Bangalore Jeep Club
Original Itinerary:
8th Nov (Thursday) – 11th Nov (Sunday)
8th is Gujrat new year + Govardhan Pooja + Balipadyami and Friday everyone joining needs to take an off.
Location: Ashvem Beach, Ashvem Wada, Mandrem, Goa 403512
Resort: www.theregaliaresort.com
The discussion on the 1st ever JeepHers drive was initiated couple of months back in the JeepHers whatsapp group but took shape into a solid plan only in the last week of September. Yelagiri, a hill station is approximately 178 Kms from Bangalore with 14 hairpin bends and an ideal venue for a one day drive. We decided to spend the day at ‘The Thrill Valley’, an adventure club, which had lot of games for both elders and kids. The initial date planned was Oct 6th and we had just a week’s time to make all the arrangements. Being JeepHers we were not willing to settle for anything less and wanted the best of T Shirts and stickers designed exclusively for the drive. One of the JeepHer took the initiative and got them printed and ready all in a week’s time.
The recce was conducted on 4th October under poor and wet weather conditions. As per the weather reports heavy rains were predicted on the weekend too and it was felt that it would not be safe to drive in the hills due to poor visibility. Reluctantly we decided to change the date to 14th October. We were determined to go ahead with the plan and we set out for the drive along with some of our friends. One of the Jeeper Husband accompanied too. We allowed him to be part of the drive only if he accepted to be the official photographer for the trip which he accepted wholeheartedly as he was the only male member among 10 JeepHers and 2 JeepKids.
We started from Attibele at 7:45am and the first stop was Murugan Idli at Krishnagiri. We put the photographer to the job immediately and we posed for pictures showing off our bright red t-shirts with slogans “JeepHers go places”, “JeepHers Make it Happen” and “Bengaluru JeepHers”. After we tucked into a sumptuous breakfast, one of the JeepHer came up with an idea of a Jeep formation. Now with only 4 Jeeps what could we form???? We decided to form the letter “W” representing the women. Nothing is impossible if the women make up their mind. In no time the letter “W” was formed and our photographer went up to the terrace to take an aerial picture.
After spending more than an hour at Murugan idli we started off for the drive in a trail. Driving through the scenic beauty of the hills, eucalyptus trees and clean fresh air with lots of monkeys adorning the route was a treat to the eyes. We reached The Thrill Valley by 11 and were welcomed by the ever-smiling staff members with a refreshing lemon juice.
There were many options for games, which we chose and started to explore the games. Not to forget some more work for the official photographer with more poses. We tried all Zip line, Zurfing, ATVs, Target Shooting, Burma Bridge, etc with lot of screaming, screeching, laughing and coaxing each other to participate and monkeying on the trees for a photo session before lunch.
We assembled at the dining hall by 2pm for lunch. The lunch was a classic example of “Oota from your Thota” (food from your garden). The taste and aroma of the lunch still lingers in our tongue.
Post lunch we decided to shake our legs to some peppy music to digest the heavy food. The two JeepKids entertained us with some impromptu dance numbers and challenged us to perform with them.
Well… all good things must come to an end …. Time to start back home now. We had a round of piping hot ginger tea before we started our return journey with a promise to have another JeepHers drive soon.
– BJC JeepHers
A much talked about drive was scheduled on the above dates with 11 Jeepers from Bangalore and 2 from Kerala merged together for this drive. BJC and GOJ started from their respective locations to meet at world famous Jog falls. GOJ started couple of hours earlier than BJC Jeepers and had breakfast at Sagar Ratna (GOJ) / Shree Rathnam (BJC) – which was the meeting point for all namma Bengaluru Jeepers.
Started off 20 mins behind schedule but were able to cover up the time to lunch point at Mallikarjuna Residency, Ranebennur a little early. While the Jeepers from Kerala reached Jog falls by afternoon. After a delicious lunch the BJC Jeepers started off to wade through country side state highway for a glorious drive through green path. The convoy had to halt for few minutes due to a road block near Hirekerur as a tanker tumbled on the road – the block was cleared quickly with intervention of our Jeeper and help of the crane at the spot.
The BJC convoy arrived at Jog falls by quarter to four, and was welcomed by flashing cameras by the onlookers who were stunned to see so many Jeeps at the parking lot. The view was spectacular at the falls from the west side, even though the water flow was comparatively less. Jeepers proceeded to the main view point to meet up with GOJs, a couple of hours spent with a short tea break at the view point and the entire convoy proceeded for yet another narrow cruising to reach the beach resort.
