Bulls On Parade to Neemrana(Again)

The Abhaneri Ajgars
NO
The Neemrana Naags

Never before had it happened in BoP's history that we changed our destination during a ride. We have reached the destination 24 hours late, but always made it. But the conditions that day, were helpless.Nishant Jha was on his quarterly visit to India. And that meant a ride. But this time, he had time for only one day. So, the place had to be somewhere close for a one-dayer but not too close. Abhaneri was selected. Much had been heard about the Baoli there.Nishant's presence also meant big participation. Some riders who could not make it to the ride, we had something else planned. A pre-ride bash the previous night. Customs should be followed.

27 February 2011

The riders that turned up were:
Nishant Jha - Royal Enfield Electra - "main seeti baja ke nikal doonga"

Vikas Garg - Royal Enfield Standard - "mujhe paraathe banaane sikhayega?"

Rohan Kaushik and Aman Maangat - Royal Enfield Classic 500 - "prescription likh dega?", "Uba rah gaya", "Atariya hai peechhe"

Dhruv Malik - Bajaj Pulsar 220 -

BK Atreya - Hero Honda Karizma -

Deepak Chauhan - Bajaj Pulsar 220 - "main nahi khaata"

Shubham Sachdev - Bajaj Pulsar 220

Diptinder Singh Chhabra and Vihans Gupta - Royal Enfield Electra - "Haaayeeeeeee"

I was woken up by Vikas' call. This is getting disturbing now. I'm getting late much too often. Maybe, I do need to cut down on drinks. I reached at the spot at 5:40. Zaheer bhai was to join us but he suffered a fall and had to skip. We set off for a clean start. But as soon as we crossed the toll plaza at Manesar, things began to turn ugly. Negotiating traffic at that hour of morning is very frustrating. To add to it, we were surrounded by dense fog. We braved it for a while thinking it would be clearer ahead. But it was not to be.We stopped at a dhaba for tea and Parle G. Frost covered our eyebrows.

It was impossibly difficult, and highly dangerous too. We must have spent an hour at the dhaba before setting off again. The fog refused to lift. The sun still could not penetrate the thick fog. With the six-laning construction activity going on, it was a recipe for disaster. It was necessary to stay together. But Rohan, led us off on the way to Bhiwadi. Phones were not being answered. So, we followed the original plan and returned to the highway.After covering only a few kms we stopped again at the roadside with the rest of the group. We thought of stopping at a dhaba nearby and wait for the fog to lift. At Bawal, it got clear. Time to rip the motorcycles. Since, it was almost 9 AM now, we stopped at a dhaba to decide on the future course of action. It would not be right to call it a dhaba. Tony Cold Drinks was the name. But then, we trust Nishant's judgement. This time we were punished for it. First things first, Nishant went for the fields. This activity has been a source of good luck charm in the past rides. So, we were hopeful of a clear weather from here on. If only he would have done this at the Gurgaon Toll.Deepak joined him. Nishant assisted him with his whistle. Don't bother with the details. The parathas arrived. From here on, only Vikas' sound could be heard. He kicked Tony's ass time and again over the quality of food. Moreover, the Frooti bottle had an expired date. But Tony was one league ahead. He took everything in the side and responded. At the end, he also forcefully took Rs 10 as a tip.Our destination was still 200 kms away. We would have made it but then it would only have been "touch-and-go". The return would have been very late. But, since our destination had a Baoli, we decided on Neemrana as the new destination. It has a Baoli too. It was the destination for the first BoP Ride back in December 2007. There are lots of attachments with that place. We started off again. And then stopped soon after, again. This had to be the most relaxed ride. We had not covered more than 25 kms at any stretch. But, this stop was essential. We had to stock up on fluids for the Baoli. We picked up Tuborg and Kala Teetar, the national beer of Haryana, here in Rajasthan. India is a fascinating place.We started off again. And then stopped soon after, again. This time at the turn towards Neemrana. Vikas had not noticed the others at the theka and just rode on. We waited a long time for him to turn up now. Calls were not being answered. What really happened, is still a mystery to this day. We started off again. Now, we were riding inside the Neemrana village. On turning at the road towards the Baoli, the way ahead had too much slush. We took a diversion from the neighbouring street to get to the other side. Now, the path cleared and we arrived at the Baoli. But no stopping. As had happened in the first ride, courtesy Kam, we rode on to the head of the Baoli and rode our motorcycles up the path near the well. This is a fantastic spot and it still looked as beautiful as I had seen it more than 3 years ago.

