Adults in the Toy Train?

After a good 4hours walking around Coonoor, we were making our way towards the exit at Sim's Park when my friend was telling her daughter about the Toy Train. The Kiddo looked up at us and said with all innocence "but how will you all fit into it, how will you come to Ooty?".We laughed and then explained to her that though it was called the Toy Train, it was for people of all ages and sizes...

 

A steam engine takes place of honour outside the Coonoor station after having given years of service to the railways. 

 It was my last day there in Ooty and my friend's husband [well, he is also a dear friend now] suggested we explore Coonoor and maybe try the Toy Train from Coonoor to Ooty. We all chimed in "Yayy", but then came the question of how do we do this? logistics? I suggested Bus or cab, friend's hubby A said "We'll drive down, you guys come by train, I'll drive back to Ooty and pick you up". I screamed at him saying that was a stupid idea and no fun. Finally, we hired a cab from the resort, picked up tickets for the train journey from Ooty station and headed out.

 A church i spotted while waiting at Coonoor station

The clock was about to strike 4.25 as we rushed into the station, spotted the TTR and found our compartment and seats. It was very different from the Mettupalayam Ooty train, probably cos we were in the  2nd class compartments. The seats were wooden planks, and small cubicles with small rickety windows. Anyways, we were all excited and quite high :-)

The train took one hour to complete the 18km journey, but the sights were worth the time. The lush greenery, endless mountains with green fields, clouds gliding across the mountain tops, and the herds of Bison that were grazing along the railway track that paused to give us a look [ i kid you not, they stared right at us as if to say Whats up?]  and ofcourse the 16 tunnels. Our cab driver had mentioned that some parts of the Chaiyya Chaiyaa song from Dil Se had been shot here on the tracks and we wondered where.

We crossed Wellington, Ketti Valley, Lovedale before pulling into Ooty station. The kids were excited to spot our cab driver on the platform. What a fun journey that was!!

The train operates through the day, about 4 times, from Ooty to Coonoor and back. The last on schedule is

4.30pm departure from Coonoor to reach Ooty at 5.25pm. You will see a chart with timings in Ooty station,  and the counter opens 45mins before the train departure time. 

The cost of ticket for the 5 of us in 2nd class was Rs138/- .. If you go early, you can grab a seat in the 1st class.

This post is also an entry for momentum of moments contest of www.redbus.in

Flower Friday...You are a survivor!

Today is Friday, Today is also International Women's Day! And today was Flower Friday theme on Chennai Bloggers Club! 

Here are a few flowers that I came upon, that I think represent a Woman beautifully! 

Naga Pushpam- uncle brought it from the temple today. It has so many layers, the outer petals so thick protecting the delicate center from harm. The center too has multiple layers. just like a woman who has all these layers, an exterior that helps her deal with life and people... 

Frangipani- I love this flower, spotted this bunch on the tree in Tranquebar at Neemrana Bungalow on the beach. I spotted white and then I also spotted this pink, purple and yellow coloured flowers. They are always either in a cluster or single. Thick petals, an elegant shape and they stand out when compared to other flowers. Just like every woman, each one is unique, stands out and oozes with charm and strength..

Skywatch Friday.. Flower Friday.... Roses Galore

We were in the Blue hills, the Nilgiris and this trip was with my dear darling friend and her family [who are as good as mine]. Since it was my friend's 1st time in Ooty, we decided to do all the touristy things. One of them was a visit to the Rose gardens[also called Centenary Rose Park], situated on the slopes of the Elk Hill in Vijayanagaram area. Luring the kids with a promise of a park, we piled into the car and drove down to the place. Upon parking the car, I ran ahead with the kids only to stop stumped. The Rose gardens seemed never ending. My friend's son and I tried to see far ahead and all we saw was mist and a hill hiding behind the sheet. Wow... We wondered how large the garden was and if we would be able to explore the entire space. The other interesting thing about this place is that the tiles you walk on have rose image engraved on them. :-) 

