1DoXr7QCK4B/s1600/IMG_1014.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CFPcUG7vzOs/WErHT-zcTXI/AAAAAAAAulM/bNIzCnw-p1ILoWg5s2opfsVr3q1DoXr7QCK4B/s320/IMG_1014.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w5X-KXZBR44/WErHYs5uoxI/AAAAAAAAulU/1J5ctvvftSc62FM7GA7b72qbvVWqGjzkgCK4B/s1600/IMG_1018.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w5X-KXZBR44/WErHYs5uoxI/AAAAAAAAulU/1J5ctvvftSc62FM7GA7b72qbvVWqGjzkgCK4B/s320/IMG_1018.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After heavy lunch, the climb back was the toughest part that day. As was the norm, Vishal and the two local guides were way ahead in front while the rest of us were on their own pace. In an attempt to put the difficult stretch behind, I too kept climbing steadily and was soon out of hearing distance. Came to know afterwards that I (and some more of us) missed a chance to see python in the wild. Naveen had inadvertently stepped on it and Chaitanya managed to spot it. Sushma and others tried to catch attention of those in front (even did snake dance) without success.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nZdDZ17Gaog/WErHfM9tmzI/AAAAAAAAulc/QNnOGry4j0YjYTPLBDuzwRAJ4lCwMGa5gCK4B/s1600/IMG_1033.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nZdDZ17Gaog/WErHfM9tmzI/AAAAAAAAulc/QNnOGry4j0YjYTPLBDuzwRAJ4lCwMGa5gCK4B/s320/IMG_1033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZkrUJdh0k8/WErHmR3LIGI/AAAAAAAAulk/DnRpJ1eQWxEI2H9j8z3_70gIsE4Vi4AaQCK4B/s1600/IMG_1045.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZkrUJdh0k8/WErHmR3LIGI/AAAAAAAAulk/DnRpJ1eQWxEI2H9j8z3_70gIsE4Vi4AaQCK4B/s320/IMG_1045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DpV2lVH96bw/WErHu0H_h1I/AAAAAAAAuls/_Q5rcaps2iwkcOrBr15sHcJ-2Ehw9xyvQCK4B/s1600/IMG_1073.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DpV2lVH96bw/WErHu0H_h1I/AAAAAAAAuls/_Q5rcaps2iwkcOrBr15sHcJ-2Ehw9xyvQCK4B/s320/IMG_1073.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We took breaks often during the steep climbs. Thanks to generous members, we had chocolates to up our energy levels. Another hour of trekking brought us to the fort ruins. Along the way, our local guides spotted and pointed us herd of bison grazing on a distant hill. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HaI0scPOonE/WErH9I1BpDI/AAAAAAAAul0/6FBDeb6U3tMiPLWB-QsZsfsBL4c5nb6iACK4B/s1600/IMG_1094.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HaI0scPOonE/WErH9I1BpDI/AAAAAAAAul0/6FBDeb6U3tMiPLWB-QsZsfsBL4c5nb6iACK4B/s320/IMG_1094.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fh9XbAayoJs/WErIANKkxsI/AAAAAAAAul8/rfKGxcv_JEE11vsQPsCSjMoYkDH4tg0_ACK4B/s1600/IMG_1097.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fh9XbAayoJs/WErIANKkxsI/AAAAAAAAul8/rfKGxcv_JEE11vsQPsCSjMoYkDH4tg0_ACK4B/s320/IMG_1097.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aggsVT1NAzQ/WErIJqXdgdI/AAAAAAAAumE/RswHOT7Dyiw0gOqmg68XAETAcEuXPM2nwCK4B/s1600/IMG_1107.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aggsVT1NAzQ/WErIJqXdgdI/AAAAAAAAumE/RswHOT7Dyiw0gOqmg68XAETAcEuXPM2nwCK4B/s320/IMG_1107.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Id6F5sVK80/WErIO0zl05I/AAAAAAAAumM/X3xFfWxdHWgIEAKy0dHiy0nbNAXRczy8wCK4B/s1600/IMG_1116.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Id6F5sVK80/WErIO0zl05I/AAAAAAAAumM/X3xFfWxdHWgIEAKy0dHiy0nbNAXRczy8wCK4B/s320/IMG_1116.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The short climb to one end of fort was devoid of any well worn path (from the way we were coming, there was good way while going back) and the little rain in the day was good enough to make it trickier. We relaxed a while and then made a round around the walls, stopping here and there to take in wide and vast walls in hills nearby as well as for group pics. As we were on our way back, we happened to spot shed skin of a lengthy snake.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-37mvylGn1fk/WErIuyDskrI/AAAAAAAAumU/C5CwiOSd2LAP8j0jfzkO3MaCS1tID2BHACK4B/s1600/IMG_1125.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-37mvylGn1fk/WErIuyDskrI/AAAAAAAAumU/C5CwiOSd2LAP8j0jfzkO3MaCS1tID2BHACK4B/s320/IMG_1125.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eTINTogV-MM/WErIvonMLwI/AAAAAAAAumc/YaAaf983FEc3RWCj7qPEBtsdvc4jtfpmQCK4B/s1600/IMG_1128.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eTINTogV-MM/WErIvonMLwI/AAAAAAAAumc/YaAaf983FEc3RWCj7qPEBtsdvc4jtfpmQCK4B/s320/IMG_1128.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-POGRuxUYvq4/WErI1i0oxkI/AAAAAAAAumk/D_qMlPuCOikv_gPIHjwaLH-tJVIE9RrSQCK4B/s1600/IMG_1137.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-POGRuxUYvq4/WErI1i0oxkI/AAAAAAAAumk/D_qMlPuCOikv_gPIHjwaLH-tJVIE9RrSQCK4B/s320/IMG_1137.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dPeOdoUWEj4/WErI4XKnG7I/AAAAAAAAums/fzXJz7SO7W4ptG_d_XzM03VuEZMiLxC-QCK4B/s1600/IMG_1143.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dPeOdoUWEj4/WErI4XKnG7I/AAAAAAAAums/fzXJz7SO7W4ptG_d_XzM03VuEZMiLxC-QCK4B/s320/IMG_1143.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It took us another 40 minutes of easier trek to reach our vehicles. Despite starting late in the morning, we had all done pretty well to reach back without needing to bring out our torches. After reaching home stay, we all freshened up a bit and tucked into parceled chilli bhajjis (was lacking bit of salt, we made do with onions and masala powder)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then we had about an hour of absolute gold in terms of entertainment. The two kids were back home for weekend after winning medals in sports day. One studying in 2nd and the other in 4th. But the teacher acting show they put up around the warmth of camp fire was worthy of top awards. From mannerisms to scolding to appointing class monitor, they had remarkable eye for detail and spot on spontaneous response despite our good attempts to troll and trip them. Vijaya was good too, acting as student (real life teacher)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then it was time for delicious dinner. By the time we could eat no more, it was past 9 PM. After dinner, few went to bed and while some of us played few rounds of Uno. Chaitanya had got two packs of them :) The younger sister paired up with Shweta while the elder got immersed in playing games on Rasik's iphone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9XzNtRdbTQw/WErNNbHdV4I/AAAAAAAAum4/3OSpzj-exHEGIXFYWBFNe4knl2yQ7V5zQCK4B/s1600/IMG_1146.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9XzNtRdbTQw/WErNNbHdV4I/AAAAAAAAum4/3OSpzj-exHEGIXFYWBFNe4knl2yQ7V5zQCK4B/s320/IMG_1146.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pWSpWXQKTAc/WErNTaMakbI/AAAAAAAAunA/l-OQcYxqmEk26W4h3oYPc8O3Tr4MGhavACK4B/s1600/IMG_1153.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pWSpWXQKTAc/WErNTaMakbI/AAAAAAAAunA/l-OQcYxqmEk26W4h3oYPc8O3Tr4MGhavACK4B/s320/IMG_1153.JPG" width="240" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rpmpFWU3YHQ/WErNW5EL_CI/AAAAAAAAunI/07yDcT90rtgHdoYzEoVizG3gnMCrLDc7wCK4B/s1600/IMG_1157.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rpmpFWU3YHQ/WErNW5EL_CI/AAAAAAAAunI/07yDcT90rtgHdoYzEoVizG3gnMCrLDc7wCK4B/s320/IMG_1157.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wfP_wzXhKa8/WErNcI1iITI/AAAAAAAAunQ/428T1uEHoQgd5z_lkGnyViLBNl0dChx-gCK4B/s1600/IMG_1168.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wfP_wzXhKa8/WErNcI1iITI/AAAAAAAAunQ/428T1uEHoQgd5z_lkGnyViLBNl0dChx-gCK4B/s320/IMG_1168.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">With weather unlikely to be clear for sunrise, we were asked to be ready by 6:30 AM for morning walk. That meant enough time for much needed blissful sleep in cozy blankets. In the morning, we had another round of photo shoot of flowers around - the lotus taking top honors. 5 of us (along with the younger kid and Rocky the dog) went for walk first and the rest followed after they had all freshened up. It was good, to say the least with coffee plantations and home stays along the way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Semiya for breakfast. Have I mentioned home stay food was tasty yet? About 15 minutes past 10 AM, we started for dip in another falls. Weather turned sunny, driving away morning chill and the gradual increase in temperature making a cold bath that more inviting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yz6aO6psU34/WErNlMKNJ5I/AAAAAAAAunY/6tNThqjci343THk3mvZ-uki-CA5eZuPNwCK4B/s1600/IMG_1198.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yz6aO6psU34/WErNlMKNJ5I/AAAAAAAAunY/6tNThqjci343THk3mvZ-uki-CA5eZuPNwCK4B/s320/IMG_1198.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lghk_naVjXQ/WErNpJJmfxI/AAAAAAAAung/EV2om7KY9Jg5dw7VAIKamtQGvliWdieSQCK4B/s1600/IMG_1199.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lghk_naVjXQ/WErNpJJmfxI/AAAAAAAAung/EV2om7KY9Jg5dw7VAIKamtQGvliWdieSQCK4B/s320/IMG_1199.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lFhuT5txRSg/WErN12-2rQI/AAAAAAAAuno/OLDSr2dAK4I92-HoVDU95MLmqrAT_R2NQCK4B/s1600/IMG_1208.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lFhuT5txRSg/WErN12-2rQI/AAAAAAAAuno/OLDSr2dAK4I92-HoVDU95MLmqrAT_R2NQCK4B/s320/IMG_1208.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But first we went to another view point. This was like opposite of view point from previous day, which along with fort was visible. Nearby was a hanging house, well made but closed. Few kids came on bicycles to have a look as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XbAXHjUAB0Q/WErOE4AxSgI/AAAAAAAAunw/P3Gm89d4XygTPvxNFV57JKtCLTPnygYiwCK4B/s1600/IMG_1241.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XbAXHjUAB0Q/WErOE4AxSgI/AAAAAAAAunw/P3Gm89d4XygTPvxNFV57JKtCLTPnygYiwCK4B/s320/IMG_1241.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wkyf0NGOO2s/WErOLEuUpaI/AAAAAAAAun4/h4vOArcV9nMc2FpZ-FxQAjaIUzFUMXmDgCK4B/s1600/IMG_1255.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wkyf0NGOO2s/WErOLEuUpaI/AAAAAAAAun4/h4vOArcV9nMc2FpZ-FxQAjaIUzFUMXmDgCK4B/s320/IMG_1255.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TLiHRzRqgPU/WErOUPVhtvI/AAAAAAAAuoA/9vQYfYSIodAD9Ow67tNnN-ZKWji9ZOyWwCK4B/s1600/IMG_1270.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TLiHRzRqgPU/WErOUPVhtvI/AAAAAAAAuoA/9vQYfYSIodAD9Ow67tNnN-ZKWji9ZOyWwCK4B/s320/IMG_1270.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cguq7gCyVuw/WErOdpdezsI/AAAAAAAAuoI/pvHC8MY5iiUn06cr1X--CND426msc1BUwCK4B/s1600/IMG_1279.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cguq7gCyVuw/WErOdpdezsI/AAAAAAAAuoI/pvHC8MY5iiUn06cr1X--CND426msc1BUwCK4B/s320/IMG_1279.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then we went back short distance to start our trek to the falls. The kids and Rocky had joined us for this excursion as well. It was a 45 minute trek, much more challenging than previous day with steeper paths, crossing stream, narrow at some spots, littered with leaves most of the way, few leeches and the local guides cutting away branches to make way. Along the way we took a short detour to see another of the falls, taller than our destination but not easily accessible.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i1PM8YlPXfY/WErOhC23G6I/AAAAAAAAuoQ/pQQ0jJrV_ZQm5rAOuS0cg7L3XOgRb4w3ACK4B/s1600/IMG_1286.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i1PM8YlPXfY/WErOhC23G6I/AAAAAAAAuoQ/pQQ0jJrV_ZQm5rAOuS0cg7L3XOgRb4w3ACK4B/s320/IMG_1286.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iFrDh75g1Vc/WErOlDP5kYI/AAAAAAAAuoY/nD7CbgRkcpMY5QFIbMT9yAxCqvvYJRcWgCK4B/s1600/IMG_1292.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iFrDh75g1Vc/WErOlDP5kYI/AAAAAAAAuoY/nD7CbgRkcpMY5QFIbMT9yAxCqvvYJRcWgCK4B/s320/IMG_1292.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Water flow was forceful enough for good body massage. The mini-pool formed by rocks was pretty muddy but we tried swimming/floating nonetheless :P The kids were naturally over energetic and we took care to not let wet their head too much (instructions from their Mom)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After returning, we had our final tasty meal. Rasam was simply too good. The sunny afternoon meant our wet clothes dried nicely while we played hours of Uno. This time all of us joined and the blank cards (or eggs) provided much fun and twists. Before leaving the home stay, we took group pics. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x9v0rwY2yrs/WErO9UNoD0I/AAAAAAAAuog/WLBXXCeDZjwh2i5t9YpfUqSrmTpnV43BgCK4B/s1600/IMG_1316.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x9v0rwY2yrs/WErO9UNoD0I/AAAAAAAAuog/WLBXXCeDZjwh2i5t9YpfUqSrmTpnV43BgCK4B/s320/IMG_1316.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RaDzX7rdZig/WErO-8yistI/AAAAAAAAuoo/VdzhQ8uSrwQw1FkGgx5nxe2_0wGbXO0oACK4B/s1600/IMG_1318.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RaDzX7rdZig/WErO-8yistI/AAAAAAAAuoo/VdzhQ8uSrwQw1FkGgx5nxe2_0wGbXO0oACK4B/s320/IMG_1318.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1gtXvujfbr8/WErPEta3lQI/AAAAAAAAuow/I2Iwo3nTqhUKGjhP3Ipxnocz-PmQfQKwgCK4B/s1600/IMG_1346.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1gtXvujfbr8/WErPEta3lQI/AAAAAAAAuow/I2Iwo3nTqhUKGjhP3Ipxnocz-PmQfQKwgCK4B/s320/IMG_1346.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C6eLwXsSPAQ/WErPLbR8p5I/AAAAAAAAuo4/_jZ9QvBAYjA7w-qU9Cs2305HvMeOlOVrgCK4B/s1600/IMG_1348.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C6eLwXsSPAQ/WErPLbR8p5I/AAAAAAAAuo4/_jZ9QvBAYjA7w-qU9Cs2305HvMeOlOVrgCK4B/s320/IMG_1348.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then went to their coffee shop, about 15 minutes drive away. In fading light, we first went amidst tea plantation on opposite side of road for more snaps. Then a round of tea/coffee while deciding what all items to purchase - gulkand, tea, coffee, snacks, dry fruits, etc. Given the cash crunch, our organizers took note of how much everybody bought for and paid combined amount. Then later, our accounts were settled online by adjusting with already paid trip expenses.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Past 7 PM, we started for Horanadu, to visit </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annapoorneshwari_Temple"><span style="font-size: large;">Annapoorneshwari t</span><span style="font-size: large;">emple</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. Three of us opted to roam around while the rest of us went to temple and then for free dinner (which was good too). Then before starting back to Bengaluru, we had feedback session. Some suggestions and complaints on TT but overall everybody had enjoyed the trip and home stay. A must visit place for western ghat lovers :)</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-66956329515727144942016-12-07T18:42:00.003+05:302016-12-07T18:42:41.630+05:30Go Green (Maintenance) at Chele Kere Lake - 19 Nov 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">It reflects the sad state of Bengaluru lakes when half the people I asked direction to Chele Kere lake (from Kalyan nagar bus stop) didn't know there was a lake nearby. Some even gave me odd looks. Fortunately, those who knew guided me in right direction and I reached the spot for maintenance drive conducted by <a href="http://saytrees.org/">SayTrees</a> and supported by <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/">BTC</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VZH9sv4esnc/WEgJaIfPpJI/AAAAAAAAug8/q-U6U-vjvKg0R6YvwfGPqxRvBbg2LatnACK4B/s1600/IMG_9607.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VZH9sv4esnc/WEgJaIfPpJI/AAAAAAAAug8/q-U6U-vjvKg0R6YvwfGPqxRvBbg2LatnACK4B/s320/IMG_9607.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had attended plantation drives in preceding months, but it was a first with regards to maintenance. I had come just as organizers had finished giving instructions to a good turn out of volunteers. So, after taking a few pics, I caught up with Arun to guide me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It primarily consisted of four steps:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Loosen the soil around the planted saplings as well as removing the overgrown weeds</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Make bund around the sapling for water to stay</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Add dry leaves (already brought to the place in huge bags) so that water evaporation is slowed, and later acts as manure</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Watering - two buckets per sapling</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HBdwaXN9Gu0/WEgJpaR3Z1I/AAAAAAAAuhE/q523W7LdLzYFxVkFHRUM-OUxNL5YdNQrgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9619.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HBdwaXN9Gu0/WEgJpaR3Z1I/AAAAAAAAuhE/q523W7LdLzYFxVkFHRUM-OUxNL5YdNQrgCK4B/s320/IMG_9619.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SWgKfrVDmVo/WEgJ_y2_hEI/AAAAAAAAuhU/vNfhsMkb_mISlgv7g8YTmDXOEC2070HYQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9639.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SWgKfrVDmVo/WEgJ_y2_hEI/AAAAAAAAuhU/vNfhsMkb_mISlgv7g8YTmDXOEC2070HYQCK4B/s320/IMG_9639.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KLzT5bPeOa8/WEgJyEOhEcI/AAAAAAAAuhM/eEH4HlS0XXkawlZqvPvHtwwXJkJlvDRMQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9630.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KLzT5bPeOa8/WEgJyEOhEcI/AAAAAAAAuhM/eEH4HlS0XXkawlZqvPvHtwwXJkJlvDRMQCK4B/s320/IMG_9630.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tQaFhHw2E4U/WEgKGKrWzjI/AAAAAAAAuhg/cRU7_ncWG84i9Ic96OY42LBrVfziVLvQACK4B/s1600/IMG_9610.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tQaFhHw2E4U/WEgKGKrWzjI/AAAAAAAAuhg/cRU7_ncWG84i9Ic96OY42LBrVfziVLvQACK4B/s320/IMG_9610.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Despite a sunny day, we went about our task enthusiastically. It helped that usually two worked together at a sapling, taking turns with first three steps. When a few rows had been done, about half the volunteers switched to forming human chain and watering while others continued with remaining saplings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mimv_SNla6I/WEgKQe4x7eI/AAAAAAAAuho/t3JirC2bIDE1Tu4VH2ieYYFJ9uTPbvJtwCK4B/s1600/IMG_9612.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mimv_SNla6I/WEgKQe4x7eI/AAAAAAAAuho/t3JirC2bIDE1Tu4VH2ieYYFJ9uTPbvJtwCK4B/s320/IMG_9612.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeRKn0tK4v8/WEgKiysNZYI/AAAAAAAAuh4/3HKKkxUxPZcjInSMae7uUzOM0bSP7iosgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9635.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeRKn0tK4v8/WEgKiysNZYI/AAAAAAAAuh4/3HKKkxUxPZcjInSMae7uUzOM0bSP7iosgCK4B/s320/IMG_9635.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A few of us, while taking a break from watering/digging, filled water bottles and passed around to thirsty volunteers. It was as seamless a drive as I've been part of. Everybody co-operating and switching tasks to keep going.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n_--cHbd__c/WEgKW45qf5I/AAAAAAAAuhw/nVqmOfYViZE-tEEX-GvrNUMeRRBd_f9vACK4B/s1600/IMG_9628.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n_--cHbd__c/WEgKW45qf5I/AAAAAAAAuhw/nVqmOfYViZE-tEEX-GvrNUMeRRBd_f9vACK4B/s320/IMG_9628.