Konquering Kumara Parvatha - 23,24 Jan 2016

While the previous visit was memorable and disappointing for different reasons, not being able to reach the finishing line rankled the most. And what better way to finally do it than the wonderful company of BTC.

With Republic Day falling on a Tuesday this year, Friday evening rush was worse than normal weekends. Fortunately, with traveling distance less than 300 KM, schedule was flexible. We gathered at the usual spot (Shanthala Silk house near Majestic) along with another group going for Tadiandamol - greeting old timers and chit-chatting on treks, sleeping bags and mats. From our 12 member group, I already knew organizers Channa and Hiren, fellow trekkers Naresh, Prakash, Sathesh, Aditya. Ananya, Jackson, Mukunda, Sushma and Poornima became familiar by end of trek :)

Around 11 PM, we started our journey. A quick round of introduction followed the fuel stop and then we tried our best to catch some sleep despite our crazy speeding driver. At one of the regular stops around 4 AM, some of us had tea/coffee and some had dosas! Around 5 AM, 1-2 KM from Kukke Subramanya, we stopped by the Kumaradhara river to freshen up. The place had restroom facilities, changing rooms, sort of mini-dam to make about 100m of bathing space, large parking lot, sellers and public announcement system! Lots of people were having bath and using the amenities, presumably to visit the temple at Kukke later.

After reaching Kukke Subramanya, we first went to temple. Plenty of devotees were already in queue. After darshan time (6:30 AM), we moved at a steady pace. Once outside, we had breakfast - idli-vadas, Mangalore buns, neer dosas - topped up with tea/coffee.

It was then time for trekking. We left extra baggage in the TT, packed our bags to carry sleeping bags, mats and tents. On the way, we filled our water bottles at the hotel, brought milk and other items as may be needed later. After a minor wrong turn, we were on our way to starting point (also noted that a trekking gears rent shop had been put up) which took us 30 minutes to reach.

Before venturing into forest, Channa and Hiren re-iterated BTC policies and we introduced ourselves again. And of course, we clicked photos :P The steep forest trail is the toughest part of this trek. Like within 10 minutes we were taking a break :P We sweat profusely, which takes a bit to get used to. Though this time it wasn't as much as my previous attempt in Sep 2012, when apart from sweating I felt as if I had 105 degrees of fever.

So, we would climb for 10 minutes or so, those in front waiting for everybody to catch up, catch our breadth and continue. Rinse. Repeat. Little trekking nuggets thrown in here and there. And when opportunity presents for bit of fun - like clinging onto tree trunks with legs and/or arms, we made sure our photos were snapped. 

 

 

Uprooted trees, twisted trunks, spider nests on the ground wrapping leaves and smaller plants, fungus on trees, other trekkers - all contrasts in otherwise monotonic climb. There is also a waterfall somewhere in the middle (which we didn't visit) if one is attentive enough to hear it or notice a small path deviating. Took us about 100 minutes from start of forest to winding paths outside. And that is impressive I would say, though admittedly our early start was very helpful. Unlike those we met the next day, climbing up in sweltering conditions.

Outside the forest clearing, while waiting for others to catch, we observed some fist sized, quick and super cute birds chirping. There wasn't any hurry and we were beginning to find it increasingly difficult to climb, but somehow we kept at it - the rationale being to finish the ordeal asap. We even pushed each other like - lets finish this upward curve, it is flatter afterwards, when it was just more climbing the other side :D

Around 10:40 AM, about two-and-a-half-hours of trekking later, we stopped for a long break under the shade of a tree. Aditya took out first of his Rasna (remember the brand?) packet to mix with water and everybody had a sip. Just a tiny weeny bit of breeze now and then was soothing. Little did we know the grass around this spot would be ashes when we came back the next day.

Just before 11:30 AM, we reached Battarmane (run by an elderly guy, providing shelter and more importantly food), passing smaller hills around us and glimpse of tall ranges ahead. Too many trekkers were already feasting and resting. We settled down amidst trees, maintained by the old guy in front of his huts. It was a bit early for lunch, but we were hungry enough that a short while later, we were having sambhar rice (few lucky ones got left over upma from breakfast) with pickle and buttermilk to go with. Aditya again had snacks to share.

 
Post lunch, everybody spread out to rest. Some laid down on mother earth, some on sleeping mat and some on mats padded with sleeping bags and bed sheet tied across trees for shade :P A few just leaned against not so comfortable trees for chit-chat. By trees I mean tall and narrow pines and bananas. Cattle roamed about eating grass and leaves, cats in search of left-overs and petting while monkeys jumped about above us.

Two hours later, reluctantly in the heat, we packed to trek the short distance (10 minute hike, even shorter if one takes the path amidst those pine trees) to forest office. We knew and expected, but it was still a disappointment to be denied permission to trek to peak or even Kallumantappa and camp for the night. That is a standing decision since the forest fire last December and we saw for ourselves the devastating effects the next day.

