A Day's Escape to Gaganachukki and Barachukki Falls, with a Visit to CSI Rural Mission Hospital, Mangala

- January 12, 2025

A Day's Escape to Gaganachukki and Barachukki Falls, with a Visit to CSI Rural Mission Hospital, Mangala

Chapter 1: The Break

After a hiatus of nearly 10 months from bike riding, following my new job as a professor at a physiotherapy college in Bangalore, I finally decided to embark on a one-day ride to Gaganachukki and Barachukki, near Mysuru. I also planned to visit the rural CSI Mission Hospital in Mangala village, Chamarajanagar.

Chapter 2: The Early Morning Departure

The alarm rang at 4 AM, and I was already geared up, ready to start from my Bangalore residence. The cool morning air was filled with excitement as I followed Google Maps to navigate my way to the rural CSI Mission Hospital in Mangala, Chamarajanagar. The journey took me through narrow lanes and alleys, remote stretches marked with signs warning of elephant and leopard crossings at Harluru. The ride through these ghat sections was both thrilling and refreshing.

Chapter 3: The Road Challenges

On the national highway 948, my bike's carburetor started giving me trouble. The engine was struggling for pick-up, forcing me to shift gears frequently, especially on inclines and bridges. Despite this minor setback, the joy of being back on the road kept my spirits high.

Chapter 4: The Hospital Visit

Reaching Mangala village, I found the hospital gates locked. Hungry, I decided to have breakfast at a small hotel in front of the hospital. I managed to converse in Kannada with the locals, enjoying idlis and vada with tea. The rustic charm of the village and the warm conversations with its residents made the simple meal memorable.

The hotel owner explained that the hospital was closed due to the national holiday for Gandhi's birth anniversary. Typically, a doctor visits daily at 10:30 AM, though patient turnout is low since most prefer the larger government hospital in Chamarajanagar, just a few kilometers away.

Chapter 5: Exploration

Curious, I walked around the CSI Rural Mission Hospital, noting signs of its regular function like the generator room. Reflecting on the potential of the hospital, I envisioned converting it into a long-term rehabilitation unit for chronic illnesses, leveraging its strategic location and facilities.

Chapter 6: The Parade and Departure

As I prepared to leave, I witnessed a parade of school students celebrating Gandhi's birth anniversary. Their enthusiasm was infectious, reminding me of the national holiday's significance.

Chapter 7: Barachukki Falls

From Mangala, I rode directly to Barachukki. The deviation from the highway led me through quaint villages and alongside water channels, eventually reaching the fenced viewpoint of Barachukki Falls. The scorching heat made a snack of pineapple all the more enjoyable. After a brief visit and a few snapshots, I headed towards the next waterfall.

Chapter 8: Gaganachukki Falls

The ride to Gaganachukki took me along a remote, winding road with no signs of habitation—a route infamous for criminal incidents. Nonetheless, I reached Gaganachukki safely. The falls, similar to Barachukki, were captivating. Watching a few adventurous souls descend and dip in the smaller side waterfall was both thrilling and alarming, given the potential dangers of sudden water surges.

Chapter 9: Hydration and Directions

After savoring a refreshing sugarcane juice, I set off again. Missing a shortcut, I ended up riding along a water channel for what felt like ages. By sheer luck, a kind local biker gave me directions to Kanakpura, saving me from further detours.

Chapter 10: The Heat Battle

The sun was relentless, and dehydration hit hard. I took a much-needed break, gulping down pulpy orange juice and half a liter of water before continuing. At one point, I missed a turn and ended up on the NICE Road, where I had to pay a toll of ₹40. A small price to pay for a smooth ride back.