Green & Scenic Climb : Mangalore to Coorg

8 am on a Sunday morning is indeed too early for sleepy town of Mangalore. Most shops and restaurants shut. As we pass thru the city, we can see the advantage of an uncrowded place - sprawling bungalows and individual houses. But also the lack of planning in town development. But hey, is there any town in India which can boast that?

The winding road is quite motorable, but a 2-lane with no divider. So average speeds are low since its difficult overtaking slow vehicles. The 140 km taking about 4 hours.

Once you leave Mangalore, the road stretchs along orchards of betelnut, coconut and banana giving a cool and pleasant view. The fertile land ensures lots of greenery on both sides of the road. Much of the road is also lined with cottages and bungalows - probably the owners of the orchards.

There is a continuous stream of houses and civilisation. Nothing to symbolise the passing of one village/town/district and entering another one. (Not as populated as Kerala though) Passed the 80 km milestone to Madekeri (Coorg).

....... More of the same - downhill and uphill. Ads of submersible pumps, AC sheets, Jewellery and Cement. Thankfully, no speed breakers on the way. (Especially since I am on the last seat of a Qualis)

Passed through Sullia - a large-ish town - more like a one street town with shops, establishments on both sides. It is amazing that State Highways pass right through the middle of towns instead of taking a by-pass around it. Not only is it a public hazard for the residents, but also reduces the average speed of travel.

Now 20 km away and vegetation becomes thicker, road bumpier, climb steeper, and lost mobile signal. Now rubber trees with contraptions to collect the sap. Reach Madekeri.