Space in front of forest officer's place looked like flattened and cleared (except for grass of course) for trekkers to camp. And sections naturally separated as well. Some were already occupied. We got a good patch more than enough for our 5 tents with three previously used camp fire spaces. As it was pretty hot, we only marked our region by spreading tent base. Our bags were in shade at the officer's place. 

 
A short distance behind the forest office, there is a view point with benches to boot. And another view point is located 10-15 minute climb on the trail ahead. We discussed a bit about visiting that, but didn't materialize. Majority of the afternoon was spent lazying around, chit-chatting and sleeping. Plenty of guava trees around but no ripe fruit. Some climbed to next hill, some just visited the small pond nearby.

Around 4 PM, boredom finally gave way to few rounds of Uno, which we played despite the overhead merciless Sun. We modified the end game and even made up interesting game play with the two void purple cards. Past 5 PM, we tried to see if we could camp near the view point instead. While there was space for a few tents (which others utilized in the end), we decided to stay put.

So, we put up our tents and then went to view point as light started to fade. Lots and lots of trekkers and plenty still coming. Clouds spoiled sunset but we did take plenty of pictures. The view was good all around as well. We trudged back soon to prepare for camp fire. Everybody participated by collecting dry sticks from all around the area and in the end we had more then enough.

The forest officer went rounds to see people were careful with camp fires and gave suggestions as well. We even got a large cooking vessel which made things much easier for us. Thanks all the cooks for tasty coffee followed by soup (and those who got the materials). By then, it was 20 minutes past 7 PM and we decided to continue with dinner preparation - Hiren had brought Theplas, Naresh had two packs of half-cooked rotis (and importantly pickle jars) and others had got ready-to-eat MTR packs, cup noodles and even ready-to-mix poha. The most interesting of it all was the natural tava to heat the rotis! One of the most memorable dinner fest for sure.

The nearly full moon got a chance to shine now and then. We got music going - thanks to Sushma's bluetooth loudspeaker (Channa had a great time pranking others by getting hold of channel just before the new guy could connect). Aditya and Sushma led the way for dancing. Around 9:30 PM, the officer made another round asking people to put out camp fire and shut shop by 10 PM. Since we had plans for pre-dawn trekking the next day, we were already winding up.

Compared to Bengaluru, the weather wasn't cold. Some even slept outside tent on sleeping mat while some left the tent front open so as to not feel stuffy inside. We got much better sleep than the TT journey but most were woken up around 2 AM - of all reasons, for cattle grazing nearby! The fellows sleeping outside tent took to shooing them off.

Around 4 AM, we woke up, freshened up, packed our bags, mats and tents. We took only absolutely necessary stuff for trekking - two liters of water, stuff for breakfast and snacks, leaving rest of the items in forest officer's room. Some groups had left even earlier than us, still starting at 5:15 AM in the morning felt really early

 
It took us about 15 minutes to reach the next view point. With the moon shining bright and straight forward trail, the relatively gentle climb to start with served as excellent warm-up for our stiff legs. It also helped that we were carrying much lighter baggage. Now and then we would stop for everybody to gather, sip a mouthful of water and take snaps.

As it was nearing dawn, Channa asked Naresh to lead fast trekkers to appropriate hill for sunrise. In effect, most of us just climbed at our natural pace. Hearing stream to our right meant we were nearing Kallumantappa which we reached by 6:30 AM. It was still dark enough to require flash for clicking pics. Naresh and few others were ahead climbing, while we thought Channa was behind and taking it easy until he caught us. Little did we know he had skipped this route, taken a shorter path, and was waiting for us when we finally rounded the hill!

This little section was steeper as well as footing was risky on tiny stones. The blackness from forest fire was all there to see as well - but life goes on and there were new green shoots rising from ashes. Looking back, we could see the path we had trekked and as far as the forest office and nearby view point. Thinking on it felt surreal to have covered so much distance in the early hours of morning.

By 7 AM, huffing and puffing from the climb, we saw what our fast trekkers were upto - climbing an even more steeper path to hill top, with an awesome view of golden sun rays gracing the misty sea of clouds. 

After a prolonged break and photoshoot with beautiful nature, we set our sight on scaling Sesha Parvatha (Kumara Parvatha isn't visible anyway from this side :P). A sign board helpfully pointed the way with estimated distance of 2 KM to KP peak - not sure on what criteria was it measured, but it took us about 2 hours, including breakfast halt time.

Around 8 AM, with Sun blazing in all its glory directly in front of us, we flagged Sesha Parvatha. We met a few trekkers on their way down and a few about to finish their breakfast on their way up. We first gobbled up two bread packs with jam. Then Channa and Poornima surprised us all with bunch of home made lightly stuffed chappathis - the pickle jars came in handy again. Two khakra packets went in next. Finally oranges - doubled as thirst quencher as well its outer skin for washing hands!