Without wasting anytime, we started our agenda, the BBB session. Out came Maker's Mark, Kentucky Bourbon brought in from Kuwait specially for this ride. Nishant did the honours of opening the wax seal. For the next two hours, all hell break loose. Any stranger nearby at that time would not have been able to handle the enormous quantity of knowledge that flew at that time. The effect was doubled by our echoes from the well. I really wish to have a recording of such a session. It would be remarkable to review it.Vikas appeared one hour later and then passed clean by the Baoli without noticing us or the Baoli. He reached the next village before turning back.When empty clinks of beer bottles began to sound, it was time to explore the Baoli. We went all the way down. Much thanks to ASI for ignoring this property as they would have then locked off all the sections. It is one of the rare historic structures still holding on its own.Going down was easy. The climb up left us panting for breath. Some of us got even more playful on reaching back to the vantage point. The ground in front presented a dirt track kind of picture. Deepak, Shubham, Dhruv and Rohan went ahead.

All of them had to be pushed over the initial slope. There was too much dirt. The rest of us just lounged besides the well.

Nishant went one step ahead. He snoozed and snored for the next half hour. Now, we got hungry. Dhruv suggested Hotel Tokas Midway just nearby on the highway.

After the dismal breakfast, lunch was super. Although vegetarian, it was delicious. We were so stuffed that we just lay out on the lawns for a good length after that.

It was getting late. We knew we had to cross the dreaded Dharuhera traffic in the sunlight before it reaches its chaotic state. Most of us rode non-stop till the Gurgaon toll plaza. Rohan stopped for his customary dump session. See, we are environment friendly too, enriching the soil for plantation.The Delhi-based riders said goodbye from the toll. Four of us reached the Leisure Valley so that Vihans could collect his bike and then bade farewell to each other.This was a very short ride, but a very delightful one. The BBB during this ride was one of the best. Abhaneri is still a target for this year.

JAI BoP !!!!

Bulls On Parade to Dakpatthar

The Dakpatthar Dragoons

2011 had not started in a positive mode. We had to plan a last moment ride in January so that we wont be left hungry. To kickback, we planned two rides in February. But something is taking a toll on the riders. None was interested. In the end, only two people came forward to be called as Dragoons. Still, I believed we would make the most of it.

Harminder Singh Bhinder - Royal Enfield Electra 5S
Diptinder Singh Chhabra - Royal Enfield Electra

19 February 2011

The destination looked promising, and also easy. Just 270 kms from Delhi and water sports facilities. Sadly, we could not get bookings at the GMVNL guest house. So, we had to leave very early and then search for accommodation. The time was scheduled for 5 AM. Another one of those occassions when I reached late. At 5:30 AM. By this time, Bhinder had grown very frantic and was calling me endlessly. He wasnt even waiting for a minute between calls. On meeting him up, we set off.
Muradnagar was easy to cross at that time of the day and then we took the longer, canal route. Dawn began to break. We had covered only 15 kms of this road earlier. But the total length stretches to about 40 kms. Moreover, now the road was broken and potholed. Lots of shocker clunks. Things began to brighten up as daylight increased. The road condition improved too. We encountered one person while asking for directions. He asked whether we were on duty at Muzaffarnagar for the CM's visit. Our riding gear has that effect. But I would like to meet Behenji in person and ask what sense is there in spending crores on parks and statues.

