Our bikes are always ready for our Sunday rides, which my friend and I started four years ago. Now, almost two dozen riders join us as and when they can. This Sunday, we planned a short ride to Nere village near Panvel, approximately 22 to 25 km from Navi Mumbai. Our starting point is the NMMC office on Palm Beach Road, a prominent landmark for bikers and cyclists. The weather was pleasant, with the sky lit a mild orange color at 6:30 am. Coincidentally, Sunday, 22nd September, was the One Ride for all Royal Enfield aficionados worldwide. It was a sight to behold, with hundreds of bikers lined up all across the highway till Kalamboli, Panvel, revving up the clear morning with enthusiasm.
We started at 6:30 am and reached Nere by 7:10 am. It was a smooth ride with winding roads, especially once we crossed the New Panvel precinct. The spot at Nere is hidden and not easily located, with many plantations around the road. Once there, bikers can easily take their bikes to the dam and enjoy the picturesque beauty of the flowing river, the mountains of Lonavla, and the lush greenery. Bird watchers can also spot beautiful passerine birds near the river. We halted and enjoyed the view for about an hour before starting our return journey. Fifteen minutes into the return trip, we stopped at a place called Jagdamba, our usual go-to spot for Vada Pav and other snacks, along with some refreshing Masala Chai. The place opens for visitors at 8 am, which is the best time to grab piping-hot snacks. We opted for their bestsellers – Samosa and some Dhokla Sandwich. After a brief halt for 25 minutes, we headed back home. On the way back, I couldn’t help but pen a few lines:
Night rain kissed the tar
Giving it a shiny gloss
The Rubber sealed it
With a stamp of love
I embarked on a journey
Towards the passerine land
Beyond the abode
Lies a serpentine road
Frequently I was greeted
With the rural and the bovine
Till I reached the river
Where a drongo comes to dine
Sun lits the sky in Orange
And the river carries sunshine.
Sunrise from Nere Dam
Piping hot Samosasbeing churned out at Jagdamba, Nere
Dhokla Sandwich
