Amid the lush greenery of Mukkodlu village, Coorg lies an exquisite Kote Abbe Falls hidden from the public eye, and only a few know about it. The clear water flows through a patch of trees and rocks, making a perfect, serene spot for those wanting to be close to nature. The best thing about it is that it is never crowded, nor has it been commercialized yet. It is a seasonal waterfall at its full capacity in the monsoon season. Being a non-perennial stream, Abbey thrives the most during rain, like many rivers in southern India.
Kote Abbe Falls Location
Kote Abbe Falls lies at the beginning of the Kaveri River. The forest has naturally cleared up and is maintained properly by the locales and the government. It is home to many birds, insects, flora and fauna, and especially the magnificent waterfall in the middle of it all. The waterfall is situated about 8 km from Mandalpatti. It lies at the start of the Kaveri River, surrounded by coffee and spice plantations. There is also a hanging bridge by the falls. It is also in line with the Western Ghats in Karnataka and about 122 km from Mysore. In earlier times, due to the expanse of greenery and forest area, the waterfall was secluded for a long time, and no one really knew about it. As the years passed and the forest cleared up, the waterfall became quite private, but the locals and tourists now visit it frequently. Yet it is never crowded.
Must Read: Best Places To Visit In Coorg
Kote Abbe Falls Geography
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The waterfall is at full capacity during monsoon season. Earlier the falls were named after a British official’s wife – ‘Jessi Falls’ and it was much more secluded than it is now. Later on, it was discovered by Mr Neravanda B. Nanaiah, who bought the place and used the land to cultivate coffee and spices. Coorg’s elevation ranges from 914.4 m to 1715.11 m. Coorg and many places in Southern India are very well known for their Coffee, Cardamom and Pepper plantations, and you can also see them near the Kote Abbe Waterfall. It smells divine as you explore and travel by these places.
Kote Abbe Falls Timings and Activities
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You can visit the falls anytime between 6 am to 6 pm.
The waterfall provides a cooling atmosphere to sit and revel in the breeze and rejuvenate. Whether it is a stroll in nature or a picnic with family and friends, Kote Abbe Falls is the place to be. There’s a lot of greenery, flora and fauna all around. You can also explore the coffee and spice plantations nearby. You can play near the water and a lot of people like to bathe in the water as well but it is advisable not to. Along with that, there are a lot of tourist spots near the waterfall as well.
Suggested Read: Top Waterfalls In Karnataka
Kote Abbe Falls Travel Routes
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By Road – Bus services are not available in the vicinity. The ride towards the destination is a bit bumpy, so one has to hire a 4wd Jeep or cab from Mandalpatti or even a bike. It takes 20-25 minutes to reach the falls.
By Air – Neither Coorg nor Kodagu District has an airport. The nearest airport is the Mangalore International Airport which lies about 137 km away from Kodagu. First, reach Mangalore by flight and then travel by road towards the town.
By train – Kodagu doesn’t have a railway station, but the nearest ones are Mysore Hassan and Mangalore (Karnataka) and Thalassery and Kannur (Kerala).
Places To Visit Near Kote Abbe Falls
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Kukke Shri Subrahmanya Swami Temple
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An exquisite Hindu temple situated in Subramaniya village in the Dakshin Kannada district. Subramanya is the name given to Lord Kartikeya who is worshipped here and is the god of serpents. According to legend, Vasuki, the divine serpent found refuge under the lord during danger from Garuda. Pilgrims cross the Kumaradhara River to take a holy dip, which is a purifying ritual, before entering the temple for darshan.
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Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple
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Located in Bylakuppe in Karnataka, the Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple is home to about 16000 refugees and 600 monks. You can find the statues of Lord Buddha with statues of Lord Amitayus and Lord Padmasambhava on both sides. Visitors come here to meditate, pray and give their offerings to the lord. You can also rotate the mani prayer drums that are believed to be akin to chanting “Om Mani Padme Hum”, a Buddhist prayer.
Talakaveri Temple
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The Talakaveri Temple is a beautiful tourist destination that is home to an idol of Goddess Kaveriamma, next to a tank and it is considered holy and fulfilling to bathe in it. On the day of Cauvery Changrandi, several pilgrims and locals come here to witness the rising of the spring’s fountainhead. If you wish to catch an amazing green view of the forest, you can climb 400 steps upwards to the hilltop.
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Raja’s Seat
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Situated in the middle of a beautiful garden called Gandhi Mantap, it is made of brick and mortar and has four pillars surrounded by arches. Kings and the Queens of Kodagu, the rulers of Karnataka for over 200 years from 1600 to 1834 CE, made significant use of this place. It is a great place to stroll and sit quietly around various flowers and trees. There’s a special toy train for children to enjoy as well.
Further Read: A Detailed Guide of Abbe Falls
Kote Abbe Falls sums up to be the perfect nature getaway from your hectic schedule of everyday life. Nature calls on you to visit this Don’t forget to add this beautiful destination to your next trip to Madikeri and explore several interesting spots in Coorg, Karnataka.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kote Abbe Falls
Is there any entry fee to Kote Abbe Falls?
There is no entry fee here, and it is accessible to everyone. The parking fee is around 20-40 rupees.
What restrictions are there?
Bathing should be avoided. The rock bed is slippery and can result in injuries. Avoid bathing, especially during monsoons. Throwing garbage and food packets in the water is strictly prohibited. Do not abuse the water in any form and maintain decorum in the area.
What is the climate like in Coorg?
The district of Kodagu mostly has a pleasant climate, with the average temperature being 15˚C throughout the year. The temperatures are usually between 19 - 25°C. Monsoons are harsh, and the waterfall is full of fog and rainfall.
What essentials are needed?
There are parking and washroom facilities. The individual must carry Water and food but not litter the place. Wear good, closed shoes and clothes that cover the body if you’re not going near the water since it is a forest area and there are a lot of leeches and insects.
Is the area dangerous?
There is no actual danger as it is a tourist spot. Look for leeches and other insects since it is a woody area with rugged terrain and several trees. Bathing in the water should only be done with precautions and should be avoided during monsoons as the rock bed is very slippery at that time.
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