Jumping down the staircase one at a time, we kept pointing out to the largest rose in the garden. He would point to one, and I would rush over to see it; pretty soon his sister would point to one and we would tumble across. This went on till my friend and her hubby joined us and knocked some sense into our heads [atleast we let them think they did..] My friend had knee pain, and could not walk long. We asked them to rest in the gazebo while the brat and moi went ahead. The girlie wanted to join, but I knew both would be more than  a handful. I made a pact, 2 rounds with her brother and then it would be her turn to walk with me. :-) 

The roses we saw were beautiful, some were huge, bigger than my palm [yes, I have big hands]. It was such a burst of colour- pale pink, bright pink, white, red, burgundy, yellow, orange, peach, orange and red, yellow and red, the colours were just amazing. Some were small, some were large, some with pretty petals while others had small petals. Some stood tall, while others seemed to be searching for something on the ground below. 

The skies were clear and blue, the roses such a stark contrast to the soothing skies, as if they were telling the visitors "this is how life is, good and bad, bright and dull, learn to accept & move on"... 

Phew, not sure how long we were there, but we were exhausted and had managed to see about 3/4th of the place. Would need a day, but we dint have that kind of time. Suddenly, I heard my name being called out. It was time to scoot, we headed out but not before taking a few group photographs. 

PS: This garden has received the as "Garden of Excellence" by the World Federation of Rose Societies (WFRS) in 2006.. There are only 4 other gardens to have received this award. 

For more beautiful skies, visit skywatch Friday. Am also submitting this for Flower Friday, the theme set by Chennai Bloggers Club for today! 

Pretty Pansy in Ooty

During my visits to Ooty, spending a few hours at the Botanical Garden has become a routine of sorts. This time too i was there with friends, mainly cos it was my friend's 1st time in Ooty and because the gardens provided the kids open space to run and have some fun. 

I noticed this peculiar flower during my earlier visits as well. This time, i went up to a lady sitting nearby [who  had a bucket and a broomstick, and looked like someone who took care of the place] and enquired about this flower. She said it was called the Pansy, and dint know any more. They always remind me of Master Shifu from Kung Fu panda. the tiny face, focussed eyes and cute structure i guess.  Here are some shots from the recent visits and finally one from my earlier visit. 

                                                More from Ooty can be seen/read here

Skywatch Friday and 275th post... Welcome to the Blue Hills

It is not often that you take a holiday that leaves you wanting more. I had one such experience recently. Even though it was a trip to a familiar destination, it was with friend and her family, which made a world of difference. I enjoyed myself, visited familiar sites, saw new things, explored unseen sites, spent nights playing card games and word games. Must also mention that this was my 1st time at a Club Mahindra property. :-) We stayed at Club Mahindra's Derby Green in Ooty... 

The temperatures were 12-18 during the day and 5-7 at night. It was heavenly, being able to walk around in a Tee shirt and capri, not worrying about sweat, enjoying a hot cuppa chai and a bowl of maggi after spending hours exploring the Botanical Gardens. It sure was a memorable vacation :-) 

 

And through the days, the clouds and blue skies kept us excited, the drama, the movements, the shapes, it was sheer magical..... sweet memories....

Participating in Skywatch after long and just realised this is my 275th post on this blog!! Yayy~!!

For more beautiful skies, visit Skywatch Friday ... Well, today is the last Skywatch of this year, see you all in 2013. Wish you a very Happy New year!

Skywatch Friday... Rolling grasslands

The winding path, and clear skies kept us company as we drove from Ooty towards Wellington. Why? After 3 fun days with the dogs & their owners/trainers, it was time to check out the Horse show that happens at the Gymkhana Club every year. The lush greenery, beautiful endless stretch of mountains was just breath taking.

 

As we entered Wellington, i spotted a few horses running in the wild, and thought to myself  "how wonderful it must be... to be so free.." and just as my mind was beginning to wander, the car came to a halt and i was welcomed by the sight of children all dressed in Jockey outfits, looking smart and ready for the challenge. The Equestrian track had been set, and rules were being announced. I took a few minutes to wander the vast club before heading out towards the judges tent to watch the show. There were a few brown horses, 2 white and a majestic black one. One of the riders looked like a kid, she was no more than 12yrs of age. 

