Kemmangundi happened because of Rajith’s new car - the Wagon R. What better way to burn in the engine than go on a long drive. The long drive didn’t get off to a great start however. We didn’t start early on the Saturday morning and ended up being caught in bumper to bumper traffic before Nelamangala at around half past 8. But after turning off the highway towards Hassan, things were smooth. So many times Rajith was eager to step on the gas, but his brother kept a close watch. The engine was after all new and the brothers didn’t want a seizure on the highway.

We reached Hassan for lunch, after which we headed off to Chickmangalur. The surroundings turned really beautiful as we left Hassan, with green fields and sunflower plantations keeping us cheerful company. Nothing can be more refreshing than driving on a smooth highway with lush green fields on either side. Chickmangalur is one hour from Hassan, and our first stop was Mullayangiri. We drove as high as we could, up the highest peak in Karnataka and covered the rest on foot. Thick fog had engulfed the mountains and as we got off the car we were almost blown away by the heavy winds. The air was damp and I was just recovering from a viral infection, so I snuggled into my raincoat. Rajith and Rohit went all the way to the top of the peak where there is a Shiva temple while I waited near the steps praying the wind doesn’t blow me off the peak. The last thing I wanted was to fall off a cliff!

From Mullayangiri we went to Kemmangundi and it was late when we got there. By the number of cars parked we came to know that the little hill station was packed. But luckily we found decent accommodation in one of the cottages for Rs. 530 + Rs. 100 for an extra bed. A sleeping bag could have helped because I was the one who slept on the floor and almost froze halfway into the night.

The next morning, our first destination was Z-Point. Mountain air can do wonderful things to your mood. And Z-point was a perfect destination for such a wonderful morning. We drove up till where we could, parked our cars and walked up. The mist was clearing and we could see green, green mountains everywhere. The air was still damp and there was a beautiful waterfall on the way. Since we had our own car we had got there ahead of the tourist crowd and made the best use of the time shooting. Actually, I shot so much in the rain that my camera gave up and died. Yes, in spite of the drizzle, I continued using my camera and it died. It just wouldn’t turn on. But I was sure it would come back to life and wasn’t worried. The only sad part was that I missed out on some amazing scenery as we drove back from Z-point.

Our return route was not via Hassan and we got to see some more of beautiful sunflower fields enroute. The drive back was uneventful and easy and we reached Bangalore by evening. The trip, although short, was very refreshing. It also taught me how far I can push my gear, which have faithfully captured the photos shown below.