We reached the Cheetal Grand. I remember this place being recommended by the "Highway On My Plate" fanatics too and we stopped for breakfast. This place is known for fluffy omelettes. But the rates were sky high. And when the omelettes arrived, they lacked taste. We had to order parathas as back up. The bill was huge. Not an ideal start to the day. But on this highway, there are very few eating options. The only consolation was the sight of 1921 Triumph on display. They say its still in working condition.
Now, we took the newly constructed 4-lane expressway to Muzaffarnagar. This road is a breeze. At Muzaffarnagar, we asked around for directions to Saharanpur at a theka. No, not a beer break yet. The climate was still cool. This guy came running forward. He told us the road was "direct". He emphasized the word 4 times. Sloshed so early during the day.We exited the highway following a direction indicating Saharanpur.

Now we were on state highways. The road was decent. Then suddenly, we noticed a turn towards Deoband and Saharanpur, and took it. The road started out nice, but soon turned bad. And from there on, it grew worse. Speed was restricted to 20 kmph. The shockers clunked numerous times. Along the way, every person we asked pointed us in a different direction towards Saharanpur. And the signboards directed someplace else only. How do you make out which direction to take when the signboard shows a staircase? The whole 30 km radius around Saharanpur is a mess. We had been travelling for an hour and then reached a signboard that showed 32 kms remaining. Only 3 kms covered so far. Its all in circles.Finally, we settled on a road and marched straight ahead and reached Saharanpur. But our troubles were still not over.

After asking directions towards Herbertpur, we were again guided in different directions. It was enough. We stopped at a theka. Beer was definitely required. Meakin's 10000. Then asked the thekawalla for directions. That guy was jovial. He told us to have beer in peace first. We obliged. The CM's visit had too much patrolling as a result. So, we were to have the beer inside the theka at the back.

This co-owner was meanwhile washing his clothes and then hung it out to dry. Man, it was a taekwondo dress. We were amazed at the sight. Must be personal security for the theka. When we had finished the beer, we asked the owner for directions. This guy got up, started his bike and then asked us to follow him. He guided us all the way to the road that led to Herbertpur. U.P. is full of hidden gems. Rare, but priceless.

Dusty-potholed roads continued till we entered the National Park area around Paonta Sahib. Although, this road has also taken a toll, but it was much, much better than what we had experienced earlier. Also, this area is where motorcyclists feel what they love most. Curves. Great, long esses. 9 kms from Vikas Nagar, I waited for Bhinder. He took some time coming and the reason was his torn jeans. He had slipped over gravel and went down. But what was great to watch was his happiness. No injuries, just a couple of bruises. He exclaimed, "Aaj main Rider ban gaya". His enthusiasm was catchy.
We were now very near our destination. Nostalgia struck. This was the road we had taken during Chakrata Chucklers Ride in March 2009. The difference was we had reached this place a good 7 hours earlier, in bright sunshine. Low Rider strength does have its advantages. At Vikas Nagar, we took the turn towards Dakpatthar. As we reached the Yamuna Barrage, the colour of water looked fantastic.

What was missing was activity. The area looked quite dull. 3 local youths sitting besides the barrage waved and came towards us. They were sloshed. We asked them what all activity was there to do around here, besides drinking. They pointed to a tunnel in the mountains. Next, we rode to a park nearby where some couples were hanging out. We asked some more locals on the activities. Another sloshed guy came forward and talked with us enthusiastically. It seemed it was abnormal here to stay normal. Then we went for the GMVNL guest house to try for the room one more time. But seeing a marriage tent outside in the lawns, we were sure not going to get it. We asked for lunch and it was unavailable. But the manager suggested the Assan Barrage guest house. Before leaving, we checked out the swimming pool. It was closed. But Man, it was huge. It looked like a proper Olympic-sized. Was quite deep too. If only, we were 6 member strong and the pool was open, we would have had the time of our lives in that resort.

We made our way towards Assan Barrage thinking about an enjoyable time ahead. It was 12-13 kms from Dakpatthar. The road ran besides the canal. When the road turned too bumpy, we crossed a narrow bridge to the other side. This was the most fun part we had since we arrived here.
The quantity of water at the barrage was massive.

