A Ride to Nandi

 Nandi Hills, one of the popular scenic locations outside Bangalore was transformed into a peaceful oasis for a brief period thanks to the initiative of Chikkaballapur MLA Dr. Sudhakar and the cooperation of the local police. For a few early morning hours, about 10 Kms. of road near Nandi hills was closed to all traffic except human powered vehicles and runners.

The change was noticeable - the thud-thud of the motor bikes and noisy buses was absent. The whirr of bicycle wheels was a pleasant change and the air was fresh and clear.

With a tail wind and cool weather, the first 50 kilometers of the ride from Mekhri Circle was a breeze. The number of cyclists on the highway was definitely higher than the average number on a normal weekend. At the base, policemen welcomed cyclists / runners onto the road to Nandi hills and blocked all other traffic.

This was my third ride to Nandi Hills and the changes were apparent - new hotels and a few residential developments. However, for the most part Nandi Hills retains its charm. Here is the beginning of the climb.

The rock is an amazing formation that pops out of an otherwise plain - the sides of the rock are visibly steep.

At the top of the climb, you have the usual commercial establishments and a small covered entrance.

The climb is approximately 0.5 kms at an average gradient of 7%. This is a deceptive number since the gradient increases from about 4% at the start to 12% near the end of the climb.

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