Half an hour past 8, we were onto the final stretch. I was thrilled that my resolve of more than 3 years was about to be fulfilled. The trail first led into forest - but much easier as it was bit of downhill and flat track. Stones strewn around were mossy. 20 minutes later we were out of the forest and immediately accosted with sheer rock face to climb. Daring trekkers took that path (with advantage of able to fill water from thin stream flowing), while cautious ones simply used the much easier path on the left side.

It turned into much longer break of 25 minutes. But then again, like yesterday, our average pace was pretty good and plenty of time left in the day. The remaining gentler climb took us about 15 minutes and much to everybody's relief we were finally at the peak, more than 4 hours since we started.

We took few snaps and then went exploring the peak ahead - a spot to relax in the shade. After some time, we went to explore the other side, having a good view point of hills beyond. Overhead might be sunny, but what lay ahead was sea of misty clouds and hills below surfacing only now and then. Simply breadth taking view and few minutes of serenity.

Back at the peak with rocks arranged (and a small temple), we spent some more time shooting pics. And at 20 minutes past 10 AM, we started our long trek back in the heat and tiring body. This time around more daredevils took the steep sheer rock face - and put it to good use, drinking as much water as possible and filling as many bottles as possible.

In about 40 minutes we reached Sesha Parvatha again. Our group had become more fragmented than while climbing up as everybody was probably tested to their limits on this monster of a difficult trek. Naturally, everybody stopped by the one good spot with trees to provide shade - about 10 minute hike after Sesha. Rasna, Electral, Dates, Chikkis and Biscuits to recharge ourselves. And back to climbing down in the heat and not so easy trail.

The section near Kallumantappa proved tricky again. The sandy trail with small stones littered were prone to slip and so we had make do with small grass holds. At the stream below, we filled our bottles and then took another long break in shade. The remaining oranges were finished off as well.

 
At last, around 1 PM, we reached the forest office - total 8 hours of round trip, phew! While resting and packing our bags again, we got the news about the latest forest fire (apparently due to negligence) - the officer was sweating profusely, like he had taken a bath.

For lunch, we went to Battarmane, taking the short-cut this time. Same menu as previous day. 15 minutes to 3 PM, we started our final stretch back to base, our bag heavy again with two filled water bottles. At least with plenty of time left in the day, we could take it easy.

 
But we somehow took a deviation and ended up rounding an extra hill. Thankfully we realized it soon and could take corrective course. But all wasn't well when we joined the proper trail again - blazing fire across, with the forest officer and his associate trying their best to calm a beast on their own. We said yes to their request to help. No fire extinguishers or even water. Cut down branches were used to beat on the fire directly and (I guess) by denying oxygen, it gets put out. Of course that depends on how fierce the fire was in particular patch and how effectively we could work. We managed to help a little bit in the grand scheme. One section caught fire again after we had moved on and it proved much more difficult to put out the second time around. With such a enormous task, the risk and our tiredness, we had to stop soon and convey our regrets. Am proud that we did our bit for the cause. Though I wish I could forget the crackling of fire as it swept the hills.

 
Our bags felt disturbingly hot when we picked them again. And there were lots of trekkers climbing up at this time! Most of them were huffing and puffing and many were really interested in knowing how long the ordeal was left to reach Battarmane or Forest office.

About half an hour later, I finally took out my Electral pack, mixed it in 3/4th of water bottle, had few sips and shared around. It tastes so good when you are dead tired and need to replenish. Then as we neared the forest stretch, we saw burnt out grass near the very tree we had rested under the previous day and loud cackling of fire further close to forest. I definitely got real scared.

The final stretch through forest proper took us about 70 minutes. It was mindless step after step, ever closer to base. Sathesh and I kept up steady conversation to pass time. With about 20 minutes to go, I played olden goldies songs on my phone - why didn't it strike earlier? It was so good to hear after all the trekking over two days. Once outside, we rested and snacked while Channa called up TT driver to pick us here (a welcome respite to end our 12 hour marathon trek)

We stopped by that Kumaradhara spot again. Most of us had a refreshing dip. And then asked the driver to go to Dharmasthala for temple visit and dinner. I like this aspect of BTC very much - the little things that so much enhances the experience. It is not just some mountain climbing and back to Bengaluru. By end of weekend, it is not just another peak flagged, but another set of friends made, another memorable event to be fondly reminisced in future including interesting tid-bits.

On the way, we stopped for a break - some had tender coconut, some coffee while some preferred to sleep :P At Dharmasthala, we went straight to join the queue to visit temple. Some joined the food queue. Not sure of exactly how long it took, but it was around an hour when we came out - and from elaborate system in place, it can be guessed that at special occasions, it might be several hours longer. And immediately afterwards, we joined the dinner queue - another hour of standing and waiting that some joked it was mini trail. The food was piping hot and tasty, topped up with a sweet.

Once outside (it was after 10 PM by then), we passed time so as to plan leaving by 11 PM and reach Bengaluru after 4 AM . We had feedback session here as well. When we started back, murphy's law came back with a vengeance at us - punctured tyre, which took more than an hour to fix due to lack of appropriate spanner and jammed bolts. We were finally on our way back past midnight and reached around 7 AM in the morning :D

Kolli Hills - 17,18 Oct 2015

Ah, the sweet pain in thighs and calves after two days of trekking. 

