Holy smoke

HIT THE ROAD

A weekend trip to Puttaparthi is not, admittedly, the sort of prospect that is likely to have you rushing to pack a bag and fill up your gas tank "� not at first, anyway. However, if you are a follower of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, or are just curious about what it is about the man that draws millions of people to him from all over the world, then it can be quite worthwhile.

The route there from Hyderabad is great as well, especially if you're on a bike. In Puttaparthi there isn't much to do apart from the de rigeur visit to Prashanti Nilayam, Sai Baba's ashram . No cameras or electronic items, tobacco, alcohol and non-vegetarian food is permitted inside.

Dress conservatively and generally don't disturb the peace. If you're lucky, Sai Baba will give you a personal darshan...but don't hold your breath.

Puttaparthi is 470 km from Hyderabad via Kurnool and Gooty and the route is excellent all the way. Puttaparthi is a pilgrim town, so you should have no trouble finding a hotel room, no matter what your budget.

Don't know where to go? pablo@business-standard.com