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After first round of watering, a member from SayTrees interviewed a few of us on live video. It was interesting to hear different views and reasons. We then had some snacks and fruits to energize ourselves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--8_rKpASYcU/WEgKpSqiLdI/AAAAAAAAuiA/tsuNGbv5dPgmTgpYAXuDewG8lPPMmTVwACK4B/s1600/IMG_9645.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--8_rKpASYcU/WEgKpSqiLdI/AAAAAAAAuiA/tsuNGbv5dPgmTgpYAXuDewG8lPPMmTVwACK4B/s320/IMG_9645.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It became harder as the day became hotter but we kept at it and around noon every sapling had been taken care and watered. We did deserve the applause we gave ourselves ;) And of course, before dispersing, we took plenty of group photos.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WJQLvG5qtkw/WEgKuWw-aJI/AAAAAAAAuiI/-s8tI3e7HwoacGcFwMYBTD0fHOfiLOUrACK4B/s1600/IMG_9644.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WJQLvG5qtkw/WEgKuWw-aJI/AAAAAAAAuiI/-s8tI3e7HwoacGcFwMYBTD0fHOfiLOUrACK4B/s320/IMG_9644.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-10460180327519554012016-11-05T16:57:00.000+05:302016-11-05T16:57:35.498+05:30Book review - Oct 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Plenty of books read in October. Not including part of series read towards end of month, will include in next month post ;)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> -------------------------------</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Rating scheme is based on <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/">goodreads</a>:</span><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">★</span> liked it</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">★</span> really liked it</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">★</span> amazing</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">-------------------------------</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13555073-the-screaming-staircase">The Screaming Staircase</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Fun read but slow going until the end</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Lockwood's actions sometimes seemed too much like Sherlock Holmes, inexplicable but logical once explained</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Lucy and George are able side kicks (leads me to wonder why 2 male and 1 female groups are most common than other way around? Harry Potter and Riyria Revelations immediately spring to mind...)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/40323-dragonriders-of-pern">Dragonriders of Pern</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Nice read and quite liked the way Dragons were portrayed (not to forget fire lizards :P). A TV series adaptation would be great!<br /><br />The writing improved as series progressed, but still certain passages were difficult to comprehend and minor characters were difficult to keep track of.<br /><br />Seemed like many concepts and plots were an inspiration for series like Harry Potter, Aether of Night, Uprooted, Mistborn, etc</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17377584-the-lady-astronaut-of-mars">The Lady Astronaut of Mars</a><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span></span> </span></span><br />
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<table border="0" cellspacing="1" id="myReview" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Lato, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; width: 100%px; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody>
<tr align="justify"><td colspan="1" style="font-family: Lato,"Helvetica Neue",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Nice little emotional story, liked the details...</span></td></tr>
<tr class="no_border feedFooterReview" id="update_comment_stuff_Review1788473755" style="border: none;"></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20519011-the-accidental-highwayman">The Accidental Highwayman</a><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The premise is good, execution could have been better to up the pacing<br /><br />I liked the writing a lot and the small things that author brings up in a good way. The feeling of 18th/19th century is palpable, much like the classics but written for most parts in modern usage of language.<br /><br />Illustrations were nice as well and memorable characters makes it a satisfying read. The ending leaves you wanting for more, but can't find information on release dates of sequels</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bonus Links</span></span></b></span></div>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/books/comments/56zy63/have_you_ever_read_a_passage_so_good_it_made_you/"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have you ever read a passage so good it made you think the author wrote the entire novel just to convey that thought?</span></span></a></li>
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<span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Book title links and images courtesy <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/">goodreads</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.in/2016/02/book-review-jan-2016.html">Book review - Jan 2016</a> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/03/book-review-feb-2016.html">Book review - Feb 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/04/book-review-mar-2016.html">Book review - Mar 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/05/book-review-apr-2016.html">Book review - Apr 2016</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/06/book-review-may-2016.html">Book review - May 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/07/book-review-june-2016.html" target="_blank">Book review - June 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/08/book-review-july-2016.html">Book review - July 2016</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/09/book-review-aug-2016.html">Book review - Aug 2016</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/11/book-review-sep-2016.html">Book review - Sep 2016</a></span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-50040488010247182532016-11-05T16:38:00.001+05:302016-11-05T16:38:28.059+05:30Book review - Sep 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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A slow month which included reading a short story, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9278806-the-aether-of-night">Unpublished book</a> and slow-paced novel.<br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Rating scheme is based on <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/">goodreads</a>:</span><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">★</span> liked it</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">★</span> really liked it</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">★</span> amazing</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8562526-firstborn">Firstborn</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eYzaELBwi7w/WB28qAJQr4I/AAAAAAAAtnI/7JnKXXqcTWsrd6LHQ2eOAycf7ZTk7HaTgCLcB/s1600/Firstborn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eYzaELBwi7w/WB28qAJQr4I/AAAAAAAAtnI/7JnKXXqcTWsrd6LHQ2eOAycf7ZTk7HaTgCLcB/s320/Firstborn.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<table border="0" cellspacing="1" id="myReview" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Lato, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; width: 100%px; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody>
<tr align="justify"><td colspan="1" style="font-family: Lato,"Helvetica Neue",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Quick read and a cool ending.</span></td></tr>
<tr class="no_border feedFooterReview" id="update_comment_stuff_Review1756600366" style="border: none;"></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19161852-the-fifth-season">The Fifth Season</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">World building is great, riddled with tiny clues that'll make sense probably on second read-through</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Quite a slow read though, too many terms thrown about (and not so memorable even after finishing the book)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Not sure if I will pick up second book yet (heard it is similarly slow)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bonus Links</span></span></b></span></div>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/books/comments/4rahhm/i_never_appreciated_the_depth_of_oh_the_places/"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Reading books to kids is fun and eye opening :)</span></span></a></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">-------------------------------</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Book title links and images courtesy <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/">goodreads</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.in/2016/02/book-review-jan-2016.html">Book review - Jan 2016</a> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/03/book-review-feb-2016.html">Book review - Feb 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/04/book-review-mar-2016.html">Book review - Mar 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/05/book-review-apr-2016.html">Book review - Apr 2016</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/06/book-review-may-2016.html">Book review - May 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/07/book-review-june-2016.html" target="_blank">Book review - June 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/08/book-review-july-2016.html">Book review - July 2016</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/09/book-review-aug-2016.html">Book review - Aug 2016</a> </span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-87571221658693835502016-10-12T20:51:00.000+05:302016-10-12T20:51:01.328+05:30Siddarabetta - 9 Oct 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another weekend, another trek with <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/">BTC</a> :) This time to Siddarabetta, one among the various hills near Tumkur. But easily reachable via public transport. So, we mini-bus for us 20 trekkers. As usual, our meeting point was Shantala Silk house, opposite Terminal 3, Majestic. Most convenient to reach by Metro :P</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aBZKMZPfHOw/V_4ExDdtjyI/AAAAAAAAtg0/6RGmWtLtuLc-cCHC-PbUBm8O7J3QrTbeACK4B/s1600/IMG_9236.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aBZKMZPfHOw/V_4ExDdtjyI/AAAAAAAAtg0/6RGmWtLtuLc-cCHC-PbUBm8O7J3QrTbeACK4B/s320/IMG_9236.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vp5MtSI-RVk/V_4Ey3g8akI/AAAAAAAAtg8/SRKwav6Fkz4JHTXc7SySuA8JeXFl9cUowCK4B/s1600/IMG_9240.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vp5MtSI-RVk/V_4Ey3g8akI/AAAAAAAAtg8/SRKwav6Fkz4JHTXc7SySuA8JeXFl9cUowCK4B/s320/IMG_9240.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lzDpLlPoMGg/V_4JlOPZmdI/AAAAAAAAthI/95QWiYfcjWoOUOnLbDp7hnwNDpqQFkEkgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9245.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lzDpLlPoMGg/V_4JlOPZmdI/AAAAAAAAthI/95QWiYfcjWoOUOnLbDp7hnwNDpqQFkEkgCK4B/s320/IMG_9245.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After we were on our way, we had our introductions followed by a round of Dumb Charades. Some were guessed quick enough, some went on for a agonizingly long time. One was guessed even without acting :O In between, we stopped for breakfast and got lunch packed (Most of us had got fruits and snacks aplenty, some got food from home, so we packed about 10 to be on safer side). We still had time to pass after the game, so with music on, we danced and shouted about.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bWl_rpg5TH8/V_4Jrtz2BOI/AAAAAAAAthQ/-52JKYlpcPoFLJucM-_zXMsFTApQH9KzwCK4B/s1600/IMG_9253.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bWl_rpg5TH8/V_4Jrtz2BOI/AAAAAAAAthQ/-52JKYlpcPoFLJucM-_zXMsFTApQH9KzwCK4B/s320/IMG_9253.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-USeLyWtN4HQ/V_4J0DUjf7I/AAAAAAAAthY/mtTwxzJMU2orNX4mTlYi2I1VzrcgNdHlgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9262.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-USeLyWtN4HQ/V_4J0DUjf7I/AAAAAAAAthY/mtTwxzJMU2orNX4mTlYi2I1VzrcgNdHlgCK4B/s320/IMG_9262.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was a hot day. And steps to climb initially. We took plenty of breaks and hydrated well before we could get used to terrain and conditions. Taking steps all the way up would be boring, so of course we took an alternate path.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--T74KPF-3C8/V_4J8hvTxII/AAAAAAAAthg/IBBTcTqRswEhGRuiMLYfaKBq_dHRlTqEwCK4B/s1600/IMG_9275.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--T74KPF-3C8/V_4J8hvTxII/AAAAAAAAthg/IBBTcTqRswEhGRuiMLYfaKBq_dHRlTqEwCK4B/s320/IMG_9275.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GgS8PAajmFo/V_4KBshApaI/AAAAAAAAtho/b76hXKs0MtIOxt13FvYSva1QfeSnffA5QCK4B/s1600/IMG_9283.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GgS8PAajmFo/V_4KBshApaI/AAAAAAAAtho/b76hXKs0MtIOxt13FvYSva1QfeSnffA5QCK4B/s320/IMG_9283.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PMMfp8SN-VY/V_4KToy2JxI/AAAAAAAAth0/FPKSXCfw0QEfrchBcth9MRFcdD7loH7vQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9297.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PMMfp8SN-VY/V_4KToy2JxI/AAAAAAAAth0/FPKSXCfw0QEfrchBcth9MRFcdD7loH7vQCK4B/s320/IMG_9297.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We immediately liked this path. Steeper to climb than the steps but much better than monotonous steps. We were more exposed to Sun as well, but we took our breaks when needed under the comfort of trees.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f6V-gzkq9f8/V_4KaYOrpRI/AAAAAAAAth8/vXPmGdnxTtMV3zApFr4WLSUSMvpjpjeTgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9314.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f6V-gzkq9f8/V_4KaYOrpRI/AAAAAAAAth8/vXPmGdnxTtMV3zApFr4WLSUSMvpjpjeTgCK4B/s320/IMG_9314.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R5-B_G5Fstg/V_4KifpxihI/AAAAAAAAtiI/dgJ__FjyBQ0lMydz_hpBhudW5uq0cLRoACK4B/s1600/IMG_9321.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R5-B_G5Fstg/V_4KifpxihI/AAAAAAAAtiI/dgJ__FjyBQ0lMydz_hpBhudW5uq0cLRoACK4B/s320/IMG_9321.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">With not much of a path to follow, sometimes we had to wade through bushes, getting scratched from their tiny needles all over our exposed parts of body. For the moment it was fun, but itches for a few days after :D There was a water pipe to refill our water bottles just before we had to wade through series of boulders.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IpOeR6NIvl0/V_4KvVDCx1I/AAAAAAAAtiQ/jF3x9oamDK4LYSe0JeUT6u8GRtiLKOJrgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9335.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IpOeR6NIvl0/V_4KvVDCx1I/AAAAAAAAtiQ/jF3x9oamDK4LYSe0JeUT6u8GRtiLKOJrgCK4B/s320/IMG_9335.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S6WtYK2PRPs/V_4Kz4mC1kI/AAAAAAAAtic/SRIFsTwHR0ctGVoWdLV_5SPuCWPqbrPDQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9345.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S6WtYK2PRPs/V_4Kz4mC1kI/AAAAAAAAtic/SRIFsTwHR0ctGVoWdLV_5SPuCWPqbrPDQCK4B/s320/IMG_9345.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0LQNa5zv-bY/V_4K8IDvFBI/AAAAAAAAtik/9acPWXPocfEVl27fO6NdTp-RJFvMTQJLwCK4B/s1600/IMG_9357.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0LQNa5zv-bY/V_4K8IDvFBI/AAAAAAAAtik/9acPWXPocfEVl27fO6NdTp-RJFvMTQJLwCK4B/s320/IMG_9357.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We took our time and organizers - Vikram and Ameer co-ordinated to find a way. By sheer bad luck, we got split into 11 member on one side and remaining 9 another side (turned out to be right way to reach temple). Among the boulders formed like cave structures, one group took to left and we tried the one straight ahead. We thought we would just go around and meet on the other side. Not to be.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-84QZcXztxI4/V_4LDMG9j1I/AAAAAAAAtis/DQQUTnu199whhsn4xn8kIAV87MSsEqehQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9365.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-84QZcXztxI4/V_4LDMG9j1I/AAAAAAAAtis/DQQUTnu199whhsn4xn8kIAV87MSsEqehQCK4B/s320/IMG_9365.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5uQyd32Vwo0/V_4LHz_c3sI/AAAAAAAAti0/N-QqszLwjvEyKb56b0fly51xmTtRNJe_ACK4B/s1600/IMG_9369.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5uQyd32Vwo0/V_4LHz_c3sI/AAAAAAAAti0/N-QqszLwjvEyKb56b0fly51xmTtRNJe_ACK4B/s320/IMG_9369.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-C5SJy5Hv0/V_4NyEIUsKI/AAAAAAAAtjE/G3PZP3HAwggw7wB6ObzD2_8GDySpTSuJgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9370.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-C5SJy5Hv0/V_4NyEIUsKI/AAAAAAAAtjE/G3PZP3HAwggw7wB6ObzD2_8GDySpTSuJgCK4B/s320/IMG_9370.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Luckily though, organizers got split too. Vikram leading from front was with other group and Ameer co-ordinating from trail end was with us. We were close to carved steps to our right, but we continued climbing on our alternate way. Sudesh had a moment of scare though - slipped on wet patch and escaped unharmed, thanks to bushes. I was dumbstruck watching it close by and moved after Ameer told me. Phew, hope next time I act faster.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f6eXRhMGA74/V_4N5CnNw1I/AAAAAAAAtjM/GyIK2RuzIRY2OkJRs-agAWOeWKNqR95EwCK4B/s1600/IMG_9380.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f6eXRhMGA74/V_4N5CnNw1I/AAAAAAAAtjM/GyIK2RuzIRY2OkJRs-agAWOeWKNqR95EwCK4B/s320/IMG_9380.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mmxCYw_AdFI/V_4N832tOrI/AAAAAAAAtjU/w6VbG5rVTG48odnhlybbeBj6B0aX6J9OQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9392.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mmxCYw_AdFI/V_4N832tOrI/AAAAAAAAtjU/w6VbG5rVTG48odnhlybbeBj6B0aX6J9OQCK4B/s320/IMG_9392.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o5yGw7tF884/V_4OEVh-RaI/AAAAAAAAtjc/g8x-MhvD40AF5OxI1IhQWS0oeo5geWregCK4B/s1600/IMG_9399.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o5yGw7tF884/V_4OEVh-RaI/AAAAAAAAtjc/g8x-MhvD40AF5OxI1IhQWS0oeo5geWregCK4B/s320/IMG_9399.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BON6E47VVUk/V_4OIoD8K3I/AAAAAAAAtjk/2ImpyWhFI0Ij9rwHCimzCiDPwrTxQwnxgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9411.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BON6E47VVUk/V_4OIoD8K3I/AAAAAAAAtjk/2ImpyWhFI0Ij9rwHCimzCiDPwrTxQwnxgCK4B/s320/IMG_9411.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the temple, Ameer and Sandeep went to see if the other group were nearby. We had mobile signal, but were not able to connect with any of their numbers. While waiting, we had oranges and Electral to energize ourselves. Monkeys gave us a hard time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ameer and Sandeep came back with no sign of them, so we decided to move to peak (as per plan, hoping they would reach it either coming after us or some other way).