In India, Monsoon has its own charms. For a country that suffers in the unbearable heat of the summers, the monsoon brings a huge relief. Apart from bringing the temperature down monsoon also shows the side of India that is very much unknown to most of us. There is greenery everywhere, many dead waterfalls come alive and sighting birds and wildlife around these areas becomes easier.
If one region that experiences the charm of monsoon to the fullest then it undoubtedly should be Karnataka. Surrounded by The Western Ghats, the beauty of the entire state elevates to a different level during the monsoon season. The hills get coloured in the shades of green and one can see clouds hovering on the top of the mountains playing hide and seek with nature. Monsoon is the best time to visit some of the lovely waterfalls of the region. Here is how you can start.
Listed as India’s highest plunge waterfall, Jog Fall is a calm cascade during summers and late winters. It becomes a mighty roaring waterfall creating a spectacular sight. During monsoon, the entire area is foggy and misty that covers the waterfall. The clouds play hide and seek, revealing the waterfall after a frequent time gap. The constant showers make the sight even spectacular.
Shimoga boasts of some beautiful waterfalls in Karnataka. Dabbe Falls is another spectacular waterfall that offers enchanting views to the visitors. Being a part of the Western Ghats, Dabbe Falls is surrounded with lush green surroundings. Unlike most of the waterfall, Dabbe Falls is located inside a forest trail that also makes a perfect hiking spot. Here, one simply cannot get enough of the natural beauty encompassing the area although leeches might trouble you in the way at times.
How to reach – Both Jog Falls and Dabbe Falls are located in Sagar Area of Shimoga district. Direct buses run from Sagar to Jog Falls. One needs to hire an auto rikshaw or a car to reach Dabbe Falls.
Located at a distance of 130 km from Bangalore, this waterfall in Karnataka is situated at a point where River Kaveri meets Rivers Harangi, Hemavathi, Lakshmana Thirtha and Kapila creating a number of waterfalls. During the monsoon, these rivers get flooded and the water directly plunges into the waterfall creating a sight second to none. This mighty waterfall plunges 320 feet into the gorge in an area of 893 meters.
How to Reach – One can take a local bus till Mandya from Bangalore or Mysore and then hire an autorikshaw till the waterfalls. You can also mix this trip with nearby temples of Somnathapur. You can find accommodation in Mysore.
Chunchakatte Falls is located on the trail of River Cauvery. It is said that Goddess Sita took bath in its holy waters. While the waterfall can be experienced in its true sense during the monsoons, the entire area is coloured into the shades of green creating a magical landscape. The waterfall area is known for unique bird species and one can see them during the late monsoon season and during winters.
How to reach – Direct buses are available from KR Puram bus stand of Bangalore and Mysore that go directly till the waterfall.
A popular Hindu pilgrim center, Sringeri is blessed with the charms of The Western Ghats at the best. Surrounded by beautiful green mountains, colorful flowers and a road trip experience that one cannot forget in the life is simply unmatched. Located here, is Hanumangundi Waterfall known for its ancient legend. Falling from a height of 100 meters, the water goes into a hole that no one knows how deep it is. The most amazing part of this waterfall is that it can be reached by climbing down 300 steps and the natural beauty surrounding the area is simply unmatched.
How to reach – One can take a bus till Sringeri from Bangalore or Mangalore and then take a mini bus till the waterfall. Although hiring a taxi will be a better option because returning from there can be a tricky affair.
Coorg region of Karnataka is blessed with encompassing natural beauty. Filled with beautiful valleys, trekking trails and amazing flora and fauna, this region is a delight from travelers, Located a few kilometers away from Madikeri, Abbey Falls is the perfect relaxing point after a tiring trip in Coorg. The entire area feels like a part of a fantasy movie as the waterfall is surrounded by the plantations of spices and coffee. This setting makes visiting Abbey Falls a perfect destination to visit when on a trip to Coorg.
How to Reach – One can hire a cycle from Madikeri or take an auto rikshaw/car till the waterfall. The adventurous ones can also walk upto the waterfall through the well built road.
Located on the foothills of Pushpagiri, Malalli Falls is 25 kilometers away from Somwarpet. The source of the waterfall is Kumaradhara river which falls from a height of 200 feet. Since the waterfall is located at an edge of a hiking trail, it presents the gorgeous views of the Kodagu Valley and mesmerizing Western Ghats.
How to Reach – One can take a bus till Somwarpet from where you can hire a 4x4 or cycle upto the waterfall. There is also a well built hiking trail for the adventurous souls.
Karnataka has over 200 big and small waterfalls. These waterfalls are located at some of the most pristine spots presenting the visitor with the best of nature. Monsoon or not, these waterfalls are a treat to visit all over the year.