Arrived at the beach resort a little late than scheduled time due to narrow roads and couple of minutes break in convoy. Jeepers quickly refreshed and headed directly to the beach for a short walk, later proceeded to the dinner table by the shore. A quick dinner with a few guzzles of various liquors – it was a retire time to bed, a few Jeepers continued the gulps sharing their Jeep experiences till late midnight.
Day two started early morning with Jeepers walk on the shore and hands on fishing nets with local fishermen. After breakfast the drive started for trek to Yana, again the recce team had opted for a drive through dense and narrow forest to reach Yana. Jeepers had a breathtaking trek to reach the famous temple on hill top. A quick lunch downhill and everyone headed to an off roading path to reach back to resort. This was commendable job by the recce Jeeper to take us through such secluded road through the grape fields to reach the peak point. Few Jeepers demonstrated their extreme off roading skills to jeer the other Jeepers – who later joined the treacherous off roading on the muddy rocks. The view of Jeeps lined up was astonishing a top the hill, hundreds of photo clicks and we headed back to our resort. Jeepers took a stretched dip in the sea on the private beach and also cycling on the shore. The dinner table was replicated like the day one but with more time to spend and share experiences, the extended night spirits gushed too like day one for few Jeepers.
Day three curtain opened with a surprise drive to beach with a recce by fellow Jeepers exploring the possibilities to conquer the path to beach from a nearby fishermen’s lane. Everyone were thrilled by the performance of their Jeeps on the sand and also paddling through the sea water splashing the salty water on the Jeeper photographer. Some extremities on the beach, led to a sand stuck Jeeps which was later steered safely with the help of other Jeepers. Overall it was a thrilling experience and back to resort everyone were on washing duty for their respective Jeeps. A late breakfast and convoy began their journey to another green drive through jungle to reach the next spot Dandeli. The drive was remarkable with quite a few water falls enroute and a spectacular view of the Kaiga power station from the hill, proceeding the journey to pass through the bridge right below the dam. The expedition continued through Anshi national park to reach the river side resort at Dandeli. Jeepers spent ample time on the river front with a coracle ride. The planned white river rafting was not accomplished due to the temporary ban on rafting citing to heavy water flow.
A dine and dance on the river front with a cultural performance by locals was awesome, which concluded with the birthday celebrations of a Jeepyounger. Cookies and home made chocolates prepared by a JeepHer was distributed to the local children from nearby villages, who had joined us to witness the cultural performance. To add to the celebrations, a local small screen celebrity was invited specially to entertain us. Jeepers retired to bed a bit late and few awake till early morning with their glasses. Thus the screens were rolled down for yet another incredible drive.
Day four GOJs started off early morning and BJC Jeepers checked out after their breakfast to head back to their homes. While GOJs were driving back home enjoying delicious sea food, the Bengaluru Jeepers ended up at same lunch point where they started off from on day one. Another tea break and everyone landed safely by late evening, cherishing the memorable drive and thanking whole heartedly to the organisers. Another remarkable trail thus concluded “Drive to Gokarna without visiting Gokarna”.
Original Itinerary:
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4
Well it was in the month of June’18 when many of us 1st heard this name “Javadi Hills”. It is an extension to Eastern Ghats, and for Tribe BJC enticing one day drive covering 400kms. It took Tribe BJC longest to materialise this plan from the date of conceptualisation (reasons unknown), but all thanks to our members who constantly brings the shelved ideas and execute.
The 1st stop was at Murugan Idly shop (speciality of Madurai, now available just before Krishangiri toll) for a good heavy breakfast for the day ahead.
Surprise visit by fellow Jeeper at the Murugan Idly shop to photo-bomb (a true reflection of enthusiasm and harmony amongst the tribe), even if he was not joining he stopped over to wish the Jeepers luck for the day.
Line up time guys, was what I heard from our HR. The convoy decided to take a tougher route to reach our next destination which was GoGo Camping site. The team reached Gogo Camping, time for bio-break, conversations and delicious food. The food was so yum that immediately, few went on for a quick nap (power nap to be apt).
What Next!!!
The time to explore the unexplored!!! We started our journey to conquer the unexplored place (with 4×4 around, we were sure that no one can get stuck). Then came the moment, a 200 mtrs stretch with STEEP incline angle (300 – 350) brings the convoy to a halt. As usual, it was a tussle between the enthusiasm and engineering, and enthusiasm wins with flying colours (when a 4×2 vehicle did what was meant for 4×4 capabilities only). Before putting the vehicle in the Recce team was on the feet checking each and every pit / pot drivable angles, a thorough study and together we decided to give it a go.