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For a while, we skirted the cliffs with boulders nearby or in our way. Then it was among trees and bushes till the peak.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CVMIZvuSbP8/V_4ORzjYoNI/AAAAAAAAtjs/u963nc9nijYNmUKyKivls3-aeM1OQufewCK4B/s1600/IMG_9429.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CVMIZvuSbP8/V_4ORzjYoNI/AAAAAAAAtjs/u963nc9nijYNmUKyKivls3-aeM1OQufewCK4B/s320/IMG_9429.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xt5CKjvOnGs/V_4OabicsGI/AAAAAAAAtj4/pqFSTb50yGUNaER0fpauJvvFQf3v-WRvQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9441.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xt5CKjvOnGs/V_4OabicsGI/AAAAAAAAtj4/pqFSTb50yGUNaER0fpauJvvFQf3v-WRvQCK4B/s320/IMG_9441.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We were pleasantly surprised by the pretty large open spaces on the peak. Not smoothly continuous though and large portions weren't easily accessible due to height differences.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We took plenty of photos before settling down for lunch with beautiful view all around. Most of the packed lunches were with other group. But we had more than enough fruits and snacks to compensate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A4KdMImDD38/V_4Oe3SAomI/AAAAAAAAtkA/iE7J2Z6REvkZrSqBQYslRkmOWjbQm3g1gCK4B/s1600/IMG_9450.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A4KdMImDD38/V_4Oe3SAomI/AAAAAAAAtkA/iE7J2Z6REvkZrSqBQYslRkmOWjbQm3g1gCK4B/s320/IMG_9450.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0RmBLLLUpc8/V_4OitgHckI/AAAAAAAAtkI/5kLUPQ8qX0YObRpUtTuUGI83LF8sYiVDwCK4B/s1600/IMG_9453.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0RmBLLLUpc8/V_4OitgHckI/AAAAAAAAtkI/5kLUPQ8qX0YObRpUtTuUGI83LF8sYiVDwCK4B/s320/IMG_9453.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H3OgB_UL5Y0/V_4OsbW3gMI/AAAAAAAAtkU/NBWblsRY7UAQ-0tsHZn5JMxvcBJgh5P9QCK4B/s1600/IMG_9480.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H3OgB_UL5Y0/V_4OsbW3gMI/AAAAAAAAtkU/NBWblsRY7UAQ-0tsHZn5JMxvcBJgh5P9QCK4B/s320/IMG_9480.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All the while we kept trying to reach the other group. Soon we connected a few calls (which kept getting cut frequently) and got to know they were still stuck inside caves. We told them our position and said we'll wait for them to come.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TZGgTd38EyQ/V_4PnGQNE1I/AAAAAAAAtkg/F9c3eeRXgWkdqr1XBTBviYDdEv_OZNXjgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9496.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TZGgTd38EyQ/V_4PnGQNE1I/AAAAAAAAtkg/F9c3eeRXgWkdqr1XBTBviYDdEv_OZNXjgCK4B/s320/IMG_9496.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OYBcGNy8POE/V_4Pw1G5dgI/AAAAAAAAtks/Bzzc4UH1jQwug-TZ2vGzpcwOgufLKqy2ACK4B/s1600/IMG_9517.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OYBcGNy8POE/V_4Pw1G5dgI/AAAAAAAAtks/Bzzc4UH1jQwug-TZ2vGzpcwOgufLKqy2ACK4B/s320/IMG_9517.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The wait turned out to be too long though. After resting and <i>masti</i>, we started our way down. Short while later we finally met them coming up. Instead of going to peak, it was decided to go back. First though, we stopped for them to have their lunch. Some of our group had second helping too :P</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jra8qkTfX04/V_4P1WEOYwI/AAAAAAAAtk0/q28u4I-sh0UfS0aSg21KoI1VRzqtiQjUACK4B/s1600/IMG_9525.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jra8qkTfX04/V_4P1WEOYwI/AAAAAAAAtk0/q28u4I-sh0UfS0aSg21KoI1VRzqtiQjUACK4B/s320/IMG_9525.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MuOMkyegKU8/V_4QKzbjOyI/AAAAAAAAtlA/rLseKbPJTV42_ImTUOpYpjKOvYiSYoCsgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9529.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MuOMkyegKU8/V_4QKzbjOyI/AAAAAAAAtlA/rLseKbPJTV42_ImTUOpYpjKOvYiSYoCsgCK4B/s320/IMG_9529.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E3W6Nz9ZnX4/V_4QKx19DpI/AAAAAAAAtlE/9V-T0JOgMPggwwZkKIwE0evrq1Cjc4CDwCK4B/s1600/IMG_9545.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E3W6Nz9ZnX4/V_4QKx19DpI/AAAAAAAAtlE/9V-T0JOgMPggwwZkKIwE0evrq1Cjc4CDwCK4B/s320/IMG_9545.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The boulders and cliffs gave plenty of nice opportunities for clicking profile pics. After reaching the temple, we took the stairs all the way down. We were all pretty quick in descending. Some of us had cucumber with bhel-puri kinda masala mixing - yummy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bftRfcuPLkY/V_4QRQe1StI/AAAAAAAAtlM/ITrYv4ehDL0LjIJFfXKvop7sfghthSJbwCK4B/s1600/IMG_9555.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bftRfcuPLkY/V_4QRQe1StI/AAAAAAAAtlM/ITrYv4ehDL0LjIJFfXKvop7sfghthSJbwCK4B/s320/IMG_9555.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">On the way back, we continued our music with dance for a while. Then about half of us kept on with singing whatever came to mind. Ashish led the way with plenty of odd ones.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kAWZAoKYz_I/V_4QYFE0nmI/AAAAAAAAtlU/XDGyR5Xmc4E-7n2r3a85_Z7JO1WCv_hyQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9572.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kAWZAoKYz_I/V_4QYFE0nmI/AAAAAAAAtlU/XDGyR5Xmc4E-7n2r3a85_Z7JO1WCv_hyQCK4B/s320/IMG_9572.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At Dobbspet, we stopped for refreshments and feedback session. With long way to go yet, some took to sleeping and others passed time with individual discussions and group banters. The day ended with Bengaluru rains making a pleasant weather :)</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-63492780543183885772016-10-08T17:37:00.004+05:302016-10-08T17:39:11.915+05:30Nijagal Betta - 1 Oct 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks to <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/">BTC</a>, yet another hill flagged :) We caught the 7:45 AM passenger train and got down at Dobbspet. As it was Saturday, it was not jam packed and we had few rows to ourselves. No intro or Dumb Charades though, as Channa explained later, he wanted to avoid us being too noisy for fellow passengers and also give members a chance to rest (being very next day to Friday). Even so, people had conversations who felt so and others had a power nap.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DI5ILCVzlMI/V_edDREsv0I/AAAAAAAAs4Y/SY84rs9Nz9QutyairuEkktn1XerwpFHCgCK4B/s1600/IMG_8635.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DI5ILCVzlMI/V_edDREsv0I/AAAAAAAAs4Y/SY84rs9Nz9QutyairuEkktn1XerwpFHCgCK4B/s320/IMG_8635.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BLTRsO8ZYCY/V_edXY-A6uI/AAAAAAAAs4g/HPrA6DMxFJ8xJpJ5CVIoytYaxyAiPK10QCK4B/s1600/IMG_8651.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BLTRsO8ZYCY/V_edXY-A6uI/AAAAAAAAs4g/HPrA6DMxFJ8xJpJ5CVIoytYaxyAiPK10QCK4B/s320/IMG_8651.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We hired couple of share autos at Dobbspet (Dobby comes to mind with the name :P) to take us near the hill (about 3.5 KM). On the way, we stopped for breakfast and packing lunch (the usual spot on Tumkur road, near a junction). With minimizing use of plastic in mind, Channa had asked us to bring lunch boxes, kudos BTC :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Near the base, we had to cross railway tracks and then we had proper intro session. Nice to see many newbies, they all had good words to say at the end of day. Since Channa was lone organizer for the day, he asked me to co-ordinate at back end. No problems, happy to volunteer and helped me click more photos :P especially spotting likely candidates for macro shots with Ashish besides me ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqxvL4AJAt4/V_eejp4R2ZI/AAAAAAAAs4w/2kVWMhM0PcckGJu2B_8cytagyUUqDOFnACK4B/s1600/IMG_8654.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqxvL4AJAt4/V_eejp4R2ZI/AAAAAAAAs4w/2kVWMhM0PcckGJu2B_8cytagyUUqDOFnACK4B/s320/IMG_8654.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OiiNhf5X5ho/V_eem23Tj4I/AAAAAAAAs44/bqE3jA1jAtAFp5ITZ43gDTA5eZD_Dve-ACK4B/s1600/IMG_8657.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OiiNhf5X5ho/V_eem23Tj4I/AAAAAAAAs44/bqE3jA1jAtAFp5ITZ43gDTA5eZD_Dve-ACK4B/s320/IMG_8657.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The initial trail was slippery on grainy soil. The group ahead would wait often for us to catch up. Weather being nice meant good lighting for pics as well as too many breaks were not required. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2zh_DhK-cpM/V_efORD6RrI/AAAAAAAAs5A/2yPkaLgzk8sD7heW77_GJueTXU3le4EoQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8681.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2zh_DhK-cpM/V_efORD6RrI/AAAAAAAAs5A/2yPkaLgzk8sD7heW77_GJueTXU3le4EoQCK4B/s320/IMG_8681.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lX7x-u_s3wU/V_efQyJdCjI/AAAAAAAAs5I/G2x-wV9vBfskjXvXdlssX8s28sN0d2HzgCK4B/s1600/IMG_8687.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lX7x-u_s3wU/V_efQyJdCjI/AAAAAAAAs5I/G2x-wV9vBfskjXvXdlssX8s28sN0d2HzgCK4B/s320/IMG_8687.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WPZYhVJCxN0/V_efeeg1QHI/AAAAAAAAs5U/q7ZhP1jqFBsu3VEnoXwD2h5D9jtrz5i3QCK4B/s1600/IMG_8691.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WPZYhVJCxN0/V_efeeg1QHI/AAAAAAAAs5U/q7ZhP1jqFBsu3VEnoXwD2h5D9jtrz5i3QCK4B/s320/IMG_8691.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our first destination was to ruins of a temple. On the way was a pond, where we didn't miss photo ops :P Big boulders, cliff faces, honey combs, big birds - plus nice weather! It was already turning out to be a good trek, despite relatively small hill.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfQ8gmtxNcw/V_ejozAk-fI/AAAAAAAAs5k/28Wu68oC_z0gWxQteRKKfzWzAwhD5Ph-ACK4B/s1600/IMG_8704.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfQ8gmtxNcw/V_ejozAk-fI/AAAAAAAAs5k/28Wu68oC_z0gWxQteRKKfzWzAwhD5Ph-ACK4B/s320/IMG_8704.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F-YFLd3pmNk/V_ej7BRCkNI/AAAAAAAAs5s/a0AYWafH4dAhx4EdF8TkT7OfnwR9iswAACK4B/s1600/IMG_8736.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F-YFLd3pmNk/V_ej7BRCkNI/AAAAAAAAs5s/a0AYWafH4dAhx4EdF8TkT7OfnwR9iswAACK4B/s320/IMG_8736.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p8yik0TD39E/V_ekCACZG1I/AAAAAAAAs50/KThAUJd7UJknOy2mnjd7qm-BMEaz9Q3JQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8744.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p8yik0TD39E/V_ekCACZG1I/AAAAAAAAs50/KThAUJd7UJknOy2mnjd7qm-BMEaz9Q3JQCK4B/s320/IMG_8744.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VHrs83dNg5A/V_ekQa-QfFI/AAAAAAAAs58/v5G7axgWoLADNyqdSFq-GYqD-PeoVlJxgCK4B/s1600/IMG_8784.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VHrs83dNg5A/V_ekQa-QfFI/AAAAAAAAs58/v5G7axgWoLADNyqdSFq-GYqD-PeoVlJxgCK4B/s320/IMG_8784.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Then we came back to the diverging path and continued on the main trail to peak. We had gotten used to rocky climb by then. The views all around (when not hidden by huge boulders) were awesome too. Shivgange on the distance stood out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uu-9lMsPrLQ/V_ekY_1ezCI/AAAAAAAAs6E/KMBWo2ZdE4QKtMLLQire-BuvAmo3pGuzwCK4B/s1600/IMG_8789.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uu-9lMsPrLQ/V_ekY_1ezCI/AAAAAAAAs6E/KMBWo2ZdE4QKtMLLQire-BuvAmo3pGuzwCK4B/s320/IMG_8789.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j6HNwKtlWzU/V_ekoqxgfjI/AAAAAAAAs6Q/2VIzOJsxHrkJRpasmJ6dhiJO8o4HtEwYQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8811.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j6HNwKtlWzU/V_ekoqxgfjI/AAAAAAAAs6Q/2VIzOJsxHrkJRpasmJ6dhiJO8o4HtEwYQCK4B/s320/IMG_8811.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bh93Ct-HEKo/V_ek0DhMyFI/AAAAAAAAs6Y/5OuXLXy7yxI-7o5LTvnsjKaUJFonT9I3ACK4B/s1600/IMG_8812.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bh93Ct-HEKo/V_ek0DhMyFI/AAAAAAAAs6Y/5OuXLXy7yxI-7o5LTvnsjKaUJFonT9I3ACK4B/s320/IMG_8812.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The fort walls and stone archways added to the beauty. As we climbed higher, our views became even better. The temple ruin and pond made for good photo clicks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dO28FKi8iMU/V_elFdQKnQI/AAAAAAAAs6k/nLxpQFwSv6so_0b5m4MaHISrVFQ0cy-jgCK4B/s1600/IMG_8842.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dO28FKi8iMU/V_elFdQKnQI/AAAAAAAAs6k/nLxpQFwSv6so_0b5m4MaHISrVFQ0cy-jgCK4B/s320/IMG_8842.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FpwwK7G9yNI/V_elIpgaWaI/AAAAAAAAs6s/EYnsB4mR8BoHgDWDCQ63Z6ZwzdNQAPMtACK4B/s1600/IMG_8843.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FpwwK7G9yNI/V_elIpgaWaI/AAAAAAAAs6s/EYnsB4mR8BoHgDWDCQ63Z6ZwzdNQAPMtACK4B/s320/IMG_8843.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JMsUgxRipBE/V_elNpNicZI/AAAAAAAAs60/FdQg3I_GxbIM7o3hHH7PT1VSobM3zNwywCK4B/s1600/IMG_8845.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JMsUgxRipBE/V_elNpNicZI/AAAAAAAAs60/FdQg3I_GxbIM7o3hHH7PT1VSobM3zNwywCK4B/s320/IMG_8845.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And the jumping shots were inevitably attempted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-anA-0TymIZ4/V_elQdK4yeI/AAAAAAAAs68/_46AwLoOoY0OzbmahVw-BoXcn4qpJtO_QCK4B/s1600/IMG_8850.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-anA-0TymIZ4/V_elQdK4yeI/AAAAAAAAs68/_46AwLoOoY0OzbmahVw-BoXcn4qpJtO_QCK4B/s320/IMG_8850.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">And then there was the last stretch to peak. What fun to try to look like we were climbing a particularly difficult stretch :P There were little steps carved, but that would be too easy. So, we bent our back and used our hands to crawl.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WP-jHEKAPJ8/V_elbmBbEmI/AAAAAAAAs7E/KUJx8zg9DOcjBUhAUixbck_o3fDm4b58gCK4B/s1600/IMG_8863.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WP-jHEKAPJ8/V_elbmBbEmI/AAAAAAAAs7E/KUJx8zg9DOcjBUhAUixbck_o3fDm4b58gCK4B/s320/IMG_8863.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ndaBqwmzOZk/V_epv5DB4VI/AAAAAAAAs7U/xGCQyo900sMgUpzwI2i2XquWA6aOnIG_QCK4B/s1600/IMG_8892.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ndaBqwmzOZk/V_epv5DB4VI/AAAAAAAAs7U/xGCQyo900sMgUpzwI2i2XquWA6aOnIG_QCK4B/s320/IMG_8892.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V0PRL9LFSqY/V_ep3iwtibI/AAAAAAAAs7c/2kwirOXhQCw25HV1_riOy9Q1NXS4rHeTACK4B/s1600/IMG_8906.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V0PRL9LFSqY/V_ep3iwtibI/AAAAAAAAs7c/2kwirOXhQCw25HV1_riOy9Q1NXS4rHeTACK4B/s320/IMG_8906.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The peak was pretty large area to explore with its many stone structures built and large boulders forming interesting paths and sort of caves. And the monkeys. Be very wary of them if you happen to visit this awesome hill.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dISEaUJPfHc/V_eqDQbTM5I/AAAAAAAAs7k/PCH-_8YpEow9OgTZrTXhMe9G6yk0Zq_1gCK4B/s1600/IMG_8921.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dISEaUJPfHc/V_eqDQbTM5I/AAAAAAAAs7k/PCH-_8YpEow9OgTZrTXhMe9G6yk0Zq_1gCK4B/s320/IMG_8921.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aLxwMYgdItk/V_eqH5C_AXI/AAAAAAAAs7s/BDCJJyNpQRAIWUt38IQ8e79BHfv-OfOlQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8922.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aLxwMYgdItk/V_eqH5C_AXI/AAAAAAAAs7s/BDCJJyNpQRAIWUt38IQ8e79BHfv-OfOlQCK4B/s320/IMG_8922.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After a while, we sat under one of those biggggggg rocks (wasn't too hot despite a bit of sunshine, but who'll want to miss the shade and cool breeze to go with). </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcCAyZyeSvo/V_eqUQ624uI/AAAAAAAAs74/9rIulaNtn4sK7T7-KukP-_Fbj3dJ8rejQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8937.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcCAyZyeSvo/V_eqUQ624uI/AAAAAAAAs74/9rIulaNtn4sK7T7-KukP-_Fbj3dJ8rejQCK4B/s320/IMG_8937.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8-EUNgcTKgY/V_eqbzwikFI/AAAAAAAAs8A/mv4jfaoH5ocO_bXHNtUS9VGgbHpV4gi4QCK4B/s1600/IMG_8970.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8-EUNgcTKgY/V_eqbzwikFI/AAAAAAAAs8A/mv4jfaoH5ocO_bXHNtUS9VGgbHpV4gi4QCK4B/s320/IMG_8970.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After much deliberation, we settled to play Dumb Charades. It was pretty fun, especially to guess those really long names (BTC experience helps :P) The two kids (came with their parents, so good to see) added to entertainment with their enacting and guess work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q1-820Tzpvc/V_eqr68OdWI/AAAAAAAAs8M/iva1SknP8XAt7qVEgUCUoXMi293C2G9BgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9001.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q1-820Tzpvc/V_eqr68OdWI/AAAAAAAAs8M/iva1SknP8XAt7qVEgUCUoXMi293C2G9BgCK4B/s320/IMG_9001.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a55gIfSPENQ/V_eqyVKPjQI/AAAAAAAAs8U/DJ8O8mNDvekBJFwyYI7Plc8EvLuusOzrwCK4B/s1600/IMG_9011.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a55gIfSPENQ/V_eqyVKPjQI/AAAAAAAAs8U/DJ8O8mNDvekBJFwyYI7Plc8EvLuusOzrwCK4B/s320/IMG_9011.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hChPYJIh0l0/V_eq5DYczPI/AAAAAAAAs8c/47VxFVwgLMEmIiF9VV6gD07RLUlbNqrEACK4B/s1600/IMG_9024.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hChPYJIh0l0/V_eq5DYczPI/AAAAAAAAs8c/47VxFVwgLMEmIiF9VV6gD07RLUlbNqrEACK4B/s320/IMG_9024.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Packed lunch (tamarind rice) was tasty. But we couldn't eat in peace with monkeys looking to snatch away. In the end we walked away with some putting off to eat afterwards.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">While taking group pics, one adventurous monkey managed to steal a water bottle! We managed to retrieve the bottle before leaving though (after it was damaged and almost empty) </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsWeRlg5tpQ/V_erHGUkLsI/AAAAAAAAs8k/zQyAQ2I15kMi4MvWIrMYH4gNcp3sZtnOQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9063.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsWeRlg5tpQ/V_erHGUkLsI/AAAAAAAAs8k/zQyAQ2I15kMi4MvWIrMYH4gNcp3sZtnOQCK4B/s320/IMG_9063.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DMB48lvFSEc/V_erMLH7xxI/AAAAAAAAs8s/gs1yGsJCdUcoKvPAvbew92fzQnhq_jpkQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9071.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DMB48lvFSEc/V_erMLH7xxI/AAAAAAAAs8s/gs1yGsJCdUcoKvPAvbew92fzQnhq_jpkQCK4B/s320/IMG_9071.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Going down was quite fast as usual. Little bit tricky, but first timers quickly got the hang of climbing down side ways. On the way down, we met people from nearby village coming up, presumably to visit temple.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mzyRGg5Vkbg/V_erV_CcMDI/AAAAAAAAs84/SJ-OltswDaM4ymUo1KKYg95-RttXKgHIwCK4B/s1600/IMG_9084.