Different Hues of My Mind

March 12, 2017 - view from seventh hill, Velliangiri Hills One of the toughest pilgrimages in South India, coincidentally also known as the Southern Kailash  ( Then Kailayam ) - is a pristine mountain range in Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is revered as one of the abodes of Lord Shiva, and accessible by foot passing through Seven Hills. The hills are also home to many siddhar  (type of saints) and sunai (natural springs). The trek that takes 5-6 hours one way for a fit person, is usually taken up by pilgrims barefoot (the hills are considered sacred), with a bamboo pole for support. Its worth mentioning that the entry is controlled by the forest department, and they allow access only from February to May. Due to the daytime heat, the trek is usually taken up overnight and ends sometime early next day. Full moon nights are preferred as moonlight helps treading the tricky path at many places. We followed suit and started our trek at around midnight. There was a huge rush of

October 14, 2016 - Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka On a road trip to Wayanad and back spanning 3 days and 750+ kilometers - passing through BRT Tiger Reserve (Biligiriranga Hills), Bandipur National Park, and Nagarhole National Park - among other state forests, we had rendezvous with many wild animals. It was a pleasure to drive on the roads with sparse traffic, while enjoying the remaining time lazing around. Being the more pleasant time of the year in terms of weather added up to a fantastic break.