Between the ever active life at Amrita School of Business – Coimbatore (ASB), the frequent getaways around the city is an opportunity for us to relax ourselves and in meeting the best of nature.
The first weekend of 2014 was destined for us to witness the enchanting place named Valparai. So, with the start of the year, we – a bunch of 8 friends – were on a mission to explore the hill station, with all our might.
Starting off our journey from Gandhipuram, our first stop was at Pollachi. It would be depressing to be on a journey, and not have a cup of tea! Along the way, nature had already started to bless us with it’s beauty. The sun was already kissing the floor and to be frank, we were jealous! It would be a pleasure to be on the receiving end of this scenery.
The Welcoming Hairpin Bends!
Upon the ascent to Valparai, it was a pretty sight which greeted us – 40-odd hairpin bends, which showcased us the view below with each ascent. With each curve, irony was gripping us – making us realize how minuscule we humans were! The numerous lights which were shining from different places, formed a serial pattern, like a necklace drawn upon the sky. No matter how much we witness, some sights never surprise us. At last, we halted at our friend’s place and settled in for the night.
When the sun rose for the next day, the sights awaiting weren’t earth-like! We were used to seeing nature all around us at ASB – the trees, birds and misty mornings – but this was total surprise! It was sheer envy which engrossed our minds, for the greenery was a significant part of life there. Tea leaves, tall trees, sunlight, vegetation – it was all natural. There was pure co-existence. A picture of a tree forming a heart was the perfect representation of this! A state of pure love, with nature and with humankind.
Natural Devotion: A Blending
Our first stop for the day was the Karumalai Velankani Matha Church. A sight very divine indeed, the architecture and the stream of water besides, forming a pretty landscape. Along with several others, it was inspiring to take in the internal ambiance of the church. Even if we exclude the devotional part, the inside architecture was just complete and marvelous.
Trekking has been a very tempting activity at ASB with the background Western Ghats. Witnessing the streams of water, brought about the same intensity of excitement. We explored, across various dimensions, for nature never ceases to entice!
A Canal of Infinity
No. That’s not the official name of the place, but I could give it only that! A small foot bridge that connects the two sides of the canal formed our aide. We all stood besides it, relishing the whole scene. It was a symbol of duality. One side portraying a wide view of trees, while the other showing a tunnel, which travels into darkness. A light waterfall besides it, formed the bonus. The whole spelled of greenery all over.
Tea Gardens of Simplicity
A wide range of tea gardens, surrounded by certain civil buildings was the next stop. The aura of the place spoke of a ‘vintage effect’. The architecture of the nearby school, was ancient in visual – old doors and the wood smelt of age coated with blue paint. The shades, evident throughout the locality, spoke of a calm sensation.
The Last Step: Unexplored Corners
The closing ceremony was at Sholayar dam. But rather than the dam and the waters, the nearby inert park kept us busy. The sun was kissing the waters with husky lights. At the park, a dead fountain gathered the limelight at the center, while the other attention was a broken down house.
For us, all these became properties of our imagination, fueling our drives to experiment. The calm evening and the sun glazing through the branches, was signaling the end of the day. We tried to race with the sun in capturing the visuals and it must be said – we ended up with a tie! It was time to wrap up the journey and return to normal life. One thing was sure; there was certainly another visit beckoning to Valparai. Probably, many years down the lane, a get together? We Never Know!