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mzyRGg5Vkbg/V_erV_CcMDI/AAAAAAAAs84/SJ-OltswDaM4ymUo1KKYg95-RttXKgHIwCK4B/s320/IMG_9084.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PVYmvRbxgxc/V_erd6OULlI/AAAAAAAAs9A/9gE6hKFsGHoIxmTGrcCZrsw7pFIkEwHowCK4B/s1600/IMG_9093.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PVYmvRbxgxc/V_erd6OULlI/AAAAAAAAs9A/9gE6hKFsGHoIxmTGrcCZrsw7pFIkEwHowCK4B/s320/IMG_9093.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the base, we continued walking towards the railway station. We had plenty of time left to catch the train and the trek hadn't been too taxing anyway. Though it wasn't hot, it was a bit humid. Our water rations were running low too. Minimum 2 liters for a day trek is must.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XWvhm2ysJqY/V_erz1zx_FI/AAAAAAAAs9M/ThUP1f3GRxUbq6NOieRfUs0oZG2Vt58swCK4B/s1600/IMG_9121.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XWvhm2ysJqY/V_erz1zx_FI/AAAAAAAAs9M/ThUP1f3GRxUbq6NOieRfUs0oZG2Vt58swCK4B/s320/IMG_9121.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAtYaLELjBM/V_er3wxMh1I/AAAAAAAAs9U/7-q4NDcgdskbUjbeR73blPmoyFqjoYhywCK4B/s1600/IMG_9125.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAtYaLELjBM/V_er3wxMh1I/AAAAAAAAs9U/7-q4NDcgdskbUjbeR73blPmoyFqjoYhywCK4B/s320/IMG_9125.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NqJn41y3hN8/V_er95s7DPI/AAAAAAAAs9c/Dvsj1rM2Tkof32eGe75x_bJlGluObOIRQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9130.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NqJn41y3hN8/V_er95s7DPI/AAAAAAAAs9c/Dvsj1rM2Tkof32eGe75x_bJlGluObOIRQCK4B/s320/IMG_9130.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Of course, we tried balancing on rails :P Smaller groups formed and changed frequently as we got into discussions, topics ranging wide and far. The two kids were a revelation to talk too. So mature and knowledgeable. And came to know about <a href="http://www.nos.org/">NOS</a> - didn't know self schooling was possible in India. These two kids are taught primarily by their mother and give exams as per NOS. And they like their sports and novels to go with. Nice :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Speaking of sports, we kept tab on ongoing India-NZ test series. After not so good first day, we were surprised to know Indian lower order had pushed our innings total beyond 300 and that NZ were 4 down for less than 100 in reply.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D42oE-LQtBg/V_esLETsqGI/AAAAAAAAs9k/jUhMCNbvzRse_-S_T7esXhe_Ch9eQ03OQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9134.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D42oE-LQtBg/V_esLETsqGI/AAAAAAAAs9k/jUhMCNbvzRse_-S_T7esXhe_Ch9eQ03OQCK4B/s320/IMG_9134.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-HiMV-Z9_o/V_esSSomtUI/AAAAAAAAs9s/ZKFRBdIdCAUFDFCh1tNT2-do_IRbKEiygCK4B/s1600/IMG_9166.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-HiMV-Z9_o/V_esSSomtUI/AAAAAAAAs9s/ZKFRBdIdCAUFDFCh1tNT2-do_IRbKEiygCK4B/s320/IMG_9166.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After a long walk, we finally reached Dobbspet railway station. We filled our water bottles and then sat down for feedback session (to go with those finishing their lunches and the rest munching on snacks/fruits). Return journey went in a breeze with our continued discussion. Had to adjust in various seats as crowd was much more than morning.</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-40825481165674977532016-10-06T11:43:00.000+05:302016-10-06T11:43:05.457+05:30Go Green - Diesel Loco Shed and Yeshwanthpur<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Very satisfying to attend the last two go green events for the year. Thanks a lot<span style="font-size: medium;"> <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/" target="_blank">BTC</a> and <a href="http://saytrees.org/" target="_blank">SayTrees</a>.</span></span></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Diesel Loco Shed, KR Puram - Sep 24</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was cloudy morning with bit of a drizzle, but we BTC enthusiasts reached the venue around 8 AM, even those coming from far off places. We caught up with fellow trekkers, regaling with our recent trips as well as previous plantation drives.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HJpI1Y5Kwws/V_ThEWas3eI/AAAAAAAAs1s/YaFeauZ6yOI7_44KI6u9pRJkuYLSMai_QCK4B/s1600/IMG_8505.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HJpI1Y5Kwws/V_ThEWas3eI/AAAAAAAAs1s/YaFeauZ6yOI7_44KI6u9pRJkuYLSMai_QCK4B/s320/IMG_8505.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B0XdLmAYkZA/V_ThL4Iud9I/AAAAAAAAs10/yU8rqbG5Y1MoCylJblpE_3OMe4_MCupRACK4B/s1600/IMG_8513.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B0XdLmAYkZA/V_ThL4Iud9I/AAAAAAAAs10/yU8rqbG5Y1MoCylJblpE_3OMe4_MCupRACK4B/s320/IMG_8513.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g9F1Qs6HjMc/V_Ti_fyMogI/AAAAAAAAs2E/8_zuo2YNiTcHZVE3FTPEgOQQRq5bfzzcQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8515.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g9F1Qs6HjMc/V_Ti_fyMogI/AAAAAAAAs2E/8_zuo2YNiTcHZVE3FTPEgOQQRq5bfzzcQCK4B/s320/IMG_8515.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Durgesh and other organizers from SayTrees assembled corporate employees, college and school students and others to give an overview of event, a demo of plantation, etc</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQ4rzGBalo4/V_TjKmGs2pI/AAAAAAAAs2M/ifinTRysOdUOU2T0kK1ytqNROXIXXDSjQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8523.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQ4rzGBalo4/V_TjKmGs2pI/AAAAAAAAs2M/ifinTRysOdUOU2T0kK1ytqNROXIXXDSjQCK4B/s320/IMG_8523.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2G-uY7uOnKk/V_TjPtnpboI/AAAAAAAAs2U/z8utnaCRa6Um6pRwF4pjbv8SjqcCUBm-wCK4B/s1600/IMG_8525.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2G-uY7uOnKk/V_TjPtnpboI/AAAAAAAAs2U/z8utnaCRa6Um6pRwF4pjbv8SjqcCUBm-wCK4B/s320/IMG_8525.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XwAIOD6QrPE/V_TjSSClNPI/AAAAAAAAs2c/9ccTNXgUgIwzvcbz7oSjUSmUeszixntKQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8526.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XwAIOD6QrPE/V_TjSSClNPI/AAAAAAAAs2c/9ccTNXgUgIwzvcbz7oSjUSmUeszixntKQCK4B/s320/IMG_8526.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As usual, Arun and Virender did the same for BTCians. As the plantation method was different from previous drives, everybody were keen to listen and ask questions. Then, we were split in groups (mostly 2 person) - combining first timers and those with earlier plantation drive experience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cpA8i_6v9e4/V_Tj2OT0egI/AAAAAAAAs2o/q2hjVzU0k2Q1HBQRRJfK4-_K6XAhMM5JACK4B/s1600/IMG_8553.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cpA8i_6v9e4/V_Tj2OT0egI/AAAAAAAAs2o/q2hjVzU0k2Q1HBQRRJfK4-_K6XAhMM5JACK4B/s320/IMG_8553.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d8w0Aiox1cM/V_TkCEl-NcI/AAAAAAAAs20/Rsn21Pp0dGESDJ5zj-THTlwlavE1tTlgwCK4B/s1600/IMG_8573.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d8w0Aiox1cM/V_TkCEl-NcI/AAAAAAAAs20/Rsn21Pp0dGESDJ5zj-THTlwlavE1tTlgwCK4B/s320/IMG_8573.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">With 500+ turnout and relatively simpler plantation method, we finished off all saplings in about 2 hours and were left wanting for more saplings :P Then we had feedback session - as usual we were all thrilled to be part of this wonderful initiative and told our heartfelt satisfying experiences.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pLiBlCVfubc/V_TkUBqVjDI/AAAAAAAAs28/s43g6cAGeGkmKMJzUne5lSBqCJC-fXCdwCK4B/s1600/IMG_8597.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pLiBlCVfubc/V_TkUBqVjDI/AAAAAAAAs28/s43g6cAGeGkmKMJzUne5lSBqCJC-fXCdwCK4B/s320/IMG_8597.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FjmNZqQW2pM/V_TkaYoZm1I/AAAAAAAAs3E/L90aPGi1aU03839U2ZRaDSbdfVVBwfNawCK4B/s1600/IMG_8606.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FjmNZqQW2pM/V_TkaYoZm1I/AAAAAAAAs3E/L90aPGi1aU03839U2ZRaDSbdfVVBwfNawCK4B/s320/IMG_8606.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Check out this beautiful coverage from TV9 on this event, also explains the </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Miyawaki</span> plantation way.</span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/eySTSV7oneU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eySTSV7oneU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: small;">TV9 coverage</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Further reading: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akira_Miyawaki">Akira Miyawaki</a></span></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Yeshwanthpur - Oct 2</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The sunny, hot day couldn't have been more in contrast than the cool, pleasant one at Diesel Loco Shed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bxFBCSsN1Hs/V_TkpWNkaeI/AAAAAAAAs3M/3uS0qCxQt7sjeBysNbBhjB-fOmRiwZ62QCK4B/s1600/IMG_9171.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bxFBCSsN1Hs/V_TkpWNkaeI/AAAAAAAAs3M/3uS0qCxQt7sjeBysNbBhjB-fOmRiwZ62QCK4B/s320/IMG_9171.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m0XvkXlvEGQ/V_TkuiT6cEI/AAAAAAAAs3Y/bUR4CGxApqEbuaCk3RMiAqj1AErba9a_gCK4B/s1600/IMG_9179.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m0XvkXlvEGQ/V_TkuiT6cEI/AAAAAAAAs3Y/bUR4CGxApqEbuaCk3RMiAqj1AErba9a_gCK4B/s320/IMG_9179.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Arun, Virender and Durgesh co-ordinated to guide us or give lift to the venue from Yeshwanthpur railway station entrance. While waiting for more people to arrive, organizers from SayTrees asked us to move the saplings, sticks, manure, etc to the already dug pits.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p56gHeswWUw/V_Tk5Vuo74I/AAAAAAAAs3g/xhtagODhtoscLvwbhDzGbphYI1oZ5ByCQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9185.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p56gHeswWUw/V_Tk5Vuo74I/AAAAAAAAs3g/xhtagODhtoscLvwbhDzGbphYI1oZ5ByCQCK4B/s320/IMG_9185.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YxFkyTXk_Lo/V_Tk7C7IUwI/AAAAAAAAs3o/GYBmBkPojEgW4q1YA3-x-FNVOSfBFawYgCK4B/s1600/IMG_9189.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YxFkyTXk_Lo/V_Tk7C7IUwI/AAAAAAAAs3o/GYBmBkPojEgW4q1YA3-x-FNVOSfBFawYgCK4B/s320/IMG_9189.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then as usual, we teamed up - an experienced volunteer with newbies after a demo was given. The soil was loose enough to complete planting fast and move to next one. But there were lots to plant and we took rest when needed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We were soon pretty tired while forming human chain to pass water bucket from tanker to pits. Each sapling had to be watered twice. Again we took breaks in between, drinking more and more water ourselves as well. Special kudos to those who kept on for a long time despite the heat and effort required.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6NO0-F2aLNE/V_TlC83HI4I/AAAAAAAAs3w/laaHC0lSjf4oD1N1oRT4VkgFrDTi1-7sQCK4B/s1600/IMG_9197.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6NO0-F2aLNE/V_TlC83HI4I/AAAAAAAAs3w/laaHC0lSjf4oD1N1oRT4VkgFrDTi1-7sQCK4B/s320/IMG_9197.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We had feedback session before dispersing as is customary. Many were interested in participating in the preparation process prior to planting as well - Durgesh answered the question as well as pointing out how we may help.</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-54740536275824527552016-09-28T20:56:00.000+05:302016-09-28T20:56:24.102+05:30Book review - Aug 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Couple of series to go with reread of first book in Harry Potter series (gift to myself on my birthday :P)<br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Rating scheme is based on <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/">goodreads</a>:</span><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">★</span> liked it</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">★</span> really liked it</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">★</span> amazing</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/41452-farseer-trilogy" target="_blank">Farseer trilogy</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ElLqmf1uTuo/V-vfkzcEz-I/AAAAAAAAsBQ/4sKzqFsCapEv6eMJY3K0hpBBDTlqYw-wgCK4B/s1600/Farseer_trilogy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ElLqmf1uTuo/V-vfkzcEz-I/AAAAAAAAsBQ/4sKzqFsCapEv6eMJY3K0hpBBDTlqYw-wgCK4B/s320/Farseer_trilogy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Reminded of 'Memory, Sorrow and Thorn' trilogy as the books got bigger and bigger. The third one especially could do with chopping or longer climax instead of longer <i>quest</i><br /><br />While fantasy tropes were ever present (and I kept recognizing items related to Cosmere - Fool, Wit, Statue army, names like Vin and Serene, repeated epigraphs) it was refreshing for a change that direction of the story was ever a mystery. There was no slated end-game and the one given didn't feel like one anyway.<br /><br />The writing was beautiful, sprinkled everywhere with easter eggs, hidden meanings and connections (I don't think I caught even half of them). I suspect this is one of the series that gets better with every reread. And I sure am planning to catch up with other books in <b>The Realm of the Elderlings</b>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/96465-the-riyria-revelations" target="_blank">The Riyria Revelations series</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span><span style="color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">★</span></span> </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PVAKl0ULkQQ/V-vfnIbOcsI/AAAAAAAAsBY/y6bZYvlACJERGrqGpSF-RJejYOE-vsycQCK4B/s1600/Riyria_Revelations.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PVAKl0ULkQQ/V-vfnIbOcsI/AAAAAAAAsBY/y6bZYvlACJERGrqGpSF-RJejYOE-vsycQCK4B/s320/Riyria_Revelations.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="font-size: large;">Fun, easy to read, plenty of twists and teasers, good mix of male/female characters, page turner - highly recommend to fantasy beginners and pros alike.<br /><br />And the good news is that there are more books in the same world :)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bonus Links</span></span></b></span></div>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/5326no/recommendation_chart_for_beginners_oc/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Anime recommendation chart for beginners</span></span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/Fantasy/comments/52vh3v/favourite_romance_in_a_fantasy_bookseries/" target="_blank">Discussion on 'Favourite romance in a fantasy book/series?'</a></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Book title links and images courtesy <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/">goodreads</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.in/2016/02/book-review-jan-2016.html">Book review - Jan 2016</a> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/03/book-review-feb-2016.html">Book review - Feb 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/04/book-review-mar-2016.html">Book review - Mar 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/05/book-review-apr-2016.html">Book review - Apr 2016</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/06/book-review-may-2016.html">Book review - May 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/07/book-review-june-2016.html" target="_blank">Book review - June 2016</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2016/08/book-review-july-2016.html" target="_blank">Book review - July 2016</a> </span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-77495561782082445582016-09-23T16:25:00.001+05:302016-09-23T16:25:38.557+05:30Exploration trek<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">A different kind of blog post for different kind of trek event :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Research </span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Simple online search like "Trekking places around Bengaluru" will give plenty of places to go trekking. The popular places are usually crowded though and inevitably riddled with garbage. Apart from being good responsible trekker by not littering, try to help in cleaning garbage you see on path if possible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_NbsaaJq0Rc/V-UFBXlfY9I/AAAAAAAArzI/duje1MaF-LUHW4pACOCqha573yaqNM68wCK4B/s1600/IMG_8129.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_NbsaaJq0Rc/V-UFBXlfY9I/AAAAAAAArzI/duje1MaF-LUHW4pACOCqha573yaqNM68wCK4B/s320/IMG_8129.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, while searching, go beyond first page results. See if you can get some blogger describing experiences of a </span><span style="font-size: large;">obscure place. Or just take that extra step to scale a hill you saw someday somewhere while traveling. If it is easily accessible via public transport (by bus or train), the better.</span></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Transportation</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I put it before, spots accessible by public transport is better suited, especially when you are a group of more than 5 trekkers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">With lot more info available online, like <a href="http://etrain.info/in" target="_blank">etrain.info</a> for passenger train details, it is easy to plan ahead. Take a note that trains on Sunday are lesser compared to other days in the week. Hence, jam packed on Sundays. Go lot earlier to purchase tickets, perhaps ask that one fellow who likes to reach lot earlier than scheduled time to book tickets for all. After all it is a team work and everyone can contribute in their own way :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Food</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For early starts, might be difficult to get up, have breakfast and reach station in time. Easy to get decent food on major stations, but not so at small stations. So, again co-ordinate to see if some can get parcel for others.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fruits (bananas, especially red ones, dates, oranges, apples, guava, etc) are handy. Home food would be awesome :P Get <i>theplas or khakras </i>if available in a shop nearby to your place.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2 or 3 liters of water is must for everybody to carry. Carrying tetra pack fruit juices is a plus. Or get Electral and mix with water when needed. Unlike western ghats, hills around Bengaluru mostly don't have water source on trail paths.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Trail and Terrain</span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Locals are usually helpful - be it info about trail, travel options, food, etc. It helps to have someone knowing the local language as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pb4RbRt0IiE/V-UFM87dQZI/AAAAAAAArzQ/lV6LVHp_VCk9cXsp6hLw1Bdm4Y9FNgylgCK4B/s1600/IMG_8136.