Shimoga is an all-season tourist place in central Karnataka, South India. It lies in the Malenadu region, which is the origin place or Tunga River too. This river streams and water from the Western Ghats make them a hidden place for waterfalls. Visiting here during the rainy season is the best to see the aquatic beauties of the waterfalls in Shimoga.
Shimoga waterfalls are a popular choice for nature lovers, adventure seekers and if you are taking a monsoon tour in India. They are some of the most tourist-friendly places in Karnataka. The villagers(belonging to Shimoga) are the local guides to take you to the hidden waterfalls present in Shimoga.
Top 11 Waterfalls In Shimoga
If you were looking for waterfalls in Shimoga then here are some. These waterfalls are something that you dream of! They offer scenic views and their captivating beauty will take over your senses. Check out these waterfalls in Shimoga and have the time of your life!
- Kunchikal Falls
- Barkana Falls
- Onake Abbi Falls
- Jogigundi Falls
- Jog Waterfalls
- Hidlumane Falls
- Dabbe Falls
- Honnemaradu Falls
- Achakanya Falls
- Koodlu Theertha Falls
- Unchalli Falls
1. Kunchikal Falls
Kunchikal fall in Shimoga is a breathtaking waterfall flowing down from a height of 1492.78-ft on the Western Ghats Mountain. This waterfall water source is from the Varahi River and rainwater. You can see white milky water flowing throughout the monsoon season. The tourism board of Karnataka has built a viewpoint on the opposite side of this waterfall to see its height at the fullest.
You have to hike many stone laden steps to see its cascade, base, and the viewpoint. It is the best place to take this waterfall in a full vertical length to capture in your camera. Swimming in its cascade and taking a bath under this waterfall is prohibited during the monsoon rains. It is not prohibited in-between December and May when the flow of water decreases.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Mangalore, which is 86-miles away from this natural waterfall. Shimoga is accessible via road and rail. Once in Shimoga town, you have to travel via road 56-miles to reach the Kunchikal Falls in Nidagodu village.
Entry fee: The tourists need to get a gate pass during the peak monsoon time from July to September. This is due to low visibility by mountain mists and by the dropping waters.
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm
Tips: Carry water-resistant photo cameras, water bottles, binocular, a pair of hiking shoes and energy snacks.
Must Read: Top 10 Tourist Places Near Jog Falls To Witness The Impeccable Beauty Of Karnataka
2. Barkana Falls
The Barkana waterfalls in Shimoga district are in the midst of the Balehalli Forest area. This is an exotic waterfall, which flows like a milk stream pouring down from the Western Gates Mountain Range. The best time to visit this waterfall is in-between from July to November. The flow of water starts to decline from December to February. You may find a strip of water dropping during the non-rainy season.
This waterfall in Shimoga is worth visiting to see the thick rainforest cover of the Western Ghats in Shimoga. You can find rolling hills, which are above 1,000-ft from this place. You have to hike a few miles to reach this high-drop waterfalls. You will hike through Mother Nature and with pleasant weather. The tourists can swim in its cascade and take a bath under the dropping waterfalls at its base. It is the best place for nature lovers and bird lovers to hike and reach this waterfall. You can breathe fresh air throughout the hike.
How to reach: It is 57-miles away from Shimoga town. You must reach Agumbe village via road and hike a distance of 7-km to reach this waterfall location.
Entry fee: Free for the public and foreign tourists
Timing: 9 am – 5 pm
Tips: Carry extra clothing, towel, photo camera, binocular, drinking water, and food.
Suggested Read: 10 Best Places To Visit Near Bannerghatta To Unravel The Hidden Gems In Karnataka!
3. Onake Abbi Falls
This is one of the hidden waterfalls in Shimoga, which you must trek in the rainforest and discover them by the waterfall sound. This waterfall is one of the gems in aquatic attractions present in Shimoga. You can hear the waterfall sound as its drop height is 400-ft from the Western Ghats Mountain. This waterfall is hidden as the rolling hills permit to view this waterfall from the front view only.
The adventure seekers can trek in the rainforest and reach this waterfall base and the top. The nature lovers can hike and see the aquatic beauty of this waterfall. You must be careful while taking a dip or bath from its base. There are many boulders on the base, which may not be visible when the water flow is high. The energetic people can hike in the rainforest and come near to this waterfall by just hearing its sound. The best season to visit here is from July to December.
How to reach: You must reach Agumbe Village by road from Shimoga, which is 50-miles distance. From this village, you have to hike 3-miles to reach the Onake Abbi Falls.
Entry fee: Free
Timing: 9 am – 5 pm
Tips: Carry hiking sticks, shoes, and photo cameras. Hiring a local guide is the best for all types of tourists.
Suggested Read: 6 Places To Visit Near Bidar For Tourists To Discover Hidden Gems In Karnataka!
