Exploring Waterfalls in the Karnataka, India ( Series 1)

This post dwells on exploring and documenting some of the top waterfalls in Karnataka, India. Most of these waterfalls are located in the dense forested mountain ranges of the Western Ghats

Introduction to Western Ghats

The Western Ghats, the Sahyadri; call it as you desire but one of the most iconic and historical mountain range of Indian Subcontinent, diverse in its biological flora and fauna running along the west coast of India, it is a mind-boggling feat of nature and for nature lovers, it offers a passage back in time to how nature is supposed to be in all her grandeur.

I have always yearned to travel and see the various gems that lie hidden in this massive mountain range which is heavily forested and hides a world within itself. Among the various jewels, one that draws me the most are Waterfalls. This region houses some of the most famous waterfalls in India.

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There are some which are among the top waterfalls of India and then there are some which are hidden, showcasing their beauty to few those who venture through forest glades and past the barriers that nature has erected in order to gaze in wonder at the beauty that lies out there.

This will be multi series sequel on the top waterfalls of Karnataka and would be documenting over a period of many months . So lets begin with the first one of many to come.

Top Waterfalls in Karnataka

Sathodi Falls ( Famous waterfall of India )

Uttara Karnataka holds the key to many a hidden jewel and one among these is SATHODI FALLS. Formed in the Kallaramane Ghats near to the non-descript yet vital town of Yellapur, this 50 feet high fall eventually flows into the backwaters of the Kodasalli Dam formed on the Kali River.

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How to reach Sathodi Falls

One has to reach the town of Yellapur located on National Highway 52 in the state of Karnataka. Once can reach Yellapur either from Bangalore or even from Hubli which are the two big global cities.

After I took the diversion from the National Highway post the town limits was on my own as the metaled road finally gave way to a well-used country road. The sky was laden with monsoons clouds as I followed the path. Post 11 kms came to the backwaters of the Kodasalli dam which lay silent in the morning hