51 cadets from class IX and X boarded the school bus on 13th December to reach Bettadapura, Periyapatna Taluk, Mysuru Dist, 20 Km away from the school. The gigantic view of the hill was attracting us from the foothills. We had a question in our minds that can we climb up the hill and come down before the sunset? On our way up to the hill, a local boy used his taunting words saying ‘you need four hours to climb up!’ It was already 3.45 pm. We had two hours on hand and we had to reach school by six o’ clock to attend our study hours. We were firm in our decision. We had decided that ‘we will do it’. The rocky hill was with 3105 stairs to climb and we had to prove that we are the cadets of Sainik School Kodagu and we do possess the fitness and as the name of our hobby club itself indicates ‘ Kalpower’. Our muscles did co- operate with us and by 4.45 pm we were at the top. We saw the archaeological site over there at the top and took the deep breath. When we saw ourselves wet in sweat, smiling at each other, The message conveyed- ‘We did it’.
After reading the information board displayed on the site, we came to know that the hills are interconnecting geographical area of Vijayanagar Empire, Hoysalas of Dwarasamudra and Tipu Sultan of Mysore, all of them were prominent rulers of ancient, medieval and modern rulers of India. We also saw the natural vegetation, flora and got first-hand experience of local bushes and shrubs.
We climbed down the hills, reached the base at 5.45 pm and reached back our alma matter at 6.15 PM. Thanks to the school authorities for extending all the help to complete the trek.
Report By: Cadet Vinay B M, Roll No 536, Class X A
