Back to Aut.

We woke up comfortably and four of us took a walk to an adjoining hill. We talked for a while, and I tried in vain to take some pictures of birds. I decided to get a new camera.

Another dog at the camp

After breakfast we started off on our way. Chetan went ahead with Dimple in a bus. We started off together. My seat was fixed and my hand was feeling painless too.

This stretch had it's shares of highs and lows. There were some uphill climbs and several downhill slopes but could be managed without stopping considerably. I took off, hungry for some 16th gear riding and had a lovely time. I caught up with Uncle who had left much before us and then decided to hang out with him. We were together till the end of the ride.

We came to the 3km tunnel and again, it was a spectacular experience. A long tunnel with minimal lighting and oncoming traffic - I think it was a very good way to end the trek.

Uncle and I at the tunnel

I fastened my torch on my helmet for the tunnel stretch

We were welcomed by the cook cum cycle mechanic.I tried my final few tries at a wheelie and I'd like to state that I am now able to do it on cycle!

I loved this Fox

That done, and a victory drink later, our bikes were back to the garage to be locked up. We freshened up and chilled out. Our cook made an excellent lunch; sort of the congratulate us, I guess.

By evening there was some talk of riots happening somewhere. These were some folks from Rajasthan who were striking/rioting against the Govt., claiming minority status for their community. Most trains were cancelled, and Uncle, Manish, Chetan and Ved were in a dilemma. Sumedh and I had some plans to go over to Manali and check out Rohtang Pass.

Finally they got plane tickets for the 5th - three days from that day. Which meant they could come along for the Manali trip!! I was thrilled.. there was a lot more to come!
Harry couldn't make it though - he had some other prior commitments.

Well thats how it ends. Summer of 2007 in the Himalayas. Cycling upto 12,000 ft., 52 kilometers, 4 days. A couple of awesome people, excellent bikes and relaxed camp leaders. Fantastic.


Day 9. Aut to Manali.

We packed our bags and another well prepared breakfast and got ourselves ready. We had a certificate distributing ceremony..

L to R: Dimple, Uncle handing me the certificate, Helper at the Camp, Myself, and our friendly cook/cycle repairer

And we got on the next bus to Manali. We were to indulge in white water rafting and rent some bikes the next day to Rohtang Pass.

We left Aut. We had been on an expedition. It was a success.