HAMPI ROCK TOUR!!!

The last 2 weeks have been one of the most exciting weeks of my life. That’s when I was introduced to a sport called rock climbing. Now, rock climbing or any other sort of climbing has never interested me…I mean, what’s the big deal anyway. You have a rock and you climb it right?? Wrong!!! …….Rock climbing in India can be a culturally enriching experience quite apart from the exhilarating experience of climbing on virgin solid granite.

It’s just like a movie.. you’re hanging off a cliff (NO! I;m not talking about cliff hanger..) all u can hear is the howl of the winds at that height, add to that your heavy breathing...you move up, the run out is now ten meters, pinching tiny quartz crystal while the belayer pays out the rope. Nearby a shepherd passes by with his sheep. You are now almost at the top. A few more hard moves and then its all over as another new route is completed. (I can almost hear the drums now!!)

The place I visited was called Hampi. Also known as the "City of Rocks", 350 kilometers north of Bangalore is another very interesting place. The capital of the 14th Century Vijayanagar empire it is now a paradise for climbers. There is an endless number of boulders strewn ranging from four meters to 60 meters as far as the eye can see. The interesting ruins of this ancient capital city are spread over an area of 14 sq. km. One can spend days exploring this labyrinth of rocks.. The landings can be difficult and most of the interesting problems are top roped. There are some good crack lines which have been done and also bolt protected hard overhanging face climbs. The flakes are sharp and positive on very steep faces. There is an endless potential for new routes at all grades.

This definitely gets into my list of top places to re-visit!! Word of caution – ensure your guide is a native and someone who has tons of experience! You’ll have to fly to Bangalore first and then take a ride from there.

Check back soon for more awesome stuff on POSTCARDS FROM THE WORLD (Trumpets & drums playing!!)