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Get ready to explore the heart of Karnataka with one of its most beautiful gems. So, fasten your seat belts as we present to you an incredible piece of natural beauty to get away from your desk jobs this weekend - Kunchikal Waterfalls.
Kunchikal Waterfalls, Karnataka is a graceful waterfall nestled in the lush green of the western ghats. This highest-tiered waterfall in India is 455 metres (1,493 feet) high and is named after King George V of England. It is one of the top waterfalls in India, and of the height of 3 three Eiffel Towers stacked on top of each other - how wild is that?
This peak of Kunchikal Waterfall is not all about reach, it has a lot of feel to it. These falls are a part of the Varahi River and rip down into a gorge that is spectacular to look at. And the best part is that it’s hidden far from the madding crowds.
So why is it so famous anyway? Well during the monsoons the Kunchikal Waterfall height and quantity at which the water pours down makes for a spectacle in itself, even when compared to the more famous Jog Falls. A must-visit for all waterfall lovers and anyone who wants to explore some of the offbeat natural destinations.
Kunchikal Waterfalls Location
So, where exactly is this hidden gem? The Kunchikal Waterfalls location is in the Shimoga district of the state of Karnataka near Agumbe. It lies around 25 km ahead of Masthikatte town, from where the real journey to this natural marvel begins.
Reaching there itself is an adventure, but here are some ways to get there:
By air: The nearby air terminal is Mangalore International Airport which lies at a separation of around 145 Km. Once you arrive, you can take a taxi to the falls or board a bus.
By train: Nearby Udupi Railway Station is 67 kilometres from Agumbe, if trains are really your thing. From Udupi, you’ll need to continue your journey by road.
By road: For the lovers of the open road, we have good news. From major cities like Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore you can go by road. The way Bangalore would be either: Bangalore -> Tumkur -> Tarikere -> Bhadravathi ->Shimoga -> Agumbe. The private buses ply this route as well.
From here, taxis or private vehicles can be taken till the Kunchikal Waterfalls, Karnataka. From some points, some even choose to walk on with us - all part of the adventure!
The caveat - Kunchikal Waterfalls is off-limits without special permission. The area is mostly untouched, leaving it wild, and maintained to keep it pristine. So, make sure to get your permission prior.
What to expect
Kunchikal Waterfalls, however, when you have a glance at it, you truly feel amazed. The water flows and falls with so much momentum, it creates an ethereal mist around the place, it looks like it is casting a spell in the air. If you are lucky enough to visit the top waterfalls in India in the sun, sometimes you can see rainbows forming, which is spectacular.
The aura being maintained around the Kunchikal Waterfalls is one of the best-kept secrets and cleanest places to be found in Karnataka. It is refreshing (literally) away from the smoke of the city. You could sit around for hours taking in the peace and even do some wildlife watching if you are careful with your noise.
Tips for Visiting
If you’re planning a trip to Kunchikal Waterfalls, here are some tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable:
- Get your permissions sorted beforehand.
- Visit during the monsoon season (June to September) for the best views.
- Wear comfortable shoes – there might be some walking involved.
- Carry water and snacks; there aren’t many shops around.
- Respect nature – don’t litter or disturb the wildlife.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip, get those permissions, and set off on an adventure to discover Kunchikal Falls – Karnataka’s majestic waterfall that stands tall among the top waterfalls in India.
And remember, keep it simple, keep it fun, and keep exploring.