The entire group was at standby watching the Red beauty to take this task, and as expected it stopped midway. A little step back it took like a Lion will do before attacking again, and WOW the Jeep Compass made it with ease in 2nd try.
What a feat it was, and immediately next 4×4 rushed to replicate the same, and it just did in 1 go (experience and learning from 1st vehicle) and then the 3rd went on with ease.
Then came another moment when our Jeep’her pushed her 4×2 to emulate 4×4 feats. Attempt no.1 took her to 30% and second attempt covered 60% of the track. And the lioness went all the way back to give another go, swapping of wheel with navigator, none at that moment believed in (if will make it to the top).
Yes, expect the unexpected (that’s what JEEPLIFE is) and in a flash we saw the Jeep on top of the hill. The tired (exhausted / dehydrated) jeepers (took brunt from the scorching heat / Sun) returned back to GoGo camping for a tea break which was prolonged with stories / experiences from fellow Jeepers. This was the time when baby Jeeper (11 months old) brings back smiles in the room. Her naughtiness was motivating, as she was the only one who didn’t look tired at that moment and wanting to do more.
Someone in background shout ‘out time for Lake Bed guys!!!
Jeepers spent time spinning, drifting, in the not so wet (not so dry) lake bed and posed for pictures. One could see flooding of cameras and shutter cluttered with 7.1 surround sound impact.
Finally, time for Vainu Bappu Observatory (Asia/s largest) and treat for eyes.
A day is said to be well spent when everyone in the group returns back with SMILE and itched with memories of the Jeep trail, and that’s how it becomes a TALE.
More Information:
The Independence Day was celebrated across the country to commemorate our independence from British colonialism. All the regional Jeep Clubs under JEEPAG across India, had jointly planned for “Freedom Drive” with a unique motive for the drive in their respective cities – in a view to give back something to our country and needy.
BJC along with KHT Prime had organized for the drive with a motive to pledge for eye/organ donation through Rotary Orchards and to support the Para Athletes of the NGO Divyaang Maitri.
The drive with 47 Jeeps were flagged off from 3 different locations of KHT Prime Centres, and two of the convoys assembled near the meeting point in HSR Layout while the other headed directly to resort. All Jeepers most of them in their ethnic wear further proceeded for a short drive to Jain Farms wherein the lunch was organized by KHT Prime. Jeepers also spent couple of hours exploring the green resort and HANDS OFF from their Jeep Steering – to HANDS ON for a few thrilling forgotten games at the resort.
On this day of pledging to donate eyes, it was eye-catching view with most of the Jeepers in their ethnic wear on the sprawling grounds. Jeepag etched sweets were distributed among Jeepers followed by lunch. Jeepers cherished experiences with their Jeep and articulated some unresolved issues with KHT Team. The day was flourishing with many Jeepers exchanging their views and thus concluded post lunch.
A whooping 19 Jeepers and their family members pledged to donate eyes out of the 47 Jeeps that participated in the event, coincidentally putting this together we arrived at our year of independence 1947.
Happy Jeeping and a request to new Jeepers to be punctual for all our drives.
Original Agenda:
KHT Prime and Bangalore Jeep Club have planned the Independence Day Drive on Aug 15th, 2018 to Jain Farms.
Theme – Pledging for Eye donation with Rotary Orchards, Bangalore
09:30am: Flag off from KHT Prime Yeshwanthpur.
09:45am: Flag off from KHT Prime Mahadevpura (Whitefield).
10:00am: Flag off from KHT Prime Domlur.
10:15am: Assemble at Freedom International School, HSR Layout.
10:45am: Start to Jain Farms, Hosur.
12:00pm: Reach Jain Farms followed by Flag hoisting.
01:00pm: Lunch and disburse.
Jain Farms http://www.jainfarms.com offer a plethora of activities within the resort which can be availed at own cost.
As a good will gesture you may donate for Divyaang Maitri, an NGO run by para athletes for para athletes to represent in domestic and international sports. They also nurture young para athletes. Visit https://www.divyaangmyithri.com/
Kindly do Register at https://www.jeepag.com also, a fast growing Pan-India Jeepers’ Community.
All JeepAG Clubs are planning a Pan-India Independence Trail in their respective Regions, more details here soon.
KHT Prime and Bangalore Jeep Club have planned the Independence Day Drive on Aug 15th, 2018 to Jain Farms.