4. Jogigundi Falls
This is one of the best Shimoga waterfalls to relax in the waterfall cascade. Locally, it is popular as a thirth falls or a holy waterfall. It is believed that taking a dip in this waterfall cascade will wash away the sins. The people of Hindu belief do this during the monsoon season. Yet, the water flowing from the Western Ghats Malapahaari River near the down streams are with many mineral values. It is known to cure some skin alignments naturally.
It is the finest place to relax near the cascade and sees the tiered drops from a top height on the mountain rocks. It has exotic lush green vegetation surroundings. It is an excellent aquatic place to visit by the honeymooners. You can swim in its cascade, which is with fewer boulders. You can find crystal clear-water during the rainy season too. It is the best place to take photos with this waterfall surrounding.
How to reach: This waterfall is 52-miles away from Shimoga town. You must hire a local taxi to reach this waterfall location.
Entry fee: Free
Timing: 9 am – 5 pm
Tips: Carry food, extra dresses, towel, photo camera, slippery free sandal, or shoes.
Suggested Read: 5 Magnificent Homestays In Belgaum For Your Next Getaway In Karnataka
5. Jog Waterfalls
These plunge waterfalls are the 2nd highest waterfalls in India and the highest waterfalls in Shimoga. This gigantic waterfall near Shimoga is worth visiting to see its single drop from 829-ft. yet, you will be at an altitude of 1600-ft above the mean sea level to see this aquatic natural waterfall. You can get the best views of Sahyadri Mountain Ranges from this place. Its water source is from the Sharavati River. During the rainy season July to November, this waterfall looks mind-blowing.
Swimming and bathing are prohibited during the monsoon season. Yet, the water flow density reduces during the non-rainy season. The best time to visit this waterfall is from July to December. It is advisable to come here in the early morning and see the sun’s rays glittering on the droplets of sprinkled water from this falls.
How to reach: Jog falls are accessible via road from Shimoga. It is at 62-miles away from this town.
Entry fee: Free
Timing: 9 am – 5 pm
Tips: Carry a waterproof photo camera, hiking stick shoes, binocular, food, and water.
Suggested Read: 27 Exciting Things To Do In Chikmagalur On Your Vacay In Karnataka!
6. Hidlumane Falls
Image Credit: Srikanth for Wikimedia Commons
Imagine hearing the sound of water falling on the rocks while you are trekking through a dense forest. This is exactly how it feels when you traverse through the trails that take you to the Hidlumane Falls. This waterfall is nestled in a tranquil setting which is why it is one of the favorite places for nature buffs and adventure enthusiasts.
It is a series fo six to seven waterfalls that cascade down and the view from the top is worth seeing. While going through the trekking trail, you will come across several spots where you can get a clear view of these Shimoga waterfalls. But the best part of Hidlumane waterfalls is the top point from where you get the best view of water falling down ferociously. During the monsoon season, the flow of the water is greater which is the best time to visit this place.
How to reach: The best way to reach this place is by taking a train till Kundapura Railway Station and then hire a jeep to reach the starting point of the trek that is needed for these waterfalls.
Entry fee: NA
Timings: 6 am – 4:30 pm
Tips: If you are planning to trek during the monsoon season then it is recommended to carry salt and lime as you might get to see leeches during the activity.
Suggested Read: Shopping In Shimoga: Top Spots, Things To Buy, And Some Tips For A Perfect Retail Therapy!
7. Dabbe Falls
Image Credit: Manu Gangadhar for Wikimedia Commons
The meaning of the word ‘Dabbe’ translates to ‘steps’ in the local language which totally justifies the name as the water falls through several steps. Situated near Hosagadde Village, these waterfalls are known for its sheer beauty and serenity which has attracted many nature-buffs till now.
As these waterfalls are a part of Sharavati Valley, it is wrapped with foliage and amazing landscapes that add to its beauty. As it offers some of the best views of Shimoga, reaching the top could be challenging for a few people. Therefore, it is recommended to build up your stamina before heading for the trek. Apart from trekking, one can also opt for photography and bird watching.
How to reach: The nearest railway station to Dabbe falls is Talguppa railway station from where you can take a cab to reach the trekking point.
Entry fee: Free
Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
Tips: Carry your camera with you to capture picturesque views and birds.
Suggested Read: 11 Churches In Shimoga That Will Mesmerise You By Their Beauty
8. Honnemaradu Falls
Image Credit: Sarthak Banerjee for Wikimedia Commons
Honnemaradu Falls can be found on your way to the famous Jog Falls. It is a hidden gem that not many people are aware of. So, if you are looking for a quaint place to resort to where you can escape from the hustle-bustle of the city then this is the best place to go to in Shimoga.
Adventurous souls will be spoilt for choices here as this waterfall also gives a chance to indulge in water sports like scuba diving, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, and coracling. As it is located on the waters of Sharavathi river, there is no dearth of area for indulging in this activity. If you have been looking such a place where you can admire nature as well as opt for activities then this is the best place to be in Shimoga.
