Cycle trip to Sinhagad Fort
Today I have had a cycle trip to one of Pune’s attraction,
Sinhagad Fort. It was my third such trip since living
in the historic city. The trip was around 70 Km cycling which also includes 12
km of walking and dragging your cycle through the steep Mountains. We actually
started 50 minutes late than the preplanned 7:20AM. I woke up late. Badri was
the co traveller; he woke me up at 7:30AM. I chose to wear half cargo & a
half T shirt & of course the shoes. I also carried one extra T shirt.
Sunlight was blissful at the starting & weather was cold when I left home
in the morning from Salunke Vihar, Pune. We chose to travel through our common
meeting point Fatima Nagar. We got tyre pressure tested and kicked through
Swargate to Sarasbagh nearing to Khadakwasla dam. It should be 9:30 AM till
then. Sun was going to start hitting. Since it was Sunday, traffic will be
bringing up in the scenic Khadakwasla dam & to the Fort at the top of
mountain. We decided to move towards the road to Sinhagad Fort. It was easy
traveling first 25 kms of the journey. Now there are steep mountains. Riding
few kms at the mountain, I was tired. So we decided to stop and add to our
energy with the carried fruits. We chose a stop under the shade of the
mountain. That was helpful. I thought I would cover the next journey easier now
with the energy boost, but mountain was rather mighty. I again stopped and sat
on the road. By this time height was giving good view of the dam and the tall
buildings of the city. I regularized my breath, had the realization of the
prevailing peace and bird voices and started to cycle. Scenes started to add
and the distance to the fort started to reduce. There were riders who started
much early and were now returning. It was good to notice that they were all
cheered us up. That motivated us to ride hard although Sun! Traveling farer, we
stopped to have sprouts. Fruits and sprouts were carried by Badri without which
it was tough to ride. When around 2kms left cold wind started to hit and it was
blissful. It was like we earned the air. At the moment, Badri told me that
“only 1km is left”, I cried tiringly, “Damn, 1 more to go!” As we reached up,
we ran towards the shop to quench our hungry stomach.
Children are really funny. Before starting to ride towards
mountain, I stopped to buy some energy drink. There at the shop were 2 siblings
who were amazed to see my cycle. Then there were children siting on the cars
riding up. Returning was smooth. It hardly took us 15 mins to get down from the mountain leaving all the scenic beauty and peace. Then we stopped by the dam, got our leg wet and proceeded to Pune. Immediately there was more traffic and crowd and honks...
What I think that should be carried in the cycle trip? Take
something high nutrient containing food like sprouts and fruits to eat along
the way that will help in boosting energy on the way, also carry a bottle of
water. Take necessary tools like Allen key. Bring goggles, helmet and gloves
for hand, First Aid Kit. Bring one book for reading & a small carpet to sit.
It was a good experience today. Cycle trip is a source to push
your limits and in knowing your capabilities.
Sitting on the way
While riding
A view from the top
On the way
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