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pb4RbRt0IiE/V-UFM87dQZI/AAAAAAAArzQ/lV6LVHp_VCk9cXsp6hLw1Bdm4Y9FNgylgCK4B/s320/IMG_8136.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Attire according to place is important. It is reasonably safe to assume thorny bushes in hillocks around Bengaluru. Jeans and Corduroys are better suited than thin track suits which can get easily torn and draw blood in the process. Use breathable tops (preferably full sleeves).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cR8HdmXsAQ8/V-UHBp4U2VI/AAAAAAAAr0s/rtYZEubN4UQg9840V2APzoFspji7tWqNQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8237.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cR8HdmXsAQ8/V-UHBp4U2VI/AAAAAAAAr0s/rtYZEubN4UQg9840V2APzoFspji7tWqNQCK4B/s320/IMG_8237.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P-V89TboPY0/V-UHLD6TM-I/AAAAAAAAr00/PDkGwIrQR-Q-gYYVpFnPCyY5qLJsSwtMwCK4B/s1600/IMG_8261.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P-V89TboPY0/V-UHLD6TM-I/AAAAAAAAr00/PDkGwIrQR-Q-gYYVpFnPCyY5qLJsSwtMwCK4B/s320/IMG_8261.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WlUuOiqdDuo/V-UHT_KUZkI/AAAAAAAAr08/d8tgqcVNsmkYjLYh1DZ0iSBp6RaAZuYywCK4B/s1600/IMG_8302.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WlUuOiqdDuo/V-UHT_KUZkI/AAAAAAAAr08/d8tgqcVNsmkYjLYh1DZ0iSBp6RaAZuYywCK4B/s320/IMG_8302.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ReTkPN7pvk/V-UHZtV_QNI/AAAAAAAAr1E/L70kCvSw1BISC9hkuDIdLCT-q3Pd4CpmACK4B/s1600/IMG_8312.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ReTkPN7pvk/V-UHZtV_QNI/AAAAAAAAr1E/L70kCvSw1BISC9hkuDIdLCT-q3Pd4CpmACK4B/s320/IMG_8312.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IduJ25upESw/V-UHh4cia0I/AAAAAAAAr1M/RQXzoTi6Ia4JrbtKluWdMGFgvxgZIHfOACK4B/s1600/IMG_8323.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IduJ25upESw/V-UHh4cia0I/AAAAAAAAr1M/RQXzoTi6Ia4JrbtKluWdMGFgvxgZIHfOACK4B/s320/IMG_8323.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If climbing a reasonably unknown hill, most likely there won't be a marked trail. If you find a good one, consider marking the path by scratching against boulders.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UvEiXYCoRSg/V-UILVc5DsI/AAAAAAAAr2I/aE4Sef_AUqAXeTIrIUAgegNEJeU1TAcdQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8391.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UvEiXYCoRSg/V-UILVc5DsI/AAAAAAAAr2I/aE4Sef_AUqAXeTIrIUAgegNEJeU1TAcdQCK4B/s320/IMG_8391.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VcfPW5_xU28/V-UIQBbbCBI/AAAAAAAAr2Q/FandsnPETq0ecL7m9k1vIlnh19Vyi5-lwCK4B/s1600/IMG_8395.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VcfPW5_xU28/V-UIQBbbCBI/AAAAAAAAr2Q/FandsnPETq0ecL7m9k1vIlnh19Vyi5-lwCK4B/s320/IMG_8395.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fG_8P4LfL4I/V-UIaeadtkI/AAAAAAAAr2Y/Ak5AnfRhFTUVkTdkj831ADV1dF8kWhdRwCK4B/s1600/IMG_8413.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fG_8P4LfL4I/V-UIaeadtkI/AAAAAAAAr2Y/Ak5AnfRhFTUVkTdkj831ADV1dF8kWhdRwCK4B/s320/IMG_8413.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--n8VMllo92s/V-UIgjMlXVI/AAAAAAAAr2g/7ldwsIM9zSYVnqf_AKotJGnhhSo9-yl7gCK4B/s1600/IMG_8421.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--n8VMllo92s/V-UIgjMlXVI/AAAAAAAAr2g/7ldwsIM9zSYVnqf_AKotJGnhhSo9-yl7gCK4B/s320/IMG_8421.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Caves are to be expected in hillocks. Often you'll have to backtrack. Often you'll have to attempt a little more to go further. Be reasonable and enjoy the journey, not necessary to reach the peak.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_IcKrsbsVaY/V-UI0_RCeEI/AAAAAAAAr20/BNXCBG_sEhATS4ot1SyfEzkhHXJlnZaZgCK4B/s1600/IMG_8485.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_IcKrsbsVaY/V-UI0_RCeEI/AAAAAAAAr20/BNXCBG_sEhATS4ot1SyfEzkhHXJlnZaZgCK4B/s320/IMG_8485.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Keen eyes could spot little beauties for macro shots. Be it flowers or bugs, sure to be found.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOUkGbtp3Dc/V-UFQyKLflI/AAAAAAAArzY/4WgxJMvT79UcSIJ55SK0WVTTRl5ooZcDQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8139.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOUkGbtp3Dc/V-UFQyKLflI/AAAAAAAArzY/4WgxJMvT79UcSIJ55SK0WVTTRl5ooZcDQCK4B/s320/IMG_8139.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mtWzN1dGqhs/V-UFWFngAoI/AAAAAAAArzg/t3m1deVPnMsFDgvptzn6Toi6rI9jy199ACK4B/s1600/IMG_8153.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mtWzN1dGqhs/V-UFWFngAoI/AAAAAAAArzg/t3m1deVPnMsFDgvptzn6Toi6rI9jy199ACK4B/s320/IMG_8153.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kuNHwnspHCs/V-UFZx9NhlI/AAAAAAAArzo/lRwm6ypCcosYMcJIDyTWK9snsh3No1RWACK4B/s1600/IMG_8154.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kuNHwnspHCs/V-UFZx9NhlI/AAAAAAAArzo/lRwm6ypCcosYMcJIDyTWK9snsh3No1RWACK4B/s320/IMG_8154.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i9qP5w5qe5w/V-UFcPKtH9I/AAAAAAAArzw/vRR77NzZpywU6txRpAeeI7yG9OCSP0OIACK4B/s1600/IMG_8156.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i9qP5w5qe5w/V-UFcPKtH9I/AAAAAAAArzw/vRR77NzZpywU6txRpAeeI7yG9OCSP0OIACK4B/s320/IMG_8156.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k57QpgirP_4/V-UGEl4xo8I/AAAAAAAAr0A/TapfKgSPQpAZ4x6UGKknAZTY-c-GWNE8wCK4B/s1600/IMG_8164.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k57QpgirP_4/V-UGEl4xo8I/AAAAAAAAr0A/TapfKgSPQpAZ4x6UGKknAZTY-c-GWNE8wCK4B/s320/IMG_8164.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SFLeLbeFAxQ/V-UG9CaAmOI/AAAAAAAAr0k/R1R4FScs_AwvsAaK8vXNxBNQ_SYREUxOACK4B/s1600/IMG_8233.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SFLeLbeFAxQ/V-UG9CaAmOI/AAAAAAAAr0k/R1R4FScs_AwvsAaK8vXNxBNQ_SYREUxOACK4B/s320/IMG_8233.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CvWk55efxa0/V-UHoCwJuRI/AAAAAAAAr1U/HdPHLcf94OcEvR8TDIGmSLudcgsL5z9pwCK4B/s1600/IMG_8340.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CvWk55efxa0/V-UHoCwJuRI/AAAAAAAAr1U/HdPHLcf94OcEvR8TDIGmSLudcgsL5z9pwCK4B/s320/IMG_8340.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-45773102733344166912016-09-20T10:24:00.001+05:302016-09-20T10:24:10.993+05:30Early morning walk and jog at Cubbon park - 17 Sep, 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">So glad that <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/" target="_blank">BTC</a> started the walk and jog events again, after a bit of break. Given the rainy season in Bengaluru, my daily 3.5+ KM morning walk wasn't regular too these past few weeks.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b8Nkgk8AnsU/V-C_YWvm6KI/AAAAAAAArxk/3IAzgjmLCbU5NM-_WP0ihz1yveZjYJfUwCLcB/s1600/Cubbon_Park_OSM_Map.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b8Nkgk8AnsU/V-C_YWvm6KI/AAAAAAAArxk/3IAzgjmLCbU5NM-_WP0ihz1yveZjYJfUwCLcB/s320/Cubbon_Park_OSM_Map.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Image credit: <a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a2/Cubbon_Park_OSM_Map.png" target="_blank">wikimedia</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As usual, meeting point was Cubbon park gate besides Metro station. Best way to reach is via Metro and usually you get to meet others on the way. Met Sandeep Paul and Naveen, and later came to know Arvind (good to catch up with him after long time) had also come. While waiting at meeting point, we discussed about our recent treks and introducing ourselves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AmmEPzjH7D0/V-DADC4jVLI/AAAAAAAArx0/3Dyk8oxr3JwZB9-x0Cu-ANIbvh_BUKF6QCK4B/s1600/IMG_1408.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AmmEPzjH7D0/V-DADC4jVLI/AAAAAAAArx0/3Dyk8oxr3JwZB9-x0Cu-ANIbvh_BUKF6QCK4B/s320/IMG_1408.jpg" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">By 6:35 AM, everybody had gathered. Short intro telling our names. Then Ankit explains how we'll do a circuit around Cubbon first by walk and then jogging. New comers were advised to stick to regulars for familiarizing the route.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps because of working day that Saturday, our group was about half the size than normal. Add to it different pacing, we were pretty much on our own throughout. Except at major route points where Ankit and regulars co-ordinated to guide the new comers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jp_vDy7-ozs/V-DAl3oCiZI/AAAAAAAArx8/fdEtrEenFB85zbPHhGtswb7nK0EJfj49gCK4B/s1600/IMG_1411.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jp_vDy7-ozs/V-DAl3oCiZI/AAAAAAAArx8/fdEtrEenFB85zbPHhGtswb7nK0EJfj49gCK4B/s320/IMG_1411.jpg" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sTeShclmBq4/V-DApnIGLFI/AAAAAAAAryE/lWXP9ibR3qkjb7aKkQ2IgCGwyQvicXBcQCK4B/s1600/IMG_1418.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sTeShclmBq4/V-DApnIGLFI/AAAAAAAAryE/lWXP9ibR3qkjb7aKkQ2IgCGwyQvicXBcQCK4B/s320/IMG_1418.jpg" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qiHKtXBIfjM/V-DArhgw6XI/AAAAAAAAryQ/JAphF9ePLfUDX-YnveN7KJIZvbDAy3X0gCK4B/s1600/IMG_1422.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qiHKtXBIfjM/V-DArhgw6XI/AAAAAAAAryQ/JAphF9ePLfUDX-YnveN7KJIZvbDAy3X0gCK4B/s320/IMG_1422.jpg" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And as usual, thanks to Jyothi, we followed our walk and jog with equally (if not more) demanding stretching exercises. Laughter exercises were the best ;) We then had feedback session (praise all around, especially first timers), took a few pics, had sugarcane juice and dispersed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E0J2wGwXeSA/V-DAvHY-lMI/AAAAAAAAryc/xeYw2RPZHfsm_bILM3AQN4_BUmNuCKXoACK4B/s1600/IMG_1438.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E0J2wGwXeSA/V-DAvHY-lMI/AAAAAAAAryc/xeYw2RPZHfsm_bILM3AQN4_BUmNuCKXoACK4B/s320/IMG_1438.jpg" width="240" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pictures credit: <b>Naveen Kumar</b></span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-73208433761973782222016-09-16T19:00:00.005+05:302016-10-08T12:19:37.907+05:30Fast trek to Tadiandamol - 11 Sep 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">My <a href="http://sundeep-sp.blogspot.com/2011/04/tadiandamol-trek-and-chelavara-falls.html" target="_blank">first ever western ghats trip</a> was to Tadiandamol and Chelavara falls. Even though it was February, it was beauty all around, particularly the tall trees and numerous flowers. I had promised myself to visit the place again, perhaps that same year. Well, better late (after more than five and a half years) than never ;) Thanks to <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/" target="_blank">BTC</a> and fellow trekkers, it was yet another memorable and fun filled day :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Meeting point was as usual at Shantala Silk House, opposite Terminal 3, Majestic. Erratic raining, but we all reached on time and started by 10:45 PM towards Virajpet. We played Dumb Charades based on our names along with intro. Except a few good intentioned members, we intentionally made fun of acting and guessed something odd or tangential. Overall it was a good laughter session. Then few managed to catch sleep while others chit-chatted away. At one of the breaks, our professional photographers (Saroj and Ashish) took to night photography, which came out quite good :)</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TD9gp7i1PT0/V9vePiwHSTI/AAAAAAAArLw/RCrx513tiNsgqrZdNZ3vbEv4Md59xEJ8ACK4B/s1600/002%2BFast%2BTrek%2Bto%2BTadiandamol%2B11%2BSep%2B2016.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TD9gp7i1PT0/V9vePiwHSTI/AAAAAAAArLw/RCrx513tiNsgqrZdNZ3vbEv4Md59xEJ8ACK4B/s320/002%2BFast%2BTrek%2Bto%2BTadiandamol%2B11%2BSep%2B2016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">PC: Saroj</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We reached Virajpet bus-stand before dawn (I think around 4:30 AM). The restrooms were recently built and cleaner than most public toilets. We freshened up there. As it was early for hotels outside to open, we had breakfast and lunch parceled at KSRTC hotel in the bus-stand itself. Breakfast was decent and we found the vegetable rice packed for lunch tastier at Tadiandamol peak.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ci0ky7wXxIs/V9vd6Z-vs_I/AAAAAAAArLY/d81TgDE1T4k7iPJgUJj77Gmewv5C8sxAACK4B/s1600/IMG_7618.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ci0ky7wXxIs/V9vd6Z-vs_I/AAAAAAAArLY/d81TgDE1T4k7iPJgUJj77Gmewv5C8sxAACK4B/s320/IMG_7618.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">From there, it took about 45 minutes to reach the base. As road further up wasn't good enough for our mini-bus, we had to start trekking from Nalknad palace itself. We left extra baggage in bus itself and some combined their bags into one (to be carried alternatively). We had a quick name intro, reiteration of BTC rules by Virender and Hiren, few photo shots and we were on our way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gkdzmdbIyJI/V9veHTwe3hI/AAAAAAAArLo/eOwqLxe6eSgYOBsYkfrzxbVuzU6WZDBvwCK4B/s1600/IMG_7642.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gkdzmdbIyJI/V9veHTwe3hI/AAAAAAAArLo/eOwqLxe6eSgYOBsYkfrzxbVuzU6WZDBvwCK4B/s320/IMG_7642.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NoEe8HR0J4E/V9vexbEFmTI/AAAAAAAArL8/HfdlyrbcblwUAC8U7g9akJTkiLe4R6PKgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7646.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NoEe8HR0J4E/V9vexbEFmTI/AAAAAAAArL8/HfdlyrbcblwUAC8U7g9akJTkiLe4R6PKgCK4B/s320/IMG_7646.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dSM9nS-629E/V9vzLfU66vI/AAAAAAAArSs/OjM46iovX9Mb1BhSjVptB1mQJ2A6dbsoACK4B/s1600/IMG_7664.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dSM9nS-629E/V9vzLfU66vI/AAAAAAAArSs/OjM46iovX9Mb1BhSjVptB1mQJ2A6dbsoACK4B/s320/IMG_7664.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The initial 2 KM or so hike on the road was challenging too - steep climb as it curved around the hills. Being fast trek (with members having prior experience) as well as simple route to follow, we mingled and trekked as per our pace. Now and then we would stop for group pictures when we had an amazing view of western ghats to our right or the various streams at start of trail.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vpSyOYjpC5M/V9vfCqSGGwI/AAAAAAAArME/QwMDjeGy_BsHF2bjpkXV_m4HOg_yBb7sgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7663.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vpSyOYjpC5M/V9vfCqSGGwI/AAAAAAAArME/QwMDjeGy_BsHF2bjpkXV_m4HOg_yBb7sgCK4B/s320/IMG_7663.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MeKcHQoUS20/V9vfOrCrNBI/AAAAAAAArMM/_hTB1azVPycKx3d1rk6P10Ou24EX-PIuwCK4B/s1600/IMG_7674.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MeKcHQoUS20/V9vfOrCrNBI/AAAAAAAArMM/_hTB1azVPycKx3d1rk6P10Ou24EX-PIuwCK4B/s320/IMG_7674.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DW4vEgP-BWU/V9vfeHhnOAI/AAAAAAAArMU/I2JdUFNYPf05lpkP2JRdMb1VXurKFqr6QCK4B/s1600/IMG_7684.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DW4vEgP-BWU/V9vfeHhnOAI/AAAAAAAArMU/I2JdUFNYPf05lpkP2JRdMb1VXurKFqr6QCK4B/s320/IMG_7684.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7FB8A1DGXms/V9vfv6BTCMI/AAAAAAAArMc/3QWFimkUphsbVJ07zFttvIfCalakbmXIACK4B/s1600/IMG_7700.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7FB8A1DGXms/V9vfv6BTCMI/AAAAAAAArMc/3QWFimkUphsbVJ07zFttvIfCalakbmXIACK4B/s320/IMG_7700.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Recent rain meant our trail was bit slippery at a few places (especially where tree cover meant less of direct sunlight). The morning was clear, with few white clouds about. Different flowers, snail, millipedes, bees, leaf patterns, etc provided plenty of opportunities for macro shots.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S6yuDrAo0qw/V9vgOWEnPnI/AAAAAAAArMk/0lwmq2Xq9CUKguQBp84nBFutSOtnSHqygCK4B/s1600/IMG_7719.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S6yuDrAo0qw/V9vgOWEnPnI/AAAAAAAArMk/0lwmq2Xq9CUKguQBp84nBFutSOtnSHqygCK4B/s320/IMG_7719.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-utCI7N1l9vU/V9vgVdkg7kI/AAAAAAAArMs/3pzV6HKVECAZxsip62ELFrIEf2YzCgPWQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7725.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-utCI7N1l9vU/V9vgVdkg7kI/AAAAAAAArMs/3pzV6HKVECAZxsip62ELFrIEf2YzCgPWQCK4B/s320/IMG_7725.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IRrbl5V2wk0/V9vgYABOkwI/AAAAAAAArM0/MKVK8QuB0VAIYKqvzmI3tVUTyHxbqb9ogCK4B/s1600/IMG_7727.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IRrbl5V2wk0/V9vgYABOkwI/AAAAAAAArM0/MKVK8QuB0VAIYKqvzmI3tVUTyHxbqb9ogCK4B/s320/IMG_7727.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-03z0JWRt2-o/V9vzal_xPWI/AAAAAAAArS0/GIXgox54cgYmzKV-oSt_kS7NU9GJXYHPQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7742.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-03z0JWRt2-o/V9vzal_xPWI/AAAAAAAArS0/GIXgox54cgYmzKV-oSt_kS7NU9GJXYHPQCK4B/s320/IMG_7742.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Urfa2H42KDg/V9vgwBCifwI/AAAAAAAArM8/gp7ViG1wlTQ0hWPjGvlSYyRbd4Vz40c8ACK4B/s1600/IMG_7759.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Urfa2H42KDg/V9vgwBCifwI/AAAAAAAArM8/gp7ViG1wlTQ0hWPjGvlSYyRbd4Vz40c8ACK4B/s320/IMG_7759.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pT2Vs63EqPk/V9vg0gjq85I/AAAAAAAArNE/A1RRUKcO4kcOLS2DwwkZewuonfzl1hINQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7766.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pT2Vs63EqPk/V9vg0gjq85I/AAAAAAAArNE/A1RRUKcO4kcOLS2DwwkZewuonfzl1hINQCK4B/s320/IMG_7766.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After about an hour of trekking, we saw fog trail left by a flight overhead. Given the mostly clear sky, it presented a sharp contrast to all the greenery meeting the horizon. As the fog trail stays long, we took many pictures even as we moved ahead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WAS9AMaH2LM/V9vhJh1uqDI/AAAAAAAArNM/dkgS7vUnSj0y0mR2WaPX4FfaNZxlPX6aACK4B/s1600/IMG_7776.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WAS9AMaH2LM/V9vhJh1uqDI/AAAAAAAArNM/dkgS7vUnSj0y0mR2WaPX4FfaNZxlPX6aACK4B/s320/IMG_7776.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HxPGT6_aLpo/V9vhNxbFk0I/AAAAAAAArNU/il0zO_Kcl_kdXQlp2Eb4NrG7t5w55MNLQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7780.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HxPGT6_aLpo/V9vhNxbFk0I/AAAAAAAArNU/il0zO_Kcl_kdXQlp2Eb4NrG7t5w55MNLQCK4B/s320/IMG_7780.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T5A5TOJ8_Kc/V9vhbJr7__I/AAAAAAAArNc/xtQq7b7zUOs2HOzbcV_w1wn9dDtQOCenACK4B/s1600/IMG_7789.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T5A5TOJ8_Kc/V9vhbJr7__I/AAAAAAAArNc/xtQq7b7zUOs2HOzbcV_w1wn9dDtQOCenACK4B/s320/IMG_7789.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9DgoukLFqQo/V9vhf2q966I/AAAAAAAArNk/f5gqfkKQcUgBqfjYhNTDhuOsoOlAQpRqgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7798.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9DgoukLFqQo/V9vhf2q966I/AAAAAAAArNk/f5gqfkKQcUgBqfjYhNTDhuOsoOlAQpRqgCK4B/s320/IMG_7798.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our trail had been quite easy after the initial hike on road until around 10 AM we reached a scenic spot by a tree. We rested a bit there, took group pics before moving on. The streams had long stopped cutting our paths, we could hear amidst the forests though. And the path started sloping ever so gently until it became an effort to climb.