Dune Bashing

Late, but nevertheless back_ and this time with more than just tips on bashing dunes! Well, as you can see in the pictures, this out of the world place is Nelliyampathy, a truly wonderful spot near Palakakd, Kerala. The trick is to find the right transport, Jeep Mahindra or the Scorpio being a sound choice. (Add a stout stick, couple of daredevil mates, food and water_ unless your idea of walking the God's earth is for the search of water), torch, stout ropes, and such like!

The drive is long and hard, through thick forests and winding ghat roads, but the spot itself is delightful. The rocky outcroppings are a temptation to sit, and you can very well do so, so long as you can balance yourself against the gusty winds that can otherwise send you flying.

(The specks you see in the pics is myself and my friend Biju. As you can see, the drop is deep and dangerous)



We did just that_ the four of us. All, adventure seekers, looking for a bit of fun while in India. The sands of Arabia are great, but the charm of wandering through cloud-kissed forests cannot be ignored, right?

We did a bit of camping out as well, more in the hope of seeing the big cat we heard was a common sight in the region. We did hear a bit of a growl, but the cat eluded us completely.

But if you persist, you may get lucky.

There are plenty of trekking options here and the best being a walk to the top of the various peak dotting the hill range.

How to get there: About 75-km thrill-drive away from dusty Palakkad is this beautiful hill range, cool and welcoming the adventurous. Take you pick of the many peaks you can get to or drive up. But if you want to stay on, it is wise to first consult the forest department.