As the monsoon clouds gathered over the horizon, the three began their journey back to the sand dunes of Rajasthan.
For eight long months, picnickers visiting the Pallikkare beach park near the picturesque Bekal Fort facing the Arabian Sea enjoyed the presence of three camels. Children took camel rides, a rare treat in this part of country.
The camels, along with their caretakers, left the district on Wednesday. Walking up to Mangalore by road, the animals would be transported by truck to Rajasthan.
When the monsoon gains strength in south India, the flow of picnickers to the beach will drop substantially. The caretakers will return with the animals in October, when the rain subsides.
The camels, which have been attracting visitors to the park for over six years, usually stay here between October and June.