Once the signal was made, off they went, jumping, skipping, trotting and running across the various obstacles. I watched them with bated breath, praying none trip and fall, or lose a point for not making the jump. Phew, it was quite an exhilarating experience.

Subsequent to the show, i wandered towards a group of children sitting under a tent, only to discover they were all students from the Equestrian club, aged between 6 and 12, and were here to participate in the show. Past them was where some of the owners were walking about while their horses were being tended to by helpers. Wow, what a day it had been.. The hours spent watching the horses jump and work their magic, the kids rejoice every time a friend achieved a medal added to the experience.

For more beautiful skies, visit Skywatch Friday

The Thread Gardens in Ooty

I walked out of the Botanical Gardens thirsty for more.. I wanted to explore Ooty some more.. I knew i might not have time the coming few days and decided to make the most of the day left. Hopped into an auto, and asked him to take me to the Lake.. I had no plans of going Boating, but wanted to walk around, enjoy the place. 

As i got off near the Boat house entrance, i noticed a board across the road "Thread gardens". The place looked run down and unkempt. But i dint let that alter my decision... Few short steps and i was at Ticket counter. The entry is Rs10 and additional Rs15 if you wish to take pictures. I noticed a man standing near the entrance, and the minute he saw people coming by, he got ready. He spoke about the gardens, the items on display and what was unique about them. 

This beautiful garden has been created by Mr. Antony Joseph and his team of 50 workers over 12years. Nearly 6cr meters of embroidery thread has been used in creating this one of a kind garden. And, to top it off, no machine has been used to create the flowers, lawns, ponds and so on. They have all been done by hand. Amazing...  You need to see it to believe it... 

A self invented technology called 'Four Dimensional hand-wound Embroidery' was utilized in creating the garden. There are over 400 different colours apart from the natural coloured threads that have been used across the display.  

Cardboards formed the base for the flowers and petals while copper& Steel wires became stems, all of which have been covered with colourful threads.  In all, there were about 150 kinds of flower and decors which will remain fresh and alive for years to come.  

Infact, as the walk through the gardens came to an end, i spotted a table with a few individual flower plants nestled within glass case for sale. These too had been painstakingly woven from thread....Beautiful.. I couldnt imagine having so much patience, doing such intricate weaving by hand...

Love in the middle of nowhere

I was in Ooty few years ago on an assignment. I had landed a day early, and decided to wander around, explore a bit before i got into work mode. As i walked downhill towards Charring Cross, i spotted this abandoned sculpture sitting on the side wall..

"Love is eternal & needs no fancy place or comfortable surroundings" they seem to say...  Have a wonderful day!

May you find love in everything you do and see.

dos horas- Sheer Bliss

If you had two extra hours in a day, how would you spend it? 

And that is what Indiblogger asks us to share through this new contest called  Surf Excel Matic #GetSmart Contest 

“Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't
own it, but you can use it. You can't keep
it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it

you can never get it back.”~  Harvey MacKay

  

With my head resting on the window pane, i let my wind wander as the Dave Mathews Band belted out Rapunzel.. The cool breeze managed to sneak in through the gap in the windows, running a shiver up my neck while my hands searched for the elusive shawl..  I was lost with my thoughts, reflecting on life, wondering if it would have been any different had i realised what i wanted to do early on in life.. I brushed aside those thoughts and decided not to worry about the past, knowing that the Tomorrow was what i need to look forward to..
 

The lady in the seat next to mine was tossing and turning, i could feel her every movement with the little squeaks from the rexin seats, but the momentary disturbance was over and my thoughts engulfed me once more.  I checked the time one last time and noticed the clock glowing 3.15am. Smiling at the prospect of what awaited me, i was off into the wonderful world where there was none but me, and there were no advices, nor where there any chaos. I was in heaven, enjoying this blissful moment with myself. Before i knew it, i heard the bus brake to a halt and all the passengers bustling about within the bus looking for their bags and trying to come awake and alight the bus.

