One fallen tree due to the storm around Ram Nagar, one new wide road we tried KalaDhungi – Nainital – was double-carriage and fabulous but 30-40 kilometers longer than our usual route Ramnagar – Tadikhet – Bhatrojkhan ), and one vehicle breakdown ( the air fliter was so badly clogged that the vehicle wasn’t really picking up speed and the thing that connects the engine to the vehicle broke free making quite a racket ), later, we were in Ranikhet. Instead of the usual 8 hours of driving time, we took 12 hours. Driving duties are divided between my Dad and I and my head was spinning after about 6 hours of driving. But the weather was worth it. We also bought four kilograms of litchis on the way ( @ Rs. 80 per kg ) and they were FRESH FRESH FRESH. In two days they are all gone. ( I’m writing this on the third day of being in Ranikhet – that’s because there’s barely any internet on the phone – Airtel is a pain as usual, the locals rely on BSNL here. Weather forecast had shown rain in Ranikhet but there hasn’t been any yet. If you stand in the Sun, it’s HOT. Evenings and morning and in the shade it’s like air-conditioning. We usually visit Ranikhet in October, when it’s freezing. So this is quite lovely t-shirt weather. Ranikhet is the Kumaon Regimental Center so because of Dad’s service with 13 Kumaon, we’re staying at Russel’s Retreat, which is one of the best accommodations available and Dad, Mom and me are staying in the same room – ear plugs are handy because of their snoring.