How to reach: The nearest railway station is in Thalaguppa from where you can take a taxi to reach the waterfalls. Apart from this, you can also take any local transport and reach coffee estate from where the waterfalls are just 10-minutes away by walking.
Entry fee: NA
Timings: NA
Tips: Ask about the activities that you can opt for and make sure that you at least do one of them.
Suggested Read: 20 Scenic Hill Stations Near Shimoga To Visit!
9. Achakanya Falls
Image Credit: Cubicroot for Pixabay
Falling from a height of 6-7 feet, Achakanya Falls is nothing but a piece of heaven on earth that people were not aware of. It is located near the Aralasurali village which is around 10 kilometers away Thirthahalli town. The source of this waterfall is from Sharavathi River. During the monsoon season, the water gushes down with a full force which is the best time to witness its true beauty.
To reach this little hamlet, one will have to make some extra efforts. It is hidden with the help of Western Ghats. Thus, you will have to trek from dense forests to reach these waterfalls in Shimoga and get a proper view. Once you reach there, the beauty that you will witness might take your breath away.
How to reach: The best way is to hire a taxi and reach the destination as there are no direct buses or trains.
Entry fee: NA
Timings: NA
Tips: Keep your eyes open during the trek as you might get to see different species of birds chirping in the forest.
Suggested Read: 4 Best Resorts Near Shimoga That’ll Let You Rejuvenate Amidst Nature’s Lap
10. Koodlu Theertha Falls
Image Credit: Balaji Rakonda for Wikimedia Commons
Overlooking the Agumbe ranges and wrapped with the foliage of the Western Ghats, Koodlu Theertha Falls is another amazing waterfall to explore in Shimoga. As the source of this waterfall is River Sita, it is also popular as Sita Falls.
As it descends from 300 feet in a straight line, Koodlu Theertha Falls plunges right into a small pond where you dip yourself in the cold water or dip your feet. It is believed that several sages used to meditate near this pond which is why the locals believe that the pond water is holy. One can spend some quality time there amidst serenity and calm mind, soul, and body. To reach these waterfalls, one will have to go through a trekking trail that cuts through a thick forest.
How to reach: The Nearest railway station from Hebri is located in Udupi from where one can take a taxi. Or one can take a direct bus from nearby cities to reach Hebri and then take a mini bus to reach the beginning point of this waterfall.
Entry fee: INR 50 per adult
Timings: 9 am – 4 pm
Tips: You can spot another waterfall that is deeper into the forest and it is called Manga or Monkey Theertha as there are several monkeys in the area.
Suggested Read: 10 Beautiful Homestays In Shimoga That Will Make You Extend Your Vacation!
11. Unchalli Falls
Image Credit: Dinesh Valke for Wikimedia Commons
Unchalli Falls got its name from its discoverer J.D. Lushington, a British collector. Right in the year of 1845, Lushington found this beautiful place hidden in Karnataka which is why it was named after his name. The source of this waterfall is from Aghanashini River and the water falls from a height of around 450 feet.
Also known as Keppa Falls or Mini Niagara, these waterfalls have grabbed the attention of several tourists due to its unmatchable beauty. To reach this spot, one has to trek for 5 kilometers in the dense forests, through slopes, and tracks. This is also an amazing spot to spot rare avian species.
How to reach: The nearest railway station is located in Sirsi town from where you will have to find a taxi to reach the waterfalls.
Entry fee: Free
Timings: NA
Tips: Wear good sports shoes for an easy trek through the forests.
Further Read: 11 Things To Do In Shimoga That Will Make You Fall In Love With The City!
You can find mists like a mystery around these waterfalls in Shimoga. They offer stunning views and some of the best sceneries. If you wish to be close to nature and find solitude and yourself then take a trip to Karnataka and witness beauty and views like no other! We promise you won’t regret it one bit!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls In Shimoga
Do the waterfalls in Shimoga get dry during the summer season?
Yes, the water volume and flow will get low during the summer season. It is from March to June. Sometimes, the waterfalls will be dry in May and June in Shimoga.
What is the best time to visit the waterfalls in Shimoga?
The waterfalls in Shimoga are seen with engulfing white waters during the monsoon season. The best time to visit here is from July to November.
Is it safe for a solo woman tourist to explore the Shimoga waterfalls?
Yes, they must come in an organized or guided tour to explore the waterfalls of Shimoga. This is because most of the waterfalls are present in the forests and on the slopes of the Western Ghats Mountain Ranges.
What are the recreational activities the tourists can indulge in near these waterfalls?
The recreational activities the tourists can do near the waterfalls present in Shimoga are bird watching, canoeing, coracling, day camping, forest hiking, Kayaking, photography, swimming in the waterfall cascades, and taking a shower bath under the waterfalls.
Is it possible to take a bath under the waterfalls in Shimoga?
Yes, you can bathe under these waterfalls, and swim in the cascades in the permitted places and have a beautiful experience.
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