Absolutely Sabyasachi

I am still feeling horrible for leaving my photo gear behind . . . .

Would be wonderful for a group (not more than 8 to 9) of us to make it there. The place is 30 KMS from Sathyamangalam (which is about 60KMS from Coimbatore).

We can take a train out to Coimbatore or Mysore and pick up a cab from there to Thimbam (or simply drive out from Chennai to Coimbatore - roads are superb). The rides through the jungle require an SUV or a 4 X 4 which we can hire with the forest department or the locals.

Accomodation is basic and nothing fancy. We can either rough it out at the forest guest houses (very very basic) or on a couple of tents. A better option would be at Bhama resorts (actually a converted farm home with basic acco and good food) , owned by a wildlife enthusiast Mr.Krishnakumar, who can organize guided treks / drives through the jungle.

Incidentally, BR Hills (Jungle Lodges) is another 60 KMS away. So are Bandipur and Masinagudi . . . .

Right now, this route is crowded (this is an important link between TN & Karnataka) due to the holiday season and due to the Eco tourism efforts of the forest departments. Quite a few resorts / camping sites i am told are coming up on the Karnataka side. The locals feel that sighting is at its best during June - just before the rains . . . .

regards
Rajan