After so many years of trekking exclusively around Bangalore and Western Ghats, I've got chance to trek in the Eastern Ghats, twice this year. First was one of the best experience ever - Nagala. Kolli Hills had plenty of water fun too, but sadly, no pools to jump. Thanks again Bangalore Trekking Club.

This time, we had two teams gathering at BTC's usual spot at Shanthala Silk house (the other group going to green carper Kudremukh). We took a few group pics and impromptu intro session before starting on our separate ways. Ours was a small group - 9 members (Vikram, Ameer, Venkatachalam, Prashant, Chidambaram, Sourav, Marthe, Hillary and yours truly), with Chidambaram joining us on the way at Namakkal. Since we had introduced ourselves already, Dumb Charades on our names was ruled out. Instead, it became a detailed personal info discussion. With mandatory questions like age, do you cook, are you married, etc

We reached Nallathambi resort just after 6 in the morning. We got a big hall with accommodation for 12. Very neat and spacious. Ameer took responsibility to co-ordinate with the guide (speaking in Tamil). After freshening up, we had breakfast at Semmedu (along with A2B sweet poli, brought by Chidamabaram) and packed parcel for lunch. We were then on our way to Arappaleeswarar temple.

The guide was already waiting for us there. He gave a brief of what to expect - total 12+ kilometers of trek, ending with visit to Agaya Gangai Falls. He described the trail to be steep as well as plenty of flat sections. So, after buying Rs 10 entry tickets, we got going.

Plenty of tourists and pilgrims, mainly to visit the falls. The numerous steps leading to the falls were obviously easier going down. Flanked on both sides with plants and trees and pretty large spider webs, we got a glimpse of range of Kolli Hills as we climbed lower and lower. Even the steps at some places were constructed akin to plenty of hair-pin bend roads we traversed to reach the resort.

After going pretty close to the falls, we took a deviation into the forests to start our actual trek. We knew within a few minutes the nature of our track and that the climb back was gonna be very difficult. The trail was, as is common, one person wide. I always wonder if these forest trails were all man-made or a mix of man-made and stream path(formed during heavy rains). We saw more of those monster spider webs and some interesting insects now and then.

With no recent rain, the trail was dry and not slippery. But it took a long time to get used to slope (mostly down). Plenty of red ants on our way, but I don't think anybody got bitten the whole day. After a short while, we reached first of the four caves. Cave might be too strong a word for it (usually 2 huge boulders set against each other), but we'll stick to it as is dubbed by the locals (written on boulders). The stream flowing down from the falls was close by but not accessible. We took our time resting and clicking pics and got going again.

About half an later, we reached the second cave. Couple of Sadhus were camping there. We settled for a long rest around the strewn rocks and boulders on the banks of gushing stream. Prashant and Chidambaram got into water, Vikram and Marthe jumped rocks to explore around, while rest of us just idled around. Small butterflies took to tasting our water bottles.

It was only after we were all ready to go that we realized we had to cross the stream! Suddenly the monotonous trail became interesting. People stood at various spots and passed on bags and sandals and shoes to the other side. Those who could overcome fear, leaped across, while others got a helping hand. After I jumped and skipped and climbed to the other side, my body finally got the trek Thrill. Like something awakening within, some lock opened specifically for body exerting activities. Walking on the trail became much easier, my steps more assured.

The rest of hour's trek to reach final cave was much of the same kind of trail, with stream to our right and occasional glimpse of hills around giving a refreshing change of view. The final spot (fourth cave) had the most religious artifacts and apparently some Sadhus actually live there (and the other similar spots in the area).

After just a few minutes there, we tracked back and went down near the stream for lunch. We realized very quickly that we were heavily short on water but couldn't help it. The stream water was dirty - filled with washed off dirt and sand. So, by the time everybody had a dip (it happened very slowly, only few had gone at the start and then one-by-one all went in) and had lunch (along with tasty sprouts, thanks again Chidambaram), we resorted to filling bottles with as less dirt as possible. We tried waiting for it to settle down in water bottles, but no luck. The guide took to getting kerchiefs from us to use it as filter while filling - the best we could manage. Verdict - safe enough to consume, no visible side effects :P

Our guide was itching to leave early as he had to go some other town afterwards. But he understood our idea of fun and did well to go along with us - sleeping when we took long in water, helping us with spots near cave 2, kerchief filtered water, more waiting near the falls, etc. And answering our various queries as well.

We started our trudge back, thirsty but determined. We stopped only for two short breaks, to catch our breadth, before reaching the stream to cross. This time many more jumped and skipped around. And Vikram managed to slip himself wet just before the last jump, much to everybody's amusement :P

The remaining distance to the steps near waterfall proved much more difficult to cover. The trail was much steeper and we were yearning for a drop of water. Our guide knew some spot for cleaner water than the stream and took two bottles and a kerchief to fill. Of course we shared and finished before starting again.

