After a surreal experience at Rameswaram, that ride to Arichal Manai and Dhanushkodi, something that I have wished for so long and the shade of blue ( of the sea ) I haven't seen before; it was time to start the ride to the last place of visit.
I am someone who is constantly wondering whether I prefer the beach and the sea or the mountains and the clouds.
Thankfully in this part of the country, we have both in close proximity from my city ( Bangalore )
There was no way I would have riden all the way to Bangalore in one day, needed a stop in the middle and Kolli Hills was a perfect choice.
With the famed 70 Hair Pin Bends to get up there and better weather above 3500 ft, it offered both - thrill of the ride and the break from the heat.
I wondered before I started whether the rest of my ride would be as exciting and thrilling since I had just completed the reason ( Dhanushkodi ) of the journey from Bangalore itself, but the thrill continues.
The ride from Rameswaram to Kolli Hills took me through quintessential Tamil Nadu countryside roads.
Guess what - not knowing which route to take, I let Google Maps decide for me - I selected the motorcycle tab on the maps and boy did I do the right thing.
It took me through some meandering country roads through villages and plantations. Who says technology is all distracting.
The route it took me through - Rameswaram - Nainarkovil - Melur - Mannaparai - Kolli Hills with a Total Distance of 369kms. It took me 8 hours to complete.
This route has no decent places to stop for any refreshment apart from the odd highway stops for water, tea / coffee and ice creams ( in some places ). I wasn't worried as I had a great breakfast before leaving and had enough water and munchies in case I needed them.
Once the hills were in sight, it brought a big smile to my face. The Hair Pin Bends soon started and I reached my place to stay for the night in about 30 mins.
The roads all throughout are brilliant. The Tamil Nadu State Highways are exceptional.
The place I am staying at ( Silver Line Retreat ) is pretty decent, with great views and I can hear many birds too ( including Peacocks )
With just one more day of riding ( back home ) to go, this trip has been some heck of an experience.
I am reminded of two quotes that I read -
"Four Wheels move the Body, Two Wheels move the Soul"
"Sometimes, you find yourself in the middle nowhere; and sometimes, in the middle of nowhere you find yourself"
I can also now say that my Butt hurts :)
Here are some pictures from today
Day 4 - was pretty much about going back home. A journey of about 260 kms covered in 6.5 hrs. I chose to take the NH44 this time ( just to get the feel of the big highways after all these days on the SH). At the end of the road, I reached home and carry these moments for the rest of my life in my memories.
Highways are my best friends!! Until I hit the road again! Cheers!