Theme – Pledging for Eye donation with Rotary Orchards, Bangalore
Jain Farms http://www.jainfarms.com offer a plethora of activities within the resort which can be availed at own cost.
As a good will gesture you may donate for Divyaang Maitri, an NGO run by para athletes for para athletes to represent in domestic and international sports. They also nurture young para athletes. Visit https://www.divyaangmyithri.com/
Find More details and Register for the Bangalore Jeep Club’s Independence Day Drive Here.
Original Itinerary:
Dates: Aug 3rd to 5th, 2018
– Start from Attibelle toll plaza at 5pm on 3rd Aug Friday
– Jeepers to night halt at Madhurai
– 4th early morning visit to Meenakshi temple and proceed for Rameshwaram
– 4th night halt at Dhanushkodi
– 5th morning post sunrise, return journey to Bangalore.
BJC Jeepers notorious for their punctuality, arrived at the start point minutes before the scheduled time including the Big Daddy Willys. The Big Daddy Willys lead the way for all other Jeepers and for the first time ever the JCs were lined up according to their colours, with blue at the front as it is the colour that shows creativity and intelligence followed by contrasting colours to end with Red at tail depicting our passion & love for Jeep.
It was a spectacular view in the form of a snake crawling at a good speed, as the roads were curvy for the entire stretch. The Cobra with army green Willys head and colourful from head to tail – blue, black, white, silver and red had a stunning representation of the reptile on the road.
This was a great feast for eyes to the public en route and the coloured line up of convoy added more flavours. BJC Jeepers also well-known for admiringly over-speeding during every drive, were crawling in this drive with full respect to the Big Daddy leading the way.
After the delayed breakfast of Bangalore’s famous savory joint, the convoy continued the journey to Kurudmale Ganesha Temple to seek the blessings of supreme. Jeepers followed the convoy leading to off-roading activities with a short delay due to break in convoy while crossing multiple highways. The organisers helped to bring the lost Jeepers back to convoy and arriving at BEML Land for basic off-roading experience and to form the Legendary Jeep using the JCs.
It was a tremendous effort by Jeepers and their family to plan and align the JCs in forming the JEEP image. The entire BJC and later the Jeep community across India were astonished by the creativity and execution of such an innovative concept. This turned out to be the best breath taking moment for all Jeepers of BJC.
All Jeepers intended to go for lunch point were diverted to the second off-roading venue – the cyanide mountain. A quick off-roading experience on the dusty lands, took away the hunger from all, now it was the lead Jeep’s role to push back all other Jeepers to lunch point.
A delayed lunch at the golf resort and sharing memories of the drive with fellow Jeepers, there comes the curtain down for another remarkable drive. Jeepers started to wind off for the the day and head back to their homes. The cause for this drive was to donate all old clothes and toys to Samarthan Trust, all the Jeepers passed on their respective collections to a fellow Jeeper who had taken the lead and responsibility to hand over to the trust.
A few Jeepers spent more time for tea and planning for next drives, thus concluding the day with the memories of the Legendary Jeep formation.
Original Agenda/Itinerary:
Guidelines:
Midnight Meet @ Willys Top Cafe, Bangalore
Jeepers from BJC had a get-together with a short notice as usual – to witness the thrilling Brazil-Belgium FIFA at the distinguished JEEP Themed Cafe in Jayanagar, Bangalore.
The Cafe owned by a Jeep enthusiast hosted an exclusive seating only for Jeepers – an after closing hours service upon our request. We were whole heartedly welcomed by Mr. Aadesh the owner of this joint, who was equally thrilled to serve us late night for being from Bangalore Jeep Club.
The Cafe was designed with every details around the corner associated to the parts of JEEP. The swing seatings, benches resembling the rear seating of Willys, chairs with shock absorbers, bar stools from the tyre rims and the most highlighted one at the wash room – the wash basin made of inverted Engine / Gear Box with a steering tap, the mirror housed on the collapsible wind screen of JEEP Willys are a few to name… believe it or not there are much more to dig out.
The signature dishes served was uncommon and juicy with few cold coffee / mocktails. And obviously the mildest of the Hookas perfectly blended with flavours again recommended by them.
A little disheartening performance from our favorite team was atoned by the ambience of the Cafe and Jeepers sharing their experiences.
Jeepers departed post match with a heartfelt thanks to the Cafe for their warm hospitality beyond service hours and looking forward for the next meet / trails.
Bangalore Jeep Club has perfected an art of Sunday Jeep Drives/Breakfast Meetups, this is just another feather in the cap.