Around 4 PM, we reached the steps and heaved a sigh of relief. And then, again much like earlier, one by one we got into waterfalls. Just getting near it was difficult with slippery rocks. And there was no chance to get under. The forceful water spray alone drenched us. It was difficult to keep our eyes open. And it was cold, very cold.

And then came the ice cream topping. The steps to climb up. Excruciating step, one at a time, holding onto helpful railing, taking break very often, stopping to view those tranquil hills by the dying light, we did it. Once we had all come out, the authorities promptly shut the gates to steps. Probably been waiting for us!

Lime sodas, pulpy oranges, tea, snacks, water, temple visit - and then we reached the resort to freshen up before going back to Semmedu for dinner. Ameer's desire to have food at some Silverline hotel went yet again unfulfilled. Instead, we had sumptuous dinner at Vasantha Maligai. After getting back, we played Dumb Charades. Between my sneezes, Ameer's frustration to get across his meaning, Marthe's stunning enacting for 'Saving Private Ryan', we had the best laughs and general fun time.

We got ready early on Sunday, checked out, had breakfast again at same place as day before and were on our way to more waterfalls and temples. The first of which was Masila. Falling down like a typical slide in amusement parks, it was nestled in between two hills. The Sun was out baking us but the water was cold. Too much crowd though. After a bit of local herbal concoction, we next went to Ettukai Amman (8 handed goddess) temple. It had a serene walkway from the road to temple. 

And then to final waterfall of our trip. Visible from road, we had to climb down broken glass ridden muddy path. By the time we reached the falls, this too became crowded. Water gushed down in much thinner streams but forceful nonetheless.

So and, like all good things, this wonderful trek came to an end as well. We hopped on for 70+ hair-pin bend ride, stopped for a light snack at foothills, had sumptuous lunch at Namakkal, singing along chart-busters like Why this Kolaveri, Tum Hi Ho, etc an evening snack and feedback session and back to Bangalore in time to see India lose the 3rd ODI vs SA.

Mullayanagiri to Baba Budangiri - 26,27 Sep 2015

If you are a frequent trekker in Karnataka, it won't be long before you hear of the highest peak - Mullayanagiri. You hear tales of its accessibility via road. Of the Sarpadari trail. And Baba Budangiri would be thrown in the narration. The listener would often get confused that the trek includes two peaks instead of usual single peak treks like Tadiandamol, Kudremukh, Kumara Parvatha, Kodachadri, etc

BTC adda - in front of Shanthala Silk House

As usual, we gathered at Shanthala Silk House, opposite Terminal 3 near Majestic. There were 3 trekking events from BTC alone and 2 other groups nearby. After BTC group photo and confusion for some regarding the team they were joining, our very amiable group of 12 (Vikram, Srikanth, Vijaykumar, Aruna, Lokith, Santhosh, Sangeetha, Mahesh, Kirti, Sathesh, Anent and yours truly) started our journey in TT driven by equally amiable driver Manju.

Despite being 15th trek with BTC, I was in for a pleasant surprise. Introductory session started in TT itself with everyone enacting their names Dumb Charades style. For obvious clues, we let our imagination run wild instead of guessing the right answer. That done, everybody gave a short intro. At midnight, we wished one of the BTC organizers - Ajita a happy birthday. Hats off to this passionate and volunteer organization that ensures a fun filled event every time like no other professional body can.

Early morning around 5 AM, we were jolted awake due to bad road and thick fog (except a few Kumbhakarans who continued sleeping). We reached our home stay at Kemmangundi about an hour later. Manju changed punctured tyre and we roamed in vicinity taking pics and enjoying droplets falling while organizers helped by Vijay took care of our accommodations. We got a temporary room to get freshened up - some of us trekked up to hill top to use common restrooms.

the helpful Restorent sign board

One could say the Horticulture Department Guest House has developed into a sort of mini hill station with its many cottages and cars & tourist vehicles lined up outside. It is an amazing place to stay - the sheer varieties of plants, trees, flowers, insects added to the lure of tall and broad mountain ranges all around. They could do with a basic online search for signs in English though - to avoid spelling errors like Restorent.

Temple at Kallathi falls (Photo Credit: Anent)

Hebbe falls is now a restricted area. So, after breakfast, we got into TT to go to Kallathi falls - about 10-12 km away. There is a temple built between huge rocks and statues carved on boulders in the way of the falls. Plenty of worshipers. Some of us braved the cold to trek further up and take a dip under the gushing waters. The path was littered with abandoned cloth (not sure if it is part of some religious ceremony) - overall not a great experience compared to famous western ghats falls.

Rejoice, all you spider fans

After customary group pics and changing to dry clothes, we had cucumber and started walking towards Kemmangundi as TT had not yet returned from fixing the punctured tyre. Naturally, the talk centered around treks and some discussed about their upcoming detailed plans like Chadar trek (Chadar became Kirti's nickname for rest of the trek :P). While we had sung enthusiastically on the way to falls, most were drooping with sleep on the way back.

