A memorable annual picnic by Ramakshatriya Sangha

It was a community picnic of Ramakshatriya Sangha. The day started early and everyone assembled at 8 am at two locations i.e. Sharjah and Dubai which were chosen as the most convenient starting point of the onwards journey.

It was a complete day outing as planned to cover three places. Al Ain is located about 130 km from Dubai and our place of interest, Al Ain Zoo, Jebel Hafeet and Green Mubazzarah.

People were enthusiastic to reach the location of pick up. With some initial discussions and group formations, we finally managed to leave at 8:30 am. After an hour of driving we halted for the snacks break. The delicious breakfast was enjoyed by all. Finally we reached Al Ain Zoo at 11.45am and had photo session outside the Zoo. Spot games were arranged for the members. Members were busy photo shooting. After our venturing and exploration was complete we descended for Lunch arranged at a hotel. The Lunch was a Buffet type; the food was served on Banana leaf. It was difficult to accommodate all the 60 people together. Once we were done with eating, we proceeded towards second destination of picnic, Jebel Hafeet, which is 1180 metres, another 35 km ahead on a hill top the UAE’s highest mountain.

The views from the top are stunning. The landscape of road and the turns it formed to reach the hilltop is quite amazing. It is a single naturally created mountain with flat areas around it. Members explored all the different directions from the top capturing many photos.

Then we left Jebel Hafeet at 3:30pm towards Green Mubazzarah. When we reached, the time was set for a hot cup of tea, which was prepared at the spot. Snacks were served with the tea. We played game of Tambola aka Housie and everyone were really having a great time. I would say that this is one game which can easily be played by a group of any size and will keep them engrossed. All of us had a good time and we played 2 rounds. Some members ventured for a hot spring. New members were introduced. Spot prizes were distributed to the winners. We started heading back at 6.45pm and on the way all were served with Dinner. We reached back home by 11.30 pm. It was a picnic to remember for everyone.

Thanks to Suresh Koteyar, Manjunath Kasargod, Sugandhraj Bekal, G. K. Rao, Rajesh Bekal, Shashi Uppoor, Taresh Rao, Praveen Uppoor and all other executive members for their kind support in organizing a smooth picnic.