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rBBncmtv0Wk/V9vuHrXaObI/AAAAAAAArN0/ft2zGoLoau4EW8tmhsqsVd_-oljdQzP6wCK4B/s1600/IMG_7808.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rBBncmtv0Wk/V9vuHrXaObI/AAAAAAAArN0/ft2zGoLoau4EW8tmhsqsVd_-oljdQzP6wCK4B/s320/IMG_7808.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AA6HZq0cLzU/V9vuMoGDkgI/AAAAAAAArN8/no4RHJKJfFUrrwLu9JoKUzOmLJwnrufNQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7818.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AA6HZq0cLzU/V9vuMoGDkgI/AAAAAAAArN8/no4RHJKJfFUrrwLu9JoKUzOmLJwnrufNQCK4B/s320/IMG_7818.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lFDHV21x-i8/V9vuSOnTKcI/AAAAAAAArOE/AHA-klygnPk6TgqOA1O_bamVzcMr6k42gCK4B/s1600/IMG_7823.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lFDHV21x-i8/V9vuSOnTKcI/AAAAAAAArOE/AHA-klygnPk6TgqOA1O_bamVzcMr6k42gCK4B/s320/IMG_7823.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X83md7kOheY/V9vuZAB4UTI/AAAAAAAArOM/yxZyp-S3fZ44aOKsMjxTkmp7vR1W8AazQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7833.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X83md7kOheY/V9vuZAB4UTI/AAAAAAAArOM/yxZyp-S3fZ44aOKsMjxTkmp7vR1W8AazQCK4B/s320/IMG_7833.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Rests became more frequent as we tried to adjust to the steepness. Overhead, Sun was shining merrily with clouds starting to form. Not much of a breeze to cool our sweat and so our pace lagged. Lot of trekkers were returning and crossed our path - seems like a good idea. Start very early, presumably have breakfast at peak, climb down and have lunch on the way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3pvpCRGtbNQ/V9vujdk4_MI/AAAAAAAArOU/hpqtDQsbBcMnwceNTlOpZI1mjpBayfmxwCK4B/s1600/IMG_7846.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3pvpCRGtbNQ/V9vujdk4_MI/AAAAAAAArOU/hpqtDQsbBcMnwceNTlOpZI1mjpBayfmxwCK4B/s320/IMG_7846.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WubE3Snq3WU/V9vusWKxX2I/AAAAAAAArOc/nRjHXqwKx7ARFaAA8xA3VjBRI5MY5xLXgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7852.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WubE3Snq3WU/V9vusWKxX2I/AAAAAAAArOc/nRjHXqwKx7ARFaAA8xA3VjBRI5MY5xLXgCK4B/s320/IMG_7852.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ha_TUR0Z2k/V9vuxZ7SQ4I/AAAAAAAArOk/iBDi7Et4gUwVZoGoqrFj5FQk4Ms_vSx5gCK4B/s1600/IMG_7863.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ha_TUR0Z2k/V9vuxZ7SQ4I/AAAAAAAArOk/iBDi7Et4gUwVZoGoqrFj5FQk4Ms_vSx5gCK4B/s320/IMG_7863.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ENyFr-BSIfE/V9vu9mb919I/AAAAAAAArOs/4x5OFbKT8coM2LLtTqbU1mTTpu9Bhh1ngCK4B/s1600/IMG_7877.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ENyFr-BSIfE/V9vu9mb919I/AAAAAAAArOs/4x5OFbKT8coM2LLtTqbU1mTTpu9Bhh1ngCK4B/s320/IMG_7877.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We would co-ordinate by asking trekkers ahead to stop now and then to catch. Most of the time, those in front would stop automatically when they see a good spot to rest or realize that others are behind a fair distance. Half an hour from the tree spot, we took another extended break (15 minutes), including snacks to energize our tiring selves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R5C9W0T-Zr0/V9vvCjTF6eI/AAAAAAAArO0/pWiQ-ePvnAUuZqCgeBIrf9sCWBdzR5fxgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7878.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R5C9W0T-Zr0/V9vvCjTF6eI/AAAAAAAArO0/pWiQ-ePvnAUuZqCgeBIrf9sCWBdzR5fxgCK4B/s320/IMG_7878.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The spot was a big rocky area, reached by a little tricky climb. From that vantage point, we had amazing view of hills and greenery all around. Not only the distant hills were cloudy, but we were treated with moving mist ourselves. Thanks to everyone sharing those delicious snacks and chocolates, much needed :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8f_slAYFbJI/V9vvHj_oBiI/AAAAAAAArO8/TbFnQF-b9ksLcye0XuT8xJwpgYMpR2crACK4B/s1600/IMG_7883.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8f_slAYFbJI/V9vvHj_oBiI/AAAAAAAArO8/TbFnQF-b9ksLcye0XuT8xJwpgYMpR2crACK4B/s320/IMG_7883.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FbXIs_80-oI/V9vvMXsNfeI/AAAAAAAArPE/fiMA6XC776kgFmgCgIUBmGPREyvDG37iACK4B/s1600/IMG_7884.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FbXIs_80-oI/V9vvMXsNfeI/AAAAAAAArPE/fiMA6XC776kgFmgCgIUBmGPREyvDG37iACK4B/s320/IMG_7884.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-568i0eMONYY/V9vvRBi8QAI/AAAAAAAArPM/svzSp69COno4qLNwmEyWWs-lGWWXrE4twCK4B/s1600/IMG_7885.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-568i0eMONYY/V9vvRBi8QAI/AAAAAAAArPM/svzSp69COno4qLNwmEyWWs-lGWWXrE4twCK4B/s320/IMG_7885.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zOEX6jQoOJg/V9vvXbiYK3I/AAAAAAAArPU/oAM3_KQKyW0zy98Zfw-4KnH3S9LHfbnUACK4B/s1600/IMG_7890.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zOEX6jQoOJg/V9vvXbiYK3I/AAAAAAAArPU/oAM3_KQKyW0zy98Zfw-4KnH3S9LHfbnUACK4B/s320/IMG_7890.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Of course we took plenty of photos before moving on. Shortly, we had to cross the only forest section - takes about 5 minutes, but need to be careful of the few leeches waiting for trekkers. It was steep as well, so we were huffing and puffing by the time we crossed. Yet another rest ensued. This time we collected water to fill one liter bottle, mixed Electral and most of us got a sip.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBVE17roRlQ/V9vvkTLzSrI/AAAAAAAArPc/zNQvF8qv2Pk0kBr2nDrBr286EdwTE-GCACK4B/s1600/IMG_7908.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBVE17roRlQ/V9vvkTLzSrI/AAAAAAAArPc/zNQvF8qv2Pk0kBr2nDrBr286EdwTE-GCACK4B/s320/IMG_7908.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_W7EifQwUA/V9vvw7mxiwI/AAAAAAAArPk/KFRrWlFh3hEdZrmVvjJWO-XKWGjipfjswCK4B/s1600/IMG_7928.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_W7EifQwUA/V9vvw7mxiwI/AAAAAAAArPk/KFRrWlFh3hEdZrmVvjJWO-XKWGjipfjswCK4B/s320/IMG_7928.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u-NtvFff9vs/V9vv9Z_pycI/AAAAAAAArP4/4wyIPyBa8qgOolQ_k5y2UIo9r4iPzWfygCK4B/s1600/IMG_7934.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u-NtvFff9vs/V9vv9Z_pycI/AAAAAAAArP4/4wyIPyBa8qgOolQ_k5y2UIo9r4iPzWfygCK4B/s320/IMG_7934.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4wPF9s-14P4/V9vwG8CyTAI/AAAAAAAArQA/dRmNvml58vg-N04Y2AM2C3tas0QLFsP5gCK4B/s1600/IMG_7942.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4wPF9s-14P4/V9vwG8CyTAI/AAAAAAAArQA/dRmNvml58vg-N04Y2AM2C3tas0QLFsP5gCK4B/s320/IMG_7942.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GZl9XjtyzEE/V9vwTnOtKfI/AAAAAAAArQI/-Vlu1bKgiJ8RTXFX534IFTFx8sxSZdf0gCK4B/s1600/IMG_7952.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GZl9XjtyzEE/V9vwTnOtKfI/AAAAAAAArQI/-Vlu1bKgiJ8RTXFX534IFTFx8sxSZdf0gCK4B/s320/IMG_7952.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TmszBN8tqHQ/V9vwhc5E1EI/AAAAAAAArQQ/Zxp-2LuqoT8J5OoPxIHhY13uFSrut-quQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7971.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TmszBN8tqHQ/V9vwhc5E1EI/AAAAAAAArQQ/Zxp-2LuqoT8J5OoPxIHhY13uFSrut-quQCK4B/s320/IMG_7971.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Half an hour of climb was left. But first timers to this spot had to be convinced that the immediate peaks visible were to be crossed before eventual peak. The rest of the way was steep again. But the view all around, especially looking back the way we had come was breadth taking and worth all the hard work ;)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GwC6XuG_U3U/V9vwlwRNdZI/AAAAAAAArQY/ZHQ9_LJlIrkQ5FmRZsr4YmnYwEH71cXdACK4B/s1600/IMG_7981.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GwC6XuG_U3U/V9vwlwRNdZI/AAAAAAAArQY/ZHQ9_LJlIrkQ5FmRZsr4YmnYwEH71cXdACK4B/s320/IMG_7981.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bNTPh3tkQwM/V9vwuu-sMPI/AAAAAAAArQg/c2ElCMgBFMUk7lVmS1LQwV9fq0GsdMQowCK4B/s1600/IMG_7984.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bNTPh3tkQwM/V9vwuu-sMPI/AAAAAAAArQg/c2ElCMgBFMUk7lVmS1LQwV9fq0GsdMQowCK4B/s320/IMG_7984.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mGpH6nhad8w/V9vwxkBbLkI/AAAAAAAArQo/aYMg9es-5cAd7r1njqsveBMbO3Hmb4O_wCK4B/s1600/IMG_7992.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mGpH6nhad8w/V9vwxkBbLkI/AAAAAAAArQo/aYMg9es-5cAd7r1njqsveBMbO3Hmb4O_wCK4B/s320/IMG_7992.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r0-Ixqbs50k/V9vxKk8YcZI/AAAAAAAArQw/lJ0AI9_ke-YQOHmp3Hir46-7lpysG8CKwCK4B/s1600/IMG_8000.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r0-Ixqbs50k/V9vxKk8YcZI/AAAAAAAArQw/lJ0AI9_ke-YQOHmp3Hir46-7lpysG8CKwCK4B/s320/IMG_8000.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UwRPb3qBQis/V9vxdn67_2I/AAAAAAAArQ4/WBFnqE1K_HszFSUy-wSmS5825svcKyXwwCK4B/s1600/IMG_8041.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UwRPb3qBQis/V9vxdn67_2I/AAAAAAAArQ4/WBFnqE1K_HszFSUy-wSmS5825svcKyXwwCK4B/s320/IMG_8041.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We spent an hour and 10 minutes at the peak. Taking pictures in variety of ways and places, group pics, selfies, profile pics, etc. Lunch was tasty, a bit heavier though. Our rest post lunch was cut short with clouds (we were literally amidst them) starting to precipitate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LKHI0qYWCog/V9vxlWojuHI/AAAAAAAArRA/9sS2f7T4r3QcAsHv9UbqdKz9NC3CXI3VACK4B/s1600/IMG_8046.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LKHI0qYWCog/V9vxlWojuHI/AAAAAAAArRA/9sS2f7T4r3QcAsHv9UbqdKz9NC3CXI3VACK4B/s320/IMG_8046.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xNhhxpmhm2E/V9vxqfOQp1I/AAAAAAAArRI/w8z_ik0zn2gulz2UzfJRBF5o9_039AvWACK4B/s1600/IMG_8054.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xNhhxpmhm2E/V9vxqfOQp1I/AAAAAAAArRI/w8z_ik0zn2gulz2UzfJRBF5o9_039AvWACK4B/s320/IMG_8054.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Climbing down was as usual faster and bit trickier. Drizzle was light enough to ignore and stopped often. More trekkers were arriving and sometimes made a jam when path wasn't wide enough.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1zwhSagQ0E/V9vx2l_AQcI/AAAAAAAArRQ/GihV_j-l9o8PBV_qqkajPtjRSy0JYu_qwCK4B/s1600/IMG_8067.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1zwhSagQ0E/V9vx2l_AQcI/AAAAAAAArRQ/GihV_j-l9o8PBV_qqkajPtjRSy0JYu_qwCK4B/s320/IMG_8067.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-POnboX32PmI/V9vx6dW2UpI/AAAAAAAArRY/qURHjlnUbNoKaj6UNWRTlyfR-yqw1dVDgCK4B/s1600/IMG_8072.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-POnboX32PmI/V9vx6dW2UpI/AAAAAAAArRY/qURHjlnUbNoKaj6UNWRTlyfR-yqw1dVDgCK4B/s320/IMG_8072.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UljLr7j5QyM/V9vx_HhVNMI/AAAAAAAArRg/OYQa6ZdsDk443CsdZwxW8AvVN0R1MC4OQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8078.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UljLr7j5QyM/V9vx_HhVNMI/AAAAAAAArRg/OYQa6ZdsDk443CsdZwxW8AvVN0R1MC4OQCK4B/s320/IMG_8078.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tmypK0YP_kg/V9vyRseYN4I/AAAAAAAArRw/ccJ2_QYB0Rg5oBv8aHFTFV5ozjY9UIDFgCK4B/s1600/IMG_8085.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tmypK0YP_kg/V9vyRseYN4I/AAAAAAAArRw/ccJ2_QYB0Rg5oBv8aHFTFV5ozjY9UIDFgCK4B/s320/IMG_8085.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">About half an hour since descending, Ashish and co entertained us all with energy filled songs. By then rain had stopped completely. The weather was awesome and the cloudy mists made for cool landscapes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_EVmWqoQKBM/V9vyLho1KVI/AAAAAAAArRo/ImHzS14CldYJLLlhniCqSddu2ifmLRODACK4B/s1600/IMG_8080.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_EVmWqoQKBM/V9vyLho1KVI/AAAAAAAArRo/ImHzS14CldYJLLlhniCqSddu2ifmLRODACK4B/s320/IMG_8080.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xNI92kL0DbA/V9vyVEbPS4I/AAAAAAAArR4/0Vgv_orelmcuaHTy7kMcfLl2scM7yR6GQCK4B/s1600/IMG_8089.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xNI92kL0DbA/V9vyVEbPS4I/AAAAAAAArR4/0Vgv_orelmcuaHTy7kMcfLl2scM7yR6GQCK4B/s320/IMG_8089.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ece856V7oFw/V9vydxkc7PI/AAAAAAAArSA/5OYRCFHIPYk0tgrAIBxT0THP9KR_EoVRgCK4B/s1600/IMG_8095.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ece856V7oFw/V9vydxkc7PI/AAAAAAAArSA/5OYRCFHIPYk0tgrAIBxT0THP9KR_EoVRgCK4B/s320/IMG_8095.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our pace was even more varied than climbing. Few were very fast, some moderate and others took their time. We stopped by largest stream for everybody to catch up. We needed water too, most/all of us had run outta water within half hour of descent.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_v10Fwb_BJ4/V9vysem4j3I/AAAAAAAArSQ/r3NydX39fXQ3xesL5Ue-wy9gmqSHL8-qgCK4B/s1600/IMG_8100.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_v10Fwb_BJ4/V9vysem4j3I/AAAAAAAArSQ/r3NydX39fXQ3xesL5Ue-wy9gmqSHL8-qgCK4B/s320/IMG_8100.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Had interesting stories to hear from last half of members to reach. One had taken a wrong path (at that fork, actual route climbs up than the other which goes down) and was assisted by a dog to right path. Others had taken to clean up garbage - kudos!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">PC: Saroj</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L0GB1e-5oD8/V9vysPoOH2I/AAAAAAAArSI/v5lwVppB5VchAcOOPoC7vKz8O12Mz-oGACK4B/s1600/IMG_8109.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L0GB1e-5oD8/V9vysPoOH2I/AAAAAAAArSI/v5lwVppB5VchAcOOPoC7vKz8O12Mz-oGACK4B/s320/IMG_8109.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We took few more group pics after freshening up and then continued our trudge on the road. Back at our bus, we gobbled up snacks. Thanks especially for those who had brought fruits :) On the way back, we stopped at Virajpet for restroom facility. And then had tea/coffee, variety of chats, sweets, cookies, etc. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Though we had started earlier than planned in the morning, we were running late than planned arrival at Bengaluru. So we skipped dinner plan on the way. Most of us were full and sleepy anyway. We whiled away time listening to music (via aux connected to phone), chit-chatting, etc. Then woke everybody up as we neared Bengaluru for feedback session. Everybody liked the trek a lot and most suggestions were related to starting earlier and traveling back overnight. The total cost incurred was less than Rs 850, including BTC fund :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pplxuk3rsE8/V9vzjxJGfyI/AAAAAAAArS8/ZmtMsHGE8Poi-3scQmwVzvZyGOHnzNT8ACK4B/s1600/IMG_7754.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pplxuk3rsE8/V9vzjxJGfyI/AAAAAAAArS8/ZmtMsHGE8Poi-3scQmwVzvZyGOHnzNT8ACK4B/s320/IMG_7754.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-84624595030334442242016-09-10T13:36:00.001+05:302016-09-10T13:36:16.411+05:30'Easy' trek to Maribetta - 4 Sep 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">A new place around Bengaluru for one day trek? I am in! Even rarer that I got the opportunity twice within a space of 5 weeks! Can't thank <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/" target="_blank">BTC</a> enough ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The meeting point was Shantala Silk House, opposite Terminal 3 (as usual when we aren't taking public transport). Metro is most convenient as the gate is close to Terminal 3. While waiting for mini-bus to arrive, some of us had tea/coffee from nearby hotel.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After picking up remaining members at Banashankari, Hiren and Kamal welcomed us and we played Dumb Charades with everyone having to enact their full names followed by their intro. It was quite fun, especially with surname tongue twisters. We were 21 of us in total, yet we had time just enough until we reached our destination. In between, we stopped at Kanakapura for breakfast and packing lunch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gvfiDclfhYY/V9O54DU_KfI/AAAAAAAAqc8/cBaE4ys53GAUryVa-2PFo27lJEo6G1vxgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7159.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gvfiDclfhYY/V9O54DU_KfI/AAAAAAAAqc8/cBaE4ys53GAUryVa-2PFo27lJEo6G1vxgCK4B/s320/IMG_7159.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The introductory game had already played the role of ice-breaker and everybody had mingled as a team, many first timers included. It was reflected in their feedback later in the day saying it was a pleasant surprise.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CxgnyFLarH0/V9O58b0-e9I/AAAAAAAAqdE/z4N7-Z5BRhc63SYJgFxzLjX8lkYyTBGcgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7162.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CxgnyFLarH0/V9O58b0-e9I/AAAAAAAAqdE/z4N7-Z5BRhc63SYJgFxzLjX8lkYyTBGcgCK4B/s320/IMG_7162.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajNDBy2PVLk/V9O6CiW9rxI/AAAAAAAAqdM/hUiJJkt_CIoOyJI_9b9U6V9Cvr8W2SGJQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7168.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajNDBy2PVLk/V9O6CiW9rxI/AAAAAAAAqdM/hUiJJkt_CIoOyJI_9b9U6V9Cvr8W2SGJQCK4B/s320/IMG_7168.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Finding the start of trail became an interesting sport as well. We asked a few villagers and had hiked about 10 minutes before we hit a deadend of sorts. Organizers and some volunteers went ahead to talk to school kids out there for wood collecting. While waiting, we continued our various discussions and some photos to boot.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4tV9dYr1AvY/V9O6KBTo7rI/AAAAAAAAqdU/KnV6r2dVyEgLn3yppQ3l54zSPEDRM3o7wCK4B/s1600/IMG_7178.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4tV9dYr1AvY/V9O6KBTo7rI/AAAAAAAAqdU/KnV6r2dVyEgLn3yppQ3l54zSPEDRM3o7wCK4B/s320/IMG_7178.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Turned out we weren't on right track and went back the way we had come. Realizing that there may be confusion in communication with locals, Hiren called up organizer of the only previous trek by BTC to this place. That helped but we weren't fully assured of the landmark given.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hiCE36olJqI/V9O6UZvChyI/AAAAAAAAqdc/g4FOc_e1NXYXf-Lg75nsH2X2ABOlWU-7ACK4B/s1600/IMG_7181.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hiCE36olJqI/V9O6UZvChyI/AAAAAAAAqdc/g4FOc_e1NXYXf-Lg75nsH2X2ABOlWU-7ACK4B/s320/IMG_7181.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EQnq7HDX4zw/V9O6Xdns0NI/AAAAAAAAqdk/u2kZ3m8-77UhNqUFbGhv4QZDH5F9MCq-gCK4B/s1600/IMG_7184.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EQnq7HDX4zw/V9O6Xdns0NI/AAAAAAAAqdk/u2kZ3m8-77UhNqUFbGhv4QZDH5F9MCq-gCK4B/s320/IMG_7184.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5pxScKU-jS0/V9O6fVtAzxI/AAAAAAAAqds/-qi8JXfLJy078LGLycduHJZXv1sBzjtWACK4B/s1600/IMG_7198.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5pxScKU-jS0/V9O6fVtAzxI/AAAAAAAAqds/-qi8JXfLJy078LGLycduHJZXv1sBzjtWACK4B/s320/IMG_7198.