Affectionately known as the “Cherrapunji of the South”, Agumbe is a tiny hill station located in Karnataka. Situated in the Shimoga district, this hill station comes alive under the torrential rains, showcasing the raw power of nature. It becomes home to wild and thundering cascades, which are breathtaking enough to make you fall in love with the rain and nature. So if you are one of those who wish to brave the relentless downpours in Agumbe and witness the beauty of its waterfalls, here is a list of the most amazing waterfalls near Agumbe that you must visit this monsoon.
Waterfalls Near Agumbe To Visit In Monsoon
1. Barkana Falls
Known as one of the highest waterfalls in India, Barkana Falls plunges from a jaw-dropping height of approximately 850 feet (260 meters). This waterfall sounds like a roaring beast during the peak of the monsoon. It is sourced from the sacred Seetha River, and its name originates from “Barka,” which is taken from the local name for Mouse Deer, which are native to this region.
Distance From Agumbe: approximately 10 km
The Experience: You can witness the sheer scale of this tall waterfall from the dedicated Barkana Viewpoint built here. You can witness the beauty of this waterfall at the point where the dense jungle and clouds meet. You must undertake a four km jungle trek from Mallandur village to reach here. If you wish to trek closer to the waterfall, you will need permission from the forest department.
Monsoon Tip: Be careful while trekking here as the trail becomes incredibly slick. It is also known for its hyper-active leech population, so wear protective footwear and do not forget to carry lime or salt to help you get rid of leeches.
2. Onake Abbi Falls
Onake Abbi Falls is located near Agumbe and cascades down from a total height of approximately 500 feet (150 meters). The waterfall is famous for its two major drops, which culminate in a striking 400-foot vertical plunge. Due to its singular, long, and narrow plunging stream, the waterfall is named after the traditional pestle, which is known as Onake in Kannada. Onake Abbi is an absolute favourite among trekking enthusiasts.
Distance From Agumbe: approximately 8 km
The Experience: The experience of witnessing Onake Abbi falls begins with a thrilling, off-the-beaten-path trek through dense, canopy-covered rainforests. It is a moderately challenging four- to five-km trek through a trail that has many hidden cicadas, frogs, and rushing streams. You can start from the Someshwara village side or the Agumbe check-post. When you finally reach the top of the falls, the view looking straight down the drop can be a bit dizzying.
Monsoon Tip: Be careful as the trails can get a lot slippery during monsoons. Pack a sturdy raincoat and wear good trekking shoes with good grip. Watch out for leeches, frogs, and cicadas.
Also Read: Local Legends Behind India’s Most Famous Waterfalls
3. Jogi Gundi Falls
If Barkana Falls is all about its sheer height and scale, Jogi Gundi is all about mystery. Unlike other waterfalls that plunge over a cliff face, Jogi Gundi originates from a dark cave, cuts through a hill, and falls into a natural pool, and hence is a hidden waterfall. It falls from a height of 20 feet and is named after a holy saint named Jogi who used to meditate here. This spot features unique rock formations carved over centuries by the water flow.
Distance From Agumbe: approximately 4 km
The Experience: You can access this waterfall via a short, about 500-meter trek through the dense Western Ghats rainforest. The water emerges directly from a cave, which then splits into a unique gushing spout. This deep natural pool is perfect for swimmers, though caution is important because the water might get deep during the monsoon.
Monsoon Tip: Agumbe is a rainforest, and hence leeches are found easily here. So make sure you are wearing full-length trekking pants, and even tuck in your socks. You must also carry salt or tobacco to manage leeches.
4. Kudlu Theertha Falls
Kudlu Theertha Falls is famous as the first waterfall on the Seetha River. It plunges into a serene, holy pond from a height of 126 feet (38.40 meters). They are located deep within the dense jungles of the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary near Hebri in Karnataka. It is believed that the sages meditated here thousands of years ago, which made the water sacred for the visitors. Strict eco-friendly regulations are enforced by the forest department; hence, it is free of commercial plastic waste.
Distance From Agumbe: approximately 25 to 30 km
The Experience: It is highly regarded for its pristine, off-the-beaten-path appeal and rich biodiversity. You can reach the spot via an adventurous trek through dense forest trails. The mesmerizing view of water falling against a deep, sweeping rock wall is simply beautiful. It is a popular escape for trekkers and nature lovers.
Essential Monsoon Survival Guide For Agumbe
- Waterfalls like Kudlu Theertha and Barkana Falls are located inside protected reserves. So you must stop by a local forest department office in Agumbe to secure day permits. This will also help you to check if any of the trails are temporarily closed due to flooding.
- Agumbe is a rainforest that has leeches crawling on the floor during monsoons. So wear dedicated knee-high leech socks before tying your boot. You can also apply some coconut oil mixed with tobacco snuff on your legs and even hands to prevent them from being bitten by leeches.
- The rain here is relentless; hence, the standard bags are of no use. Double-pack all your essentials and electronic devices to save them from the rain.
Also Read: Monsoon Waterfalls You Can Reach By Train In India
Summing Up
Here is a list of the most breathtaking waterfalls near Agumbe that you surely must chase this monsoon. From one of the tallest to one of the most mysterious waterfalls, this list has them all! So this monsoon, go ahead and witness the raw beauty of nature in Agumbe.
And if you are visiting Karnataka’s Agumbe or Chikmagalur during monsoon, our website has a guide that you must read.