When hunger gnaws

We immediately headed for lunch on reaching the home stay. Parota, variety rice and veg curries to go with. Topped by a gulab jamun at the end. Filling and sleep inducing. Our two storey accommodation was ready by this time and we were all impressed by the spacious and clean rooms - 6 beds each, perfect for our 12 member group. We had some time to kill before our evening trek. After some small talk, Vijay took it upon himself to entertain us till our stomach hurt and ears bled. Suffice to say the protagonists of the love story had plenty of real life (and even characters named on the spot from our group) elements. In the end, we slapped Sidhu's obsession with Shanthi on Vijay and earned him Shanthi as nickname. On our part, we poked holes in his narration and otherwise encouraged wild theories.

just a glimpse of our heavenly stay

Around 4 pm, we got ready to trek to Z point, carrying water bottles, snacks and torches. The view point was series of hills near our stay, so TT wasn't required. On the way, there are jeeps you can hire to reach Shanthi falls - about 2-3 km of mud road after which trail starts to the hills. The mud road was slippery at many places due to overnight rain and occasional stagnant small pools. Leeches too, but not plentiful like forest trails in western ghats. Average 1-2 bites by the time we got back to home stay.

soon, we will amidst those very misty clouds

We got clear view of lush green grass covered peaks with misty clouds hanging about as we hiked around the hills. There were other trekking groups with us as well as jeeps passing (requiring us to shift to very edge of road). Shanthi falls was short in height as well but much better than Kallathi falls. It was visible even from a distance when we started the trek. There isn't much space around and we decided to keep trekking. Many trails to choose, we took tougher trail - leading away from Z point but climbing higher. It also avoided the crowd already assembled at Z point and more were headed that way.

Shanthi Falls

The steep and slippery climb lasted only the first short climb - won't be a problem at all if dry. Looking back, we could spot mobile tower at top of our home stay and its surrounding hills. Sun set would be in that direction as well. The misty cloud curtain (like a milky river) over those hills was already mesmerizing and would get better as we climbed higher and higher.

who'd wish to trudge back?

We did take some time to acclimatize - this was our first real climb and short steep beginning was far from ideal gentle slope. Thankfully, we had a clear weather after foggy day. We couldn't stop taking snaps with such an enticing view all around. Our frequent rests would get extended as we simply couldn't decide when to stop taking pics. Anenth, the photographer, kept us busy with his action call, while Aruna, the other photographer involved us with awesome positions and angles to click photo with. The organizers had to remind us about reaching the mud road before darkness to get us moving.

close competition with 'green carpet Kudremukh'

With so many arching peaks, we didn't have a destination as such. We would climb a hill, rest, jump around and then repeat. At the final hill top we decided to stop at, the Sun painted the sky a brilliant orange. Such a contrast from foggy morning. And then we got moving back - much faster going down (though a little more trickier). Just before the final steep hill - we got to see brilliant sunset, with equally shining almost full moon on the opposite side (and the intersecting hill curves allowed the perfect shot too).

the rising Moon

and the setting Sun

We had free reign to click pictures with waterfall this time. We filled our empty water bottles before starting again. There still enough daylight to see without using torch. There was commotion and gathered group just after the falls - we learned that a person had slipped and they were trying to lift him up using a rope, tied to a tree for purchase. Dampened our happy spirits. The rescue was going on even after we had reached back the home stay and then heard during dinner that the person was taken to hospital in Chikkamagaluru.

Torch light shining, we moved as brisk as possible, staying as a group (though mostly it got split into two) - the person ahead warning and guiding to avoid slippery mud. It felt much longer in dark to reach the intersection. We tried our best to look for leeches and remove them. And then took a decision to continue trekking to hill top of our home stay to wash and remove leeches before going to our rooms. By now, we were tired and feeling pain - we certainly expected about 6 km hike than the ~10 km trek that it became.

The group got split into two again. We were taking the hair-pin bend road to Raj Bhavan (the garden atop the hill, with its cottages and view points). We, the slower group, stopped to take a breather by sitting on few benches near the edge of cliff. Moon light shone brilliantly, gentle breeze blowing. And commotion audible and torch light visible from the rescue operation still going on near the falls :-/

We took our own leisurely time to freshen up before going for dinner. Hot water (geyser! on a trek! what luxury :D) was so inviting for many to take bath. We wanted to preserve as much snack as possible for breakfast the next day and trek, but hunger pangs while waiting for everyone to get ready finally got the better of us and we tore at some biscuit packs. Dinner menu turned out to be same choice as lunch, but still we got wiser in ordering to our tastes and choices. We planned to leave early morning the next day, so we wound up the day around 10:30 pm with alarms set to get ready by 6:30 am.