Some college kids were hanging around, some were paddle-boating. Then we asked about kayaks at the reception. Another disappointment. The skiing and kayaking wont start till another month. When asked about the stay option, they were willing to provide only the AC room with a rent of Rs 780. We looked at the accommodation from a distance and in no way did it appear worth that much. It looked shabby. He wasnt willing to provide the non-AC room since they were booked via the internet only. We decided to have only a meal here and carry on. Only chowmein was available. We were hungry enough to order that too. The chowmein arrived in an oily state. I was totally pissed. This trip was turning out to be very sore. Harminder and I began to discuss the next course of action. The nearest lodging place was 35 kms in either direction. Either Paonta Sahib, Dehradun, Chakrata. Harminder was keen on Mussoorie too. Being a new entrant to BoP, he can be pardoned once for suggesting that location. We have abolished Shimla, Mussoorie and Nainital from our itinieraries, forever.

Chakrata would have been interesting, but I didnt pursue that option for personal reasons. One of our past members had been there nine times. If we had repeated Chakrata, I would have surely gotten much critic from the rest of the members to follow in the veteran's footsteps. And then the comments would have ranged to such an extent that I would have been left much battered and burnt. I gave up on that too. We decided on Dehradun. We were exhausted from our offroading stint, at least I was. I was also sleep-deprived. We would be taking a call on the next destination over a bottle of rum. We are known to make intelligent decisions under alcohol.

The road to Dehradun was smooth. We reached with enough daylight to spare. Then began a long search for a place to stay. Different people, different suggestions. After scouting half a dozen where we could not understand why they were charging such exhorbitant rates, we settled on one Hotel Suraj Palace. This was no budget hotel either, but it served the purpose. We asked the steward to get rum and coke. Meanwhile we ordered snacks. A bath was required but hot water was available in the morning only. No regrets. The steward arrived with Rum 99. Old Monk was unavailable. But the label was attractive. We settled down quickly. Since, we were only two in number, and I'm not much of a talker, much of the attention was turned to the television. Khosla ka Ghosla. Harminder kept himself busy by the mirror. Self-admiration vanity shots. He also spent time roaming around in the gallery outside trying to catch glimpses of couples in other rooms. Peeping Tom. I was too comfortable in the room with a glass in hand. Harminder was trying his best to bring life into the discussion, but my tiredness had caught up. Earlier, we had been discussing the possibility of returning to Delhi the following day. Minute by minute, I was getting more and more inclined to the idea. At first, even Harminder agreed since he had also been getting calls from office. Then he realized that his next leave would be few months away and started making alternate plans. Haridwar and Rishikesh were brought as alternates. Unfortunate for him, I wasn't sharing his enthusiasm. I knew I was playing the spoilsport, but at that instant, time was dragging. It would have only been worse the next day. Dinner was ordered as room service.

20 February 2011

As we had breakfast, Harminder went to get his oil level topped up. It was 10:30 when he announced that he was going to Haridwar. We wished each other well and went our separate ways. The milestone said "Delhi - 232 kms". Since, I was now solo, I planned to cover the maximum stretch before the first break. That stretch continued till I reached home. Non-stop. Modinagar has been a source of terror. Once I reached that spot, there was no sense in stopping. So I just carried on. I had only put my foot down 3 times in Modinagar. Muradnagar was crossed without stopping. Riders who know the chaotic mess at these locations can only understand the what a luxury it is.

And then the inevitable happened over Nizamuddin bridge. Rain. But I was in no mood to stop. I reached home, 290 kms in 6 hours. My personal longest stretch.
I plan to ensure that we are at least 3-rider strong for any overnight ride. But looking at the lack of enthusiasm from the fellow riders, it seems we would be seeing a lot of cancelled rides this year. Not at all what we planned.

Harminder, I know I had not been a good company. I hope you had much better time without me at Rishikesh, than otherwise. Looking at the photos, you did.

JAI BoP !!!!