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Finally, Hiren and Kamal told us that they'll give their best shot. The response from all of us was positive and even excited to be part of exploration trek. The new trail we picked turned out the right way in the end :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WWzi3nMWv00/V9O6ufRLAdI/AAAAAAAAqd0/hMeHJWx3W88ytSmZVk8_SJWuNknxuTpZACK4B/s1600/IMG_7221.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WWzi3nMWv00/V9O6ufRLAdI/AAAAAAAAqd0/hMeHJWx3W88ytSmZVk8_SJWuNknxuTpZACK4B/s320/IMG_7221.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-32XtCbEv_jU/V9O7DUQe-pI/AAAAAAAAqd8/D9MVBKxmh1EUnl9vDeV2zhDNrGSWsfSmQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7242.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-32XtCbEv_jU/V9O7DUQe-pI/AAAAAAAAqd8/D9MVBKxmh1EUnl9vDeV2zhDNrGSWsfSmQCK4B/s320/IMG_7242.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We could see the hill we were climbing, along with another close-by that one wondered if that steep one could be reached as well. After initial flat path amidst few boulders here and there, we had to climb carefully among tall grasses. We took breaks as often as needed - we had plenty of time on our hands having come with our own transport.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zjIkiQUQPVA/V9O7R8e8r6I/AAAAAAAAqeE/c513PyRnpYs1a2ri9jZd4mzkRmMwn-cxACK4B/s1600/IMG_7255.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zjIkiQUQPVA/V9O7R8e8r6I/AAAAAAAAqeE/c513PyRnpYs1a2ri9jZd4mzkRmMwn-cxACK4B/s320/IMG_7255.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jjJarynXhEw/V9O7aUmP2mI/AAAAAAAAqeM/KoN9i3Ejz2o50iivKyNc92i_Jh2bh6zSQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7266.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jjJarynXhEw/V9O7aUmP2mI/AAAAAAAAqeM/KoN9i3Ejz2o50iivKyNc92i_Jh2bh6zSQCK4B/s320/IMG_7266.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p1cRaZ-Rd4Q/V9O-urGx5oI/AAAAAAAAqho/XCCiaXVg4u8r9apkIVpuV6dwyNfigSgRACK4B/s1600/IMG_7207.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p1cRaZ-Rd4Q/V9O-urGx5oI/AAAAAAAAqho/XCCiaXVg4u8r9apkIVpuV6dwyNfigSgRACK4B/s320/IMG_7207.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Soon we left the bushes and trees to be presented with toughest challenge of the day - a particularly steep slope to climb. The first timers were probably skeptic but we did our best to guide and encourage them. Our constant chit-chatting helped too I think. Slowly but steadily, we climbed that section and took rest again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--4HmSvgpQjM/V9O7esch2-I/AAAAAAAAqeU/M1iQLBXRkdIhssQ_j3zHMEbQZUYJPa_YgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7285.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--4HmSvgpQjM/V9O7esch2-I/AAAAAAAAqeU/M1iQLBXRkdIhssQ_j3zHMEbQZUYJPa_YgCK4B/s320/IMG_7285.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FC8kRHuWvCs/V9O7lFMTtNI/AAAAAAAAqec/8daUgvML8dg8eCFYPVD-PZcZatXPLi1TgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7289.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FC8kRHuWvCs/V9O7lFMTtNI/AAAAAAAAqec/8daUgvML8dg8eCFYPVD-PZcZatXPLi1TgCK4B/s320/IMG_7289.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hiren and co would often go ahead to see if the path was okay to go ahead. Our trail often rounded and hid behind mountain side or large boulders. Some paths were avoided because of thorny bushes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DuGudYZgJ28/V9O7si2EqRI/AAAAAAAAqek/XcAX5ZQCHUozilA4TXv4ITpRKCFiVpwnACK4B/s1600/IMG_7303.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DuGudYZgJ28/V9O7si2EqRI/AAAAAAAAqek/XcAX5ZQCHUozilA4TXv4ITpRKCFiVpwnACK4B/s320/IMG_7303.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JlMrJp2bLzk/V9O70hjixpI/AAAAAAAAqes/WK9qoRg_8xwSpB2Z6yYgIOKV3Ai0FV-2QCK4B/s1600/IMG_7312.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JlMrJp2bLzk/V9O70hjixpI/AAAAAAAAqes/WK9qoRg_8xwSpB2Z6yYgIOKV3Ai0FV-2QCK4B/s320/IMG_7312.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b5tGf3Q-PTQ/V9O73ad9diI/AAAAAAAAqe0/zsLmVFmhufMg2mogZtBZX4b6Bj8gKx_UQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7320.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b5tGf3Q-PTQ/V9O73ad9diI/AAAAAAAAqe0/zsLmVFmhufMg2mogZtBZX4b6Bj8gKx_UQCK4B/s320/IMG_7320.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For some time, the peak was hidden too and we weren't that sure that our trail was going in the right direction. At one spot with particularly large boulders (about mid-way to peak) we could have easily called it a day, had fun and come back. Luckily, the path was easy to find around the boulders and through the plants/trees.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once we crossed that section, the way to peak became much clearer. We rested again and this time took out snacks to have a bite. Kamal took to share <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BangaloreTrekkingClub/videos/1170852366323616/" target="_blank">live video on BTC fb page</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pzJ1igfaKkE/V9O8I43tIeI/AAAAAAAAqe8/fqgUaUuDkFUwjU6GYZvWaJQ1EvjPaQFJACK4B/s1600/IMG_7346.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pzJ1igfaKkE/V9O8I43tIeI/AAAAAAAAqe8/fqgUaUuDkFUwjU6GYZvWaJQ1EvjPaQFJACK4B/s320/IMG_7346.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WJDNxa2htus/V9O8lEgDZTI/AAAAAAAAqfc/Cws7XhRFnOgXEhpGw6w0hxjnddLAzUrtwCK4B/s1600/IMG_7410.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WJDNxa2htus/V9O8lEgDZTI/AAAAAAAAqfc/Cws7XhRFnOgXEhpGw6w0hxjnddLAzUrtwCK4B/s320/IMG_7410.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Having got accustomed to the terrain and peak in sights, we continued on. While some section were steep again, it wasn't that difficult compared to earlier one and continued to break when required. By 1 PM, we reached the peak for a well earned extended rest and lunch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_7ktwmv-348/V9O8qSyy9oI/AAAAAAAAqfk/QngkN1JmHkUyoqZmWKOPNwsSlRjfeAaIACK4B/s1600/IMG_7422.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_7ktwmv-348/V9O8qSyy9oI/AAAAAAAAqfk/QngkN1JmHkUyoqZmWKOPNwsSlRjfeAaIACK4B/s320/IMG_7422.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yOTjL_myt4o/V9O8w6r8kiI/AAAAAAAAqfs/__CaZU7X6rAoY0IjmIMl_y_nhkuQ_kszACK4B/s1600/IMG_7437.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yOTjL_myt4o/V9O8w6r8kiI/AAAAAAAAqfs/__CaZU7X6rAoY0IjmIMl_y_nhkuQ_kszACK4B/s320/IMG_7437.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-duwrWgIhRQQ/V9O87PXzy6I/AAAAAAAAqf0/Z_j6C6Pmi8gY6Ulu-nfYlXp6zx4-wQViQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7456.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-duwrWgIhRQQ/V9O87PXzy6I/AAAAAAAAqf0/Z_j6C6Pmi8gY6Ulu-nfYlXp6zx4-wQViQCK4B/s320/IMG_7456.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_lWlHeW9WI/V9O8_A2Xa9I/AAAAAAAAqf8/GukMzabDE_oXs2VdLssCNcrPyaoTlg3wQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7464.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_lWlHeW9WI/V9O8_A2Xa9I/AAAAAAAAqf8/GukMzabDE_oXs2VdLssCNcrPyaoTlg3wQCK4B/s320/IMG_7464.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A large boulder at the peak proved quite handy for climbing enthusiasts. We would climb, ask others to take pics and then jump off (along with video taken, of course). Soon, we tuck into our meals - the Gujjus had got plenty of <i>theplas</i>, while we also had <i>vaangi</i> bath packed from hotel, snacks, fruits, chocolates, karachi bakery biscuits, etc.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XDNE3d5RmUs/V9O9JYYaQkI/AAAAAAAAqgE/R3AqOyup51A5biPjn0X-jBO5W1eW9Bk1gCK4B/s1600/IMG_7506.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XDNE3d5RmUs/V9O9JYYaQkI/AAAAAAAAqgE/R3AqOyup51A5biPjn0X-jBO5W1eW9Bk1gCK4B/s320/IMG_7506.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-05i7hx-sJwM/V9O9NItB8yI/AAAAAAAAqgM/WPz5dIl648Q9gCi5bOH3SXzqE6EcJCeNACK4B/s1600/IMG_7513.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-05i7hx-sJwM/V9O9NItB8yI/AAAAAAAAqgM/WPz5dIl648Q9gCi5bOH3SXzqE6EcJCeNACK4B/s320/IMG_7513.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We were running short of water though. Despite a cloudy day for most part, only the spot near the boulder at peak had consistent cool breeze. After lazying around for a while, we started our trek back (after group photos, of course). At first, keeping exploration spirit, Hiren and co tried an alternate way back to avoid that steep section. It proved futile and we started the same way back we had come.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-beSOm9cplNE/V9O9d2grUDI/AAAAAAAAqgU/kTUfzGrQQGg-iSBAKfXXI1PO9AlfDprwgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7529.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-beSOm9cplNE/V9O9d2grUDI/AAAAAAAAqgU/kTUfzGrQQGg-iSBAKfXXI1PO9AlfDprwgCK4B/s320/IMG_7529.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RC8_A4zZ9JQ/V9O9naV-yII/AAAAAAAAqgg/g4DjH4l0hq4HA6l3R28vh6XQ599TO05lACK4B/s1600/IMG_7539.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RC8_A4zZ9JQ/V9O9naV-yII/AAAAAAAAqgg/g4DjH4l0hq4HA6l3R28vh6XQ599TO05lACK4B/s320/IMG_7539.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tz04Y8aY1S4/V9O9qIu1yUI/AAAAAAAAqgo/O8CfWq_npfwbT4yt4vJBkIjXSXQD_WqggCK4B/s1600/IMG_7545.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tz04Y8aY1S4/V9O9qIu1yUI/AAAAAAAAqgo/O8CfWq_npfwbT4yt4vJBkIjXSXQD_WqggCK4B/s320/IMG_7545.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XwGZo_1q3kg/V9O9vhcZ9hI/AAAAAAAAqgw/95LSbOnu7lgJSgO_IhuDXdZX-pZwm8UxwCK4B/s1600/IMG_7548.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XwGZo_1q3kg/V9O9vhcZ9hI/AAAAAAAAqgw/95LSbOnu7lgJSgO_IhuDXdZX-pZwm8UxwCK4B/s320/IMG_7548.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Going down was faster as expected, but tricky as well. We made sure the beginners knew about climbing down side ways. We took breaks as well now and then, especially to pass around water whoever had for a sip. The steep section proved to be easier than thought, perhaps because we were used to it by then and members helped each others when required.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OPjX2bgGns0/V9O946sgH6I/AAAAAAAAqg4/VOOQTTbB3E8tkVncn_AZ87R3hoaWlqUgQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7559.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OPjX2bgGns0/V9O946sgH6I/AAAAAAAAqg4/VOOQTTbB3E8tkVncn_AZ87R3hoaWlqUgQCK4B/s320/IMG_7559.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vY9Jc3ELI1E/V9O97xSjJkI/AAAAAAAAqhA/Q9eljFO4O8Q8amRxtEHZXiUV3cjonFsrACK4B/s1600/IMG_7562.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vY9Jc3ELI1E/V9O97xSjJkI/AAAAAAAAqhA/Q9eljFO4O8Q8amRxtEHZXiUV3cjonFsrACK4B/s320/IMG_7562.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JEg5nmOFg0Q/V9O-At5--qI/AAAAAAAAqhI/TK-nmNi6opEM3B2Wd77Ccxnzqd4GpoBZgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7569.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JEg5nmOFg0Q/V9O-At5--qI/AAAAAAAAqhI/TK-nmNi6opEM3B2Wd77Ccxnzqd4GpoBZgCK4B/s320/IMG_7569.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">By 4 PM, we were on our way back. The foremost priority was water and we stopped by a sugarcane juice vendor. While the vendor was busy crushing all the available canes, we tucked into water melons from nearby fruit seller. Everybody had a glass of tasty cane juice (lucky few got second round) and later we stopped again to get 4 two liter water bottles for rest of the journey.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ycm8AugTnc/V9O-RQ4BTrI/AAAAAAAAqhQ/9pZuTo24iA0ukj2n6Ae3j-7KlWlAfbVeACK4B/s1600/IMG_7576.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ycm8AugTnc/V9O-RQ4BTrI/AAAAAAAAqhQ/9pZuTo24iA0ukj2n6Ae3j-7KlWlAfbVeACK4B/s320/IMG_7576.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ctrlvniOeQQ/V9O-VHlzznI/AAAAAAAAqhY/BeEt7hnWPwssi0c31f0JQqaUZuegGma7QCK4B/s1600/IMG_7586.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ctrlvniOeQQ/V9O-VHlzznI/AAAAAAAAqhY/BeEt7hnWPwssi0c31f0JQqaUZuegGma7QCK4B/s320/IMG_7586.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-758lV_oPvIc/V9O-aXi8ISI/AAAAAAAAqhg/b6QYyt0wTVcv3Q3pRBbLa6k8VPkz5xFYgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7608.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-758lV_oPvIc/V9O-aXi8ISI/AAAAAAAAqhg/b6QYyt0wTVcv3Q3pRBbLa6k8VPkz5xFYgCK4B/s320/IMG_7608.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We then had feedback session, positive all around as usual. Especially good to hear first timers had loads of fun. Then while we were deciding to play Dumb Charades or Antakshri, a new game was suggested - <i>Ping-Pong-Name</i>. We took a while to grasp the rules. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qf3w-B1jGM8/V9O-1QQL4BI/AAAAAAAAqhw/3ducTay2RNsq1f7nFI09osvbTUx-SYU2QCK4B/s1600/IMG_7598.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qf3w-B1jGM8/V9O-1QQL4BI/AAAAAAAAqhw/3ducTay2RNsq1f7nFI09osvbTUx-SYU2QCK4B/s320/IMG_7598.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'll do my best to describe: Everybody picks a name other than his/her name (same name can't be taken by two or more). Then we decide on order of play (like who starts and who follows). The game starts with first person saying Ping. The fellow with next turn has to say Pong. And the next one has to say a name other than the one allocated (own name is allowed, because someone else would be assigned that name). Whatever name is said, the person allocated has to start the cycle again by saying Ping. The main criteria being one has to say Ping/Pong/Name quickly. Those who take long or say their own allocated name get three chance before ousted from the game. When that happens, the name they were allocated was struck off and remaining players had to be careful to avoid those names. It turned out to be loads of fun once we got the hang of it. Though, lesser number of players would have been more manageable ;) Pro-tip: Avoid picking name easy to pick or relatively famous ;)</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-20620502469547929722016-08-31T22:11:00.001+05:302016-08-31T22:11:40.641+05:30Go Green at Yeshwanthpur - 6 Aug, 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">My second Go Green event with <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/" target="_blank">BTC</a> and <a href="http://saytrees.org/" target="_blank">SayTrees</a>. It was satisfying experience and memorable, like the <a href="https://sundeep-sp.blogspot.in/2016/08/go-green-at-kudlu-doddakere-16-jul-2016.html" target="_blank">first one</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Being far from my place, I saw how to reach the place on Google maps the previous evening. Coincidentally, Hiren and his friend were also taking metro from Indiranagar to Majestic. From there, we decided to take bus instead of going to Mantri mall for metro to Yeshwanthpur industrial stop. We also had our breakfast at Majestic.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jU0GrXmz33U/V8bGmhik3HI/AAAAAAAApxA/6RW8i4QXgWkyy9lb1e9fsxp5vV6fQYpSACK4B/s1600/IMG_7077.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jU0GrXmz33U/V8bGmhik3HI/AAAAAAAApxA/6RW8i4QXgWkyy9lb1e9fsxp5vV6fQYpSACK4B/s320/IMG_7077.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Courtesy GPS, we got down and walked about 10 minutes to reach the venue (met Srikanth on the way, going on his bike). This event was to cover quite a large area - a dump yard near Yeshwanthpur railway station being converted to forest.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F_2RtDhlKuI/V8bGq7LNTKI/AAAAAAAApxI/GHPwSlgVL-YlZ7kuB2rHQpl8eUWGmYbbwCK4B/s1600/IMG_7080.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F_2RtDhlKuI/V8bGq7LNTKI/AAAAAAAApxI/GHPwSlgVL-YlZ7kuB2rHQpl8eUWGmYbbwCK4B/s320/IMG_7080.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Apart from us BTCians, other teams, mainly from corporate and school/college were participating. Organizers from SayTrees gave an introductory talk about the event before we hiked to plantation site.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CC5jshi8q5Y/V8bHAUs0qyI/AAAAAAAApxQ/gm4IOO027joAcyi_BaDV0Dc4usadprangCK4B/s1600/IMG_7096.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CC5jshi8q5Y/V8bHAUs0qyI/AAAAAAAApxQ/gm4IOO027joAcyi_BaDV0Dc4usadprangCK4B/s320/IMG_7096.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U33b94QF9Bk/V8bHD2orrkI/AAAAAAAApxY/pt8U_jdqvjgG7vEITqN_-LNSV-jiHnzuQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7095.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U33b94QF9Bk/V8bHD2orrkI/AAAAAAAApxY/pt8U_jdqvjgG7vEITqN_-LNSV-jiHnzuQCK4B/s320/IMG_7095.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Preparation work of the site like digging, saplings, support sticks, manure, tools, etc had been done preceding week itself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the site, organizers went through the plantation process with help of a chart first and then a live demo. The various teams were divided and allocated different spots to cover.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9mfnQblWaM/V8bHhJAZXTI/AAAAAAAApx0/ei8x-rcKRL8vGHLwmN1buf78JngBZY4ZgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7111.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9mfnQblWaM/V8bHhJAZXTI/AAAAAAAApx0/ei8x-rcKRL8vGHLwmN1buf78JngBZY4ZgCK4B/s320/IMG_7111.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We were given the farthest plot. We took our hoes on the way, saplings and other stuff were near the pits. Kamalesh gave a demo for our benefit and finally we got planting. A few more BTC members arrived to lend a hand as had started work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NIjiArAPbas/V8bIBADpD7I/AAAAAAAApyU/xQEus5Tze_A27gja-8wkTU5WqrYCnQqnwCK4B/s1600/IMG_7130.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NIjiArAPbas/V8bIBADpD7I/AAAAAAAApyU/xQEus5Tze_A27gja-8wkTU5WqrYCnQqnwCK4B/s320/IMG_7130.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HkNVdEXvfsQ/V8bIE0_YlwI/AAAAAAAApyc/z9vNGmLj0c8iRY9uMm06hH-59vAunAKbQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7131.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HkNVdEXvfsQ/V8bIE0_YlwI/AAAAAAAApyc/z9vNGmLj0c8iRY9uMm06hH-59vAunAKbQCK4B/s320/IMG_7131.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-Wm0H6a9KE/V8bIQy3i6gI/AAAAAAAApyk/NS3me7iEnyoYDD7E4E_L5pW050Ey8b_sgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7139.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-Wm0H6a9KE/V8bIQy3i6gI/AAAAAAAApyk/NS3me7iEnyoYDD7E4E_L5pW050Ey8b_sgCK4B/s320/IMG_7139.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After finishing the farthest strip, we moved back and took the large plot about 5 feet below the surrounding. First we formed human chains to pass on saplings and other stuff from top to various parts. Then we continued our planting. Some members took to co-ordinating, some to pass manure, some to collect the plastic covers, etc</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-izD4_Do-MYU/V8bIjNJnVAI/AAAAAAAApy8/dGnrefw5-sw8IsLG3FrkJg2PASBW0DFLwCK4B/s1600/IMG_7142.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-izD4_Do-MYU/V8bIjNJnVAI/AAAAAAAApy8/dGnrefw5-sw8IsLG3FrkJg2PASBW0DFLwCK4B/s320/IMG_7142.