I hopped off the bus with a smile on my face before heading off in search of an auto-rickshaw to take me to the guest house.  Those dos horas [2 hours] from 3.15 to 6.15 was the 2 hours i shall savor the rest of my life.

Every now and then i wonder if ever i will get 2 such hours where i can be with myself and my thoughts...

Yellow flowers in Blue hills

Walking down the road enjoying the cool breeze brushing against my face, i walked aimlessly till i reached the gates of the Botanical Gardens in Ooty. Took my own sweet time exploring the gardens, the green house and the various trees inside the park. 

There were plants big and small, trees new and old; not to forget the hoards of people lazing on the lawns and enjoying a family picnic... The weather was perfect for walking, and my camera was begging me to take some shots... 

As i was exiting the park, a lady came towards me holding a bunch of the prettiest looking flowers. They were yellow, small and cute. But, i wasnt sure if they were real flower or fake, so i put my hand out and touched them. The petals felt like paper, but the lady assured me they were real flowers, and blossomed only in Ooty with a long lifespan.... I was tempted to buy a bunch, but since i had just landed in Ooty, i decided to come back for them later. 

I walked away smiling to myself thinking :Yellow flowers in the Blue hills[Nilgiris]...

Skywatch Friday -- St Stephen's Church, Ooty

Was taking a break from work and glancing through my photo albums when i stumbled upon the one titled "Ooty". Its been 2years since my last visit and i sure hope i get the chance to revisit the hill station. 

Back in school when i had visited Ooty 1st time, the toy train had us all in squeals, laughing and cheering on.. And later, when we visited Ooty during my MBA days for a holiday + workshop, we were enjoying the sights and scenes that came along with us. We were 4 close friends who wandered the town, took off on our own looking for hidden treasures, got into trouble for being late to the workshop sessions, but at the end we had FUN! 

The most recent trip was just me.. I travelled by Bus both ways, a good 12hour journey made easy thanks to music, book and decent company... 

Many who visit Ooty only know of the usual tourist spots.. But during my last trip, while i aimlessly roamed the winding path, i stumbled upon this magnificent church. Asked the cab to pull over and decided to explore a bit...

St Stephen's Church

 The Church is a Gothic church and is one of the best known colonial structures in Ooty.  The church was apparently constructed and carved totally from wood. The interiors are beautiful and it was cooler than outside..probably because of the wood. Stories around the Church say that the wood was brought from Tipu Sultan's palace and was transported to Ooty through elephants.

The Stained glass images were beyond beautiful.. Words dont do justice...

There is also a life size portrait of the Last Supper near the doorway...

Info from the net:

The pulpit is on the left of the chancel and attached to it is a small flight of steps. A pleasant surprise awaits one in the attic of the third tier of the church. Here, instead of the big metallic bell, one comes across novel but antique hammer like structures (four in number) tied on to inverted "V" Shaped planks, with ropes. There are four thick iron bars on the Eastern as well as the Western side screwed on to thick wooden beams and they hang from above at different heights in a slanting fashion, and face each other. There are pulleys attached with solid wires, which operate the hammers, and which reach the ground floor through the gaps in between the planks on the floor. The entire structure is housed on a tall, sturdy stool, which is open on all the fourth sides. When the wires are pulled from the floor, a rhythmic musical sound is produced..  [Source: http://www.tamilnadu-tourism.com/tamil-nadu-temples/st-stephens-church.html]

I walked around the campus, taking in the beautiful architecture when suddenly the security guard came over and asked me to leave as it was closing time....

For more beautiful skies, visit Skywatch Friday

Project 365 Day 70 Look

A siberian husky was busy observing the other dogs around at the Dog show... These are such gorgeous creatures and were absolutely friendly.... :-))

Taken during Ooty Dog show in 2010...

Project 365 Day 69 Forever

During my ooty visit last year, while walking on the road, i noticed these yellow flowers all over. There were quite a few selling them, and i approached a lady to find out what they were..


She rattled off a name, which i instantly forgot
The one thing she mentioned that i remember is that it will last forever.... 
I felt the petals, it infact felt like paper, dry and thick... The lady saw my face change expression and assured me it was a real flower....  