I woke up suddenly from a bad dream. Fear rose as I couldn't place where I was. Who were these people around me. That snoring! OMG, WHERE AM I? Sanity returns. I remember that I am on a trek :D I go back to sleep almost immediately.

5:35 am, alarm rings and I hurry to turn off as I was instructed to not wake anyone before 6 am :P There was no power. I tried the tap at wash basin - no water. Tried tap in bathroom - no water. But flush was working in the toilet. It was raining outside, not very heavy but steady enough that I thought there was a chance of no trek that day. Part of me wished it would be canceled! I was aching and signs of oncoming cold (I blamed the previous day's fog and cold water bath at Kallathi falls). Went back to sleep. After sometime, alarms rang. I told no power, no water and raining outside. Everybody went back to sleep! :D I stayed in bed for some more time. Then I thought to check what was going on in the ground floor. Most of them were ready! Water was coming! What is going on? I come back, no water at wash basin. Went to bathroom, tried the tap - this time turned the knob in center - viola! water. How stupid of me :( Only consolation was the delay I caused didn't matter in the end :D

I had bouts of excessive and continuous sneezing, and even two others in our room sneezed. They said that it was probably just early morning cold in play. And incredibly, it was the case. After everybody had freshened up, separated out what to carry and what to leave behind in TT, parting group pic, we reached TT only to find he was under it changing tyre again! Anyway, it gave us opportunity to trek up to Raj Bhavan and click pictures of beautifully maintained flower garden and flora in general. The view from top was mesmerizing too - rain had stopped by then and clear blue sky above us.

the beautifully maintained gardens

Vijay co-ordinated again with local guides for Mullayanagiri - Babu Budangiri trek. We had planned to have breakfast on the way - but couldn't resist gobbling plenty of snacks until then. So much so that when we stopped at a village (with a shop to repair the punctured tyre) we were reluctant to have breakfast. We also had a clear view of Top falls - much more enticing than the ones we visited on Saturday but not accessible :-/

After breakfast, we started Dumb Charades. We logically split into two groups of 6 each (front two rows and back two rows). It so happened that the teams were heavily mismatched :D While our team needed just a glimpse of part of a word to guess the remaining, the front team took lot of time and resorted even to guessing alphabet by alphabet :D :D :D By the time everyone had a go, we had reached the check point where the guides got in. We filled water bottles from a tank nearby and in short while, we reached Sarpadari - starting point of our trek. Some misfortune on Sunday - Sangeetha had to stay back in morning session owing to food foul play while Srikanth would stay back in afternoon session owing to knee strain.

Start of Sarpadari trail

Our guides - Sudharma and Udhay were pretty cool and good. After instructions (pretty much BTC rules) we were on our way for the main event of trek. The trail, appropriately named Sarpadari, had a gate with inscriptions right beside the ghat road. Overnight rain made the path slippery, but thankfully sunny morning had mitigated much.

snaking our way up

The initial snaking trail proved the most toughest of the entire trek. One has to walk on a narrow path much like hair-pin bends, any slip likely fatal as there is nothing to hold on the grassy mountain. That said, it took less than half an hour to climb this slippery path, after which it was much easier and the path strewn with stones to provide better grip. And of course, the muscles acclimatized to conditions.

we would be reaching those hills with towers in the background later...

Mullayanagiri peak - notice the garbage collection

Dark clouds were forming overhead. As we climbed higher, we came closer to ragged cliffs, longer grass, boulders and few trees around. There were some short stretches of steep climbs too, nothing overly difficult. We didn't know it then, but worst was behind. Looking down and around, we could see hills and thick forests, with occasional small lakes and the snaking roads as well. Much like Saturday evening trek, we were climbing hill after grassy hill, taking breaks, and 10 minutes past noon, we reached the Mullayanagiri peak. Just about 75 minutes from Sarpadari to temple at the peak. There is road access from other side and large crowd were going about. Vijay and one of the guide did a spontaneous garbage clean up! much to the surprise of crowd.

While those were gone to dispose of the garbage, the rest of us got busy clicking pics in so many poses that the other guide got a bit irritated and expressed that we may not have time to finish the entire stretch of trek :P So anyway, after about half an hour spending at the peak clicking pics and visiting temple, we started our trek again. The path went around the temple and now we had much wider view of our way ahead (what with being on highest peak and all). The pattern again was hiking across multiple mountain peaks, but much longer and wider than shorter ones we crossed earlier.

continuing our trek, behind the temple

Cloud cover had grown - visual treat ahead with some peak shining in Sun and others in shade. We were literally walking amidst clouds and a short while later, it started drizzling. By the time everybody covered their bags and put on ponchos/raincoats, it was raining steadily - not heavy though. The trail was mostly gentle incline (either direction) and not slippery. We were walking faster too, urged by the guides that we need to finish lunch around 2 pm to finish the trek. The rain stopped after a while but before we thought of removing our covers, it returned, heavier this time - but still not drenching or threatening.