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Around noon, we started sharing snacks we had brought and our organizers went a step above by getting snacks/cold-drinks from nearby shops. They tasted very sweet after our hard labour ;)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Syq13OrrCho/V8bIdnvlClI/AAAAAAAApy0/TqFWtwqHQFgA9L37FQlCgVRtZ1T9nXbmACK4B/s1600/IMG_7149.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Syq13OrrCho/V8bIdnvlClI/AAAAAAAApy0/TqFWtwqHQFgA9L37FQlCgVRtZ1T9nXbmACK4B/s320/IMG_7149.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J-x9HVO0Mgs/V8bIZtqM3fI/AAAAAAAApys/3-tLogW-sgYUqYq7CbJjRfZX6Couq4liQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7154.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J-x9HVO0Mgs/V8bIZtqM3fI/AAAAAAAApys/3-tLogW-sgYUqYq7CbJjRfZX6Couq4liQCK4B/s320/IMG_7154.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After snack lunch, we continued as long as possible. Then like always, we had intro and feedback session before dispersing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Every time it rains, I think of those saplings getting water :P Waiting for maintenance drives post monsoon to go visit them :)</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396134920498396875.post-50113118092718430062016-08-17T19:34:00.000+05:302016-08-17T19:34:18.397+05:30Exploration trek to Ramadevara Betta (Tumakuru) - 31 July, 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another weekend, another <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/" target="_blank">BTC</a> event :P My first exploration trek with them to make it a different experience though :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We took a passenger train from Majestic to Kyatsandra. The train was late, but 15 minutes wasn't agonizing like the <a href="http://www.bangaloretrekkingclub.com/2016/08/my-1st-trek-kuntibetta.html" target="_blank">other trek to Kuntibetta</a> :P It had rained overnight and cloudy morning carried threat of rain during trek as well. Thankfully it didn't and gave us a pleasant weather instead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We didn't get close seating for our 20 member group. Most took to sleeping anyway, having got up early in the morning. The little talk we had centered around previous treks and plantation drives. We reached Kyatsandra at 9:40 AM and had delicious <i>thatte idlis</i> in a nearby hotel. Also got parcel for lunch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rnDXwHtaALM/V7RhhM_0OtI/AAAAAAAApo4/7CuafBAPYu8qV_puYIwWrDIRvFDu57AHACK4B/s1600/IMG_6549.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rnDXwHtaALM/V7RhhM_0OtI/AAAAAAAApo4/7CuafBAPYu8qV_puYIwWrDIRvFDu57AHACK4B/s320/IMG_6549.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XYe5wmb-CC4/V7Rh7u7gx9I/AAAAAAAAppA/SWI6lqejA4w96dHB1OhJVhlGZeDDCZhmQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6551.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XYe5wmb-CC4/V7Rh7u7gx9I/AAAAAAAAppA/SWI6lqejA4w96dHB1OhJVhlGZeDDCZhmQCK4B/s320/IMG_6551.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After breakfast, we walked back to station and took a narrow path, surrounded by tall bushes, towards the hill. 25 minute walk later (having crossed the village and a school) we halted near the base of hill for introductory session. Channa and Arun reminded us of BTC policies and then we were on our way again.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k9vuHgxqFEE/V7RidwXd36I/AAAAAAAAppY/1dYZNhNk1csvxUBl4vBJTWcotAtI3ZVkgCK4B/s1600/IMG_6563.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k9vuHgxqFEE/V7RidwXd36I/AAAAAAAAppY/1dYZNhNk1csvxUBl4vBJTWcotAtI3ZVkgCK4B/s320/IMG_6563.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Keeping exploratory trek in spirit, we skipped well beaten track and wandered amidst thorny bushes, plants and trees. Somewhere along, two kids became our local guides in addition to guide duty shouldered by Sharath.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRcEcDTPnxM/V7RjAVHhLAI/AAAAAAAApp8/Y7skMuub7UoZsT6KyMOGRSVIbxYAScPEwCK4B/s1600/IMG_6596.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRcEcDTPnxM/V7RjAVHhLAI/AAAAAAAApp8/Y7skMuub7UoZsT6KyMOGRSVIbxYAScPEwCK4B/s320/IMG_6596.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-albP1oQmWOA/V7RjRGdyfpI/AAAAAAAApqM/QwuRPQgTULAzR7r3XocKTQSunFeKi6v-ACK4B/s1600/IMG_6610.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-albP1oQmWOA/V7RjRGdyfpI/AAAAAAAApqM/QwuRPQgTULAzR7r3XocKTQSunFeKi6v-ACK4B/s320/IMG_6610.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Apart from having to duck and escape thorny bushes, the steepness of path took time to adjust as well. Occasionally some needed assistance to scale rocky path. Soon we joined the regular path and could trek more freely.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yT4nvPuBNP0/V7RmWzHweaI/AAAAAAAApqY/GbWzv3dChQo_TeP2CEhmZplAZRG8iBvZQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6627.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yT4nvPuBNP0/V7RmWzHweaI/AAAAAAAApqY/GbWzv3dChQo_TeP2CEhmZplAZRG8iBvZQCK4B/s320/IMG_6627.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We took frequent rest - to catch a breadth, drink water or chance to cool our profusely sweating selves. And obviously with so many photographers, requests for snaps kept coming. I had a great day spotting and clicking insects and flowers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-poAKLueFPf4/V7RmujGHnAI/AAAAAAAApqw/QkZxQm5dznYvlpdi4lNrWP-AkZCRiucCgCK4B/s1600/IMG_6651.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-poAKLueFPf4/V7RmujGHnAI/AAAAAAAApqw/QkZxQm5dznYvlpdi4lNrWP-AkZCRiucCgCK4B/s320/IMG_6651.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Around 11:30 AM, we spotted other trekkers (seemed locals from nearby places) coming down. There is a temple and pond at the peak - could see some of them had taken a dip. Our group got roughly divided in two - with the second group lagging by about 5 minutes. We would wait sometimes for them to catch up before continuing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RS-heJvAjT0/V7Rm6rDnHuI/AAAAAAAAprA/W885x8LZvn0DCYPn7RDe-0DXqQunloxBACK4B/s1600/IMG_6660.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RS-heJvAjT0/V7Rm6rDnHuI/AAAAAAAAprA/W885x8LZvn0DCYPn7RDe-0DXqQunloxBACK4B/s320/IMG_6660.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After a 10 minute break, during which blessedly a breeze cooled us, we moved on. Soon we were amongst trees and bushes again. And the occasional assisted climbs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hW6zkeovamE/V7RnQ5prx7I/AAAAAAAAprc/JxkQWsTsoBwrux9oJadg7UIjL_X3vGalQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6683.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hW6zkeovamE/V7RnQ5prx7I/AAAAAAAAprc/JxkQWsTsoBwrux9oJadg7UIjL_X3vGalQCK4B/s320/IMG_6683.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Exploratory trek struck again - the group in front took a difficult path and eventually turned back, while the other group took the easier route and reached the peak first :P</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rap15nAM_mg/V7RncLOVsbI/AAAAAAAAprk/-x5WQaSIhX4KE49viM1fUTAsgOgpF5fTQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6691.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rap15nAM_mg/V7RncLOVsbI/AAAAAAAAprk/-x5WQaSIhX4KE49viM1fUTAsgOgpF5fTQCK4B/s320/IMG_6691.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9vuMOOEMVc0/V7RnhSI5F7I/AAAAAAAAprs/bkIciC-7fdk79uQLkOOXRpvzeaiWroqOQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6705.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9vuMOOEMVc0/V7RnhSI5F7I/AAAAAAAAprs/bkIciC-7fdk79uQLkOOXRpvzeaiWroqOQCK4B/s320/IMG_6705.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7NyeUMqisYE/V7Rnt6oLwXI/AAAAAAAApr0/m613OfUQHKo_UGZIdFpsDLr9n-P8jzCIQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6714.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7NyeUMqisYE/V7Rnt6oLwXI/AAAAAAAApr0/m613OfUQHKo_UGZIdFpsDLr9n-P8jzCIQCK4B/s320/IMG_6714.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">20 mintues after noon, everybody reached the pond at the peak. Plenty of lotus. Close by was the temple. We explored the peak for a while, took in the beauty of hills around, the village below, spotting the train station, path we had taken. And snaps for posterity.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BZ_762L1rww/V7Rn-vZutpI/AAAAAAAApsI/271qgO4ojyo-6nny7OQVKSrrhV6uLZfYQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6739.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BZ_762L1rww/V7Rn-vZutpI/AAAAAAAApsI/271qgO4ojyo-6nny7OQVKSrrhV6uLZfYQCK4B/s320/IMG_6739.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tigC4PdkMck/V7RoISattTI/AAAAAAAApsQ/leWDYE_CiU4ME09dire497i90iiea_UGwCK4B/s1600/IMG_6743.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tigC4PdkMck/V7RoISattTI/AAAAAAAApsQ/leWDYE_CiU4ME09dire497i90iiea_UGwCK4B/s320/IMG_6743.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g8QA9XUBYWc/V7RoP6xv09I/AAAAAAAApsY/s6IjCPHTyukoM6fdcS90hC9oG1PPb6rbQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6779.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g8QA9XUBYWc/V7RoP6xv09I/AAAAAAAApsY/s6IjCPHTyukoM6fdcS90hC9oG1PPb6rbQCK4B/s320/IMG_6779.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZP7bfjZ1D3Y/V7RoWCWKQNI/AAAAAAAApsg/8_WrMgSrzcMTyiC66i4U5obrATM-tBfPACK4B/s1600/IMG_6784.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZP7bfjZ1D3Y/V7RoWCWKQNI/AAAAAAAApsg/8_WrMgSrzcMTyiC66i4U5obrATM-tBfPACK4B/s320/IMG_6784.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then we hiked to the other ends of this rather vast hill top. It was bare rock someplace and lush green elsewhere. Apart from the temple, there were few sections of fortified walls as well. The grassy path was slushy from rain at some spots. And we passed by another pool, sans lotus and algae cover at one end. Little further, we spotted two mushrooms!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EQwKOJygZig/V7Rob3ehsqI/AAAAAAAApso/Ef30QcoN8_Uf-bvI8CcHtNZKPGx7vdi4wCK4B/s1600/IMG_6794.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EQwKOJygZig/V7Rob3ehsqI/AAAAAAAApso/Ef30QcoN8_Uf-bvI8CcHtNZKPGx7vdi4wCK4B/s320/IMG_6794.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7yR-Qm8RBro/V7Roh3dsx9I/AAAAAAAApsw/fkDEBFiax3QE7pGbR3Kn6OyS3w13Eeu4QCK4B/s1600/IMG_6810.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7yR-Qm8RBro/V7Roh3dsx9I/AAAAAAAApsw/fkDEBFiax3QE7pGbR3Kn6OyS3w13Eeu4QCK4B/s320/IMG_6810.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VFYGtOXor8c/V7RorJ2shoI/AAAAAAAAptE/_8RQ5ndB78gIOLRZmvniLpppbDDws_CmACK4B/s1600/IMG_6866.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VFYGtOXor8c/V7RorJ2shoI/AAAAAAAAptE/_8RQ5ndB78gIOLRZmvniLpppbDDws_CmACK4B/s320/IMG_6866.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n1dA-Uq_wcM/V7RpGAJInOI/AAAAAAAAptU/YMRRv8munvQbcdlm5Omh8nWdT4QQSoOQwCK4B/s1600/IMG_6863.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n1dA-Uq_wcM/V7RpGAJInOI/AAAAAAAAptU/YMRRv8munvQbcdlm5Omh8nWdT4QQSoOQwCK4B/s320/IMG_6863.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-isIrzCi8VpU/V7Ro6W6x0BI/AAAAAAAAptM/TkR_zKcHnU4ch8ETnSwR3fYgeW2TlfdQQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6893.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-isIrzCi8VpU/V7Ro6W6x0BI/AAAAAAAAptM/TkR_zKcHnU4ch8ETnSwR3fYgeW2TlfdQQCK4B/s320/IMG_6893.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We then spent 10 minutes just so everybody can crawl through gap between boulders :P And on the other side, adventurous trekkers scaled more boulders. After group pics, organizers told us we would be having lunch nearby. Few of us weren't satiated with various photos taken just yet and by the time we were finished, we lost track of those ahead :-/</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NaA_XgW9Ftk/V7RpQBSz4xI/AAAAAAAAptg/5YotbiX05FgqBgmVfaUZRY6yj1247bWmACK4B/s1600/IMG_6905.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NaA_XgW9Ftk/V7RpQBSz4xI/AAAAAAAAptg/5YotbiX05FgqBgmVfaUZRY6yj1247bWmACK4B/s320/IMG_6905.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We shouted Channa's name a few times with no luck. Assuming they had gone to have lunch by the lotus pond, we went there only to discover they weren't there. Belatedly, we remembered that we should have tried to call them on mobile :P The signal was erratic, but we were able to call and let them know our position. As we were right by the trek path, we sat down to have lunch and wait for others to join us (or we would have trekked down and waited). One good thing to come out was the interesting bug I got to click :P</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GLWwigQBnbg/V7Rp7c6ZOSI/AAAAAAAAptw/j5eirwPyNOEaZv9f0qwt0YcJHTBhHSvqwCK4B/s1600/IMG_6908.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GLWwigQBnbg/V7Rp7c6ZOSI/AAAAAAAAptw/j5eirwPyNOEaZv9f0qwt0YcJHTBhHSvqwCK4B/s320/IMG_6908.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9OOPmUXKheg/V7Rp-VMsGKI/AAAAAAAApt4/4ATkqmcXO0UgiEVpBLV9rXcUL0pV7TO4ACK4B/s1600/IMG_6909.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9OOPmUXKheg/V7Rp-VMsGKI/AAAAAAAApt4/4ATkqmcXO0UgiEVpBLV9rXcUL0pV7TO4ACK4B/s320/IMG_6909.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Instead, Arun hiked all the way to our end and we went with him to their spot. Everybody else had finished lunch as well. I had bought a box of <i>soan papdi</i> after breakfast earlier in the day. After Sesha tried to pass it as his birthday sweets, I recalled that it was my birthday 2 days later. But kept quiet as Sesha was already getting mock birthday-bumps :P</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nydwvwfX6ko/V7Rqa-wVWhI/AAAAAAAApuA/7IFtWsy1yOgJEe2SA3NHUqpjPmmbGPdLgCK4B/s1600/IMG_6916.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nydwvwfX6ko/V7Rqa-wVWhI/AAAAAAAApuA/7IFtWsy1yOgJEe2SA3NHUqpjPmmbGPdLgCK4B/s320/IMG_6916.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x42386d1br0/V7RqrsRubmI/AAAAAAAApuM/m7AVrk7LhAA3t48SWGTjXGFuBAim4UFpQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6929.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x42386d1br0/V7RqrsRubmI/AAAAAAAApuM/m7AVrk7LhAA3t48SWGTjXGFuBAim4UFpQCK4B/s320/IMG_6929.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We took more group pics and selfies before starting our descent few minutes to 2 PM. And still keeping our exploratory spirits, we braved the thorny bushes for about 10 minutes. Irony wasn't lost on the few of us who had completed an extra round on the peak only to pass through this :-/ :P</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1PB9Y_0JPCo/V7Rq4qfIuhI/AAAAAAAApuU/zIaA7Yyv178wwFlZvOSaOsd7HtY3zXQHQCK4B/s1600/IMG_6945.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1PB9Y_0JPCo/V7Rq4qfIuhI/AAAAAAAApuU/zIaA7Yyv178wwFlZvOSaOsd7HtY3zXQHQCK4B/s320/IMG_6945.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3V0zlnHDA1E/V7Rq80kTRoI/AAAAAAAApuc/5NbMu2qaFiQx67I7QVYdVEC9BbhqxZypgCK4B/s1600/IMG_6952.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3V0zlnHDA1E/V7Rq80kTRoI/AAAAAAAApuc/5NbMu2qaFiQx67I7QVYdVEC9BbhqxZypgCK4B/s320/IMG_6952.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-huVbGL_n3RA/V7RrFDkPKqI/AAAAAAAApuk/KDStgf4aOTI9atyvxaPDwnOYrj10-9BJACK4B/s1600/IMG_6965.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-huVbGL_n3RA/V7RrFDkPKqI/AAAAAAAApuk/KDStgf4aOTI9atyvxaPDwnOYrj10-9BJACK4B/s320/IMG_6965.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AS-FbL1b1GM/V7RrJhG1blI/AAAAAAAApuw/xoo4zHFLBjIwriEr7lVu6wizfJZcrXcJACK4B/s1600/IMG_6974.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AS-FbL1b1GM/V7RrJhG1blI/AAAAAAAApuw/xoo4zHFLBjIwriEr7lVu6wizfJZcrXcJACK4B/s320/IMG_6974.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--GTi1zJLLSM/V7RrTn3NkmI/AAAAAAAApu4/wY21ovRxAmI8CvqN88slYzS9FIf4QGsmACK4B/s1600/IMG_7003.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--GTi1zJLLSM/V7RrTn3NkmI/AAAAAAAApu4/wY21ovRxAmI8CvqN88slYzS9FIf4QGsmACK4B/s320/IMG_7003.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1D7wbU99ajU/V7Rripi9LLI/AAAAAAAApvA/LGNSrsvVU5wzRi_DWNfSTEM_RS2kbUs8wCK4B/s1600/IMG_7017.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1D7wbU99ajU/V7Rripi9LLI/AAAAAAAApvA/LGNSrsvVU5wzRi_DWNfSTEM_RS2kbUs8wCK4B/s320/IMG_7017.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">An hour of easy descent later, those in front waited for others to catch up. I hadn't eaten lunch as I wasn't hungry having had sumptuous breakfast. So I had it then while waiting. It was still very delicious - closest I can remember of such a tasty packed lunch from prior treks is <i>Vaangibath</i> in <a href="https://sundeep-sp.blogspot.in/2014/09/channarayana-durga-day-trek-31-august.html" target="_blank">Channarayana durga trek</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ua05D4kWIjA/V7RroCrisnI/AAAAAAAApvI/_6ipGWuUjiYwi9g5kd29zssF2UsPqgb7wCK4B/s1600/IMG_7025.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ua05D4kWIjA/V7RroCrisnI/AAAAAAAApvI/_6ipGWuUjiYwi9g5kd29zssF2UsPqgb7wCK4B/s320/IMG_7025.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d-K7jUf32tY/V7RrtmYa1oI/AAAAAAAApvQ/6fOQEw-q8zkKlIz3nrOS8J7j7BhxAcXAACK4B/s1600/IMG_7029.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d-K7jUf32tY/V7RrtmYa1oI/AAAAAAAApvQ/6fOQEw-q8zkKlIz3nrOS8J7j7BhxAcXAACK4B/s320/IMG_7029.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PqYOiTQfWog/V7Rr1oF4myI/AAAAAAAApvY/bnKwlImQMcEebYOi8ldb4G8Oh33z6pPRwCK4B/s1600/IMG_7041.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PqYOiTQfWog/V7Rr1oF4myI/AAAAAAAApvY/bnKwlImQMcEebYOi8ldb4G8Oh33z6pPRwCK4B/s320/IMG_7041.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSqlk3_HCXU/V7Rr51dXwuI/AAAAAAAApvg/rystcwjjwBIwGa8hF0w2trZCfuZRlCcfQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7045.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSqlk3_HCXU/V7Rr51dXwuI/AAAAAAAApvg/rystcwjjwBIwGa8hF0w2trZCfuZRlCcfQCK4B/s320/IMG_7045.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Half an hour later, we reached the station. Plenty of time to run and buy cold drinks and have feedback session. Expenses came to a grand total of Rs 130, including BTC fund of Rs 4. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcG73k46NSI/V7Rsbuze_SI/AAAAAAAApvo/aKzXOFeMiiILvCoQBADNQHR6-rXtgmiEQCK4B/s1600/IMG_7065.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcG73k46NSI/V7Rsbuze_SI/AAAAAAAApvo/aKzXOFeMiiILvCoQBADNQHR6-rXtgmiEQCK4B/s320/IMG_7065.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iVQlZeIMf8I/V7RsqB_9mvI/AAAAAAAApvw/la0GQmRKXb46xK5snANcQfmIjXiGIj4ZgCK4B/s1600/IMG_7050.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iVQlZeIMf8I/V7RsqB_9mvI/AAAAAAAApvw/la0GQmRKXb46xK5snANcQfmIjXiGIj4ZgCK4B/s320/IMG_7050.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">On our way back to Bengaluru, initially we were spread out. Then most of us gathered to play dumb charades. It was fun and hair tearing for few :P (during feedback it was highlighted that we didn't get a chance for fun activities at the peak, so it was good from that perspective as well)</span></div>
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Sundeephttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01660443938033329901noreply@blogger.com1