I brought home some and gifted it to a friend of mine!! 


Imagine if we too had something we liked remained with us forever... How beautiful that would be!! 

Project 365 Day 68 Love

At the Ooty dog show, i saw these two doggies nose to nose and thought that was the cutest thing ever!!  They belonged to the same owner.. The Llasapso was just there, while the Lab was a winner and she was just about a year old... 

Was reminded of the good fun i had on that project that took me to Ooty for 5 awesome days.. Not only did i get to beat Chennai heat, but got the opportunity to be among dogs of various breeds, sizes and characters... What fun!! 

Project 365 Day 61 Furball

While in Ooty last year, i got the opportunity to cover the Dog & Horse show for a magazine... Saw so many interesting breeds of dogs, one of which was the Chow Chow.. The dog was absolutely adorable, and friendly, and the only one of its kind in the show... 

When speaking to the owner, the lady did mention they were high maintenance, and needed to be in cool climate... But were awesome pets and this one guarded the house like as if it were a fort... 


What fun those 4 days were... surrounded by dogs across sizes, breeds, colours... Beautiful!! memorable...

Project 365 Day 49 Deep

The brown in these flowers seemed to stare at me as if to make me question myself.  The yellow was the calm and peace that i felt within at times.. These were the flowers in Botanical Garden in Ooty, the beautiful hillstation in Nilgiris [blue mountains] 

Though i was there on work, i did manage to sneak out some time, walk along the cobbled streets, watch the buzz of people going to and returning from various tourist spots and their offices... It sure was a wonderful way to enjoy the cool breeze!! 

The Gardens beckon

It had been 10years since my last visit to Ooty,and memories came flooding as the bus reached Ooty. While waiting for a ride to take me to the YWCA[charring cross], my mind began wandering listening to the conversations floating in the air from the group standing next to me. They spoke about going boating, to a thread garden and then to Coonoor.

It was the month of May, Chennai was crazy hot and Ooty was so cool and windy... I knew i was going to love the 5days there...  The room i stayed in was within walking distance from the gardens and so that was where i headed the 1st day... Grabbing a sandwich and coffee at Cafe Coffee Day, armed with my camera and wallet i made my way to the Botanical garden

This Botanical Garden was laid out in 1847 by the Marquis of Tweedale and is spread over 55 acres. Lush green well maintained lawns, rare tree species (like the cork tree which is probably the only such tree in India, the paper bark tree and the monkey puzzle tree - monkeys cannot climb this tree), a 20 million year old fossilized tree, an Italian-style garden bordering a clear pool, a vast variety of flowering bushes and plants in myriad hues (exotic and ornamental), fern house with a vast range of ferns and orchids, are some of the many highlights of this garden

The beautiful horse cart that stood at the entrance of the garden....

The infamous India Map....













I walked for nearly 2hours and i knew i had seen not more than 30% of the park, that is how vast this garden was..... There were people everywhere, some were wandering about, while others had plonked to rest their feet or grab some lunch. It resembled a picnic spot of sorts... Ofcourse not to forget the zillions who wanted their picture taken near every tree, pond and the various canopies... Was quite amusing....

 The Tree stump that was over 300 yrs old...

These flowers reminded me of  Master Shifu, the red panda from Kung Fu panda... 

 Hidden within was this quaint little building...

 A pretty flower in the Glass house situated right in the center

 The Three headed cactus as i call it..

As i was walking around the garden, a lady called me over asking if i would take a "picture" of her and her husband near a plant.. I obliged and did the same... She then went on to tell me how they were newly married and in Ooty for their honeymoon... A few minutes later, she stared at me as if waiting for a similar story from my end... 

"I am actually here on work, and had a free day, so came to visit the gardens"i replied.. The husband was stumped- i literally saw his mouth gape open... "You have come alone? How.. Why.... "... Managed to wiggle out of there after muttering a few sentences, which i could see had them puzzled... Luckily, the phone rang and i escaped the eyes of the newlyweds!! :D  

People and their opinions

Places and their beauty........