When the rain cleared again, we emerged into blue skies with few white clouds ahead. It was darker behind though. We stopped to remove our covers and have a healthy dose of snack and water. Everybody had taken organizers words very seriously - so much we had brought that plenty was remaining even after end of day. Not that we complained :P

aren't you tempted to trek on this trail?

The snaking roads were visible again - we could clearly see three long stretches, stacked one below the other. The noise they made and the occasional horns were irritating though. Our trail became a little more rough, larger stretches of ups and downs, some ragged cliffs and edges. And then smoothened out near the lunch point - the road cuts the trail between hills. It was pretty hot when we finally reached - 15 minutes past 2 pm. We filled our water bottles at check point and then a short distance further, TT and lunch packs were waiting.

tucking in as much as possible for long haul after noon

Near the edge of road, we sat on rocks with Sun baking down. Plenty of rice, parota, curry, pickle, snacks for lunch. We ate as much as possible to sustain us for a longer trek ahead. And that it was tasty helped. We could see three big peak ahead of us and asked the guides which was our destination. He said we would be crossing all :D I was particularly scared by the closest one - it was very jagged and looked ominous (which turned out to be false alarm)

Few minutes past 3 pm, having filled our bottles again, we started again. Sangeetha was fit and raring to go (having heard us express the beautiful views in the morning session) - while Srikanth had to stay back to avoid risking strained knee on a long hike. The jagged mountain did have edges and we often walked in a straight line skirting the cliffs (on either side), but not as scary as the slippery Sarpadari trail. It was humid and our heavy stomach meant it was slow going.

the jagged trail

looking back

To our right was thick forest covering mountain side all the way down. And there were some habitation in midst of it all. Clouds played hide and seek with Sun, but it didn't look we will get another rain spell on our path. We took break more frequent than in morning session, but I would say we were steady and not missing any opportunity to enjoy the view (taking snaps with them goes without saying). No sign of leeches anywhere, they rarely are in grasslands far from trees.

long way to go...

We had to just keep walking - hill after hill, up and down, take break, have snack/water, again and again. We would often look back, to see dark clouds covering the ranges around Mullayanagiri. Guides, on their part, kept misguiding us about end point. Sometimes, it would be just about half an hour of brisk hike left. Sometimes it was crossing just 2-3 more hills. Oh, it was way off the mark :D After 4:30 pm, misty clouds drew our attention. They moved fast, like huge white jet trail and shortly completely obscuring large swathes of mountains. I couldn't help remembering my Kodachadri trek from 4 years ago.

when things go hazy...

And then we ourselves were completely surrounded by fog. Visibility reduced to few meters. And of course, we had to stop a long time, break as well as various poses to be clicked. No wonder, it is one of the best trekking trails, especially for beginners. And on we continued hiking.

Suddenly, out of nowhere it seemed, two black dogs appeared in our path and they seemed very intent in getting food from us. The guides informed that they come often and apparently all the way from Mullayanagiri. They stayed with us almost till end of the trek, way past sunset.

...to when it clears

Around 5:30 pm, the fog cleared from our path - after a short spell of drizzle. Looking back, we had yet another view of misty cloud river, Sun about to set, much like on Saturday. More spectacular, if it could be imagined. We settled down for yet another long break and photography. The mountain's shadow was visible on the valley below us. And partial rainbow forming on clouds to our right. By the time we were winding up, lightning crackled in those very clouds.

After a short climb, we were atop a peak overlooking a wide open area, with good mud road and plenty of TT and buses parked. A shooting was going on close to lake on far side. We thought it was end of trek and some even went to watch the shooting. The lead guide informed that we had plenty more walking to do! And to hurry up with possible rain on the horizon.

Only about half of us had got torch with us. We were tired but not short of enthusiasm to trek further. Our direction changed, almost doubling back in the direction we came - but different stretch of hills. The spectacular cloud show was still on and at the fag end of sunset, a brilliant orange lit up overhead with thick clouds and lightning in the eastern direction.

sky ode? (Photo Credit: Aruna)

The ground was wet and became slushy further down. We had to be careful with our footing. As it became darker and torch light absolutely necessary to see the path, we walked as fast as possible, ignoring our tired legs. We could see some lights in distance and not long after we finally reached the road and declared the trek done with. We still had to walk a short distance to TT, shops lined to our right near the temple. We had refreshing tea/coffee at one hotel and were on our way back towards Mullayanagiri (to drop the two guides back at the check post too).

It was raining outside, while we tried hard to ignore the stuffy smell of our clothes and wet shoes/socks. We tried to finish the remaining snack, but they just were plenty left. On top of it, we had bought dil pasand before starting back (they tasted awesome :P). Vikram took it upon himself to keep us from falling asleep - he poked and prodded people to narrate some interesting personal anecdotes. After dinner (where we also had the feedback session), Kirti wanted to keep the narration going and ended up having to tell different things all by herself (some were downright scary and we had to interject with funny interludes). By 2 am, we were back in Bangalore - yet another wonderful and memorable trek with BTC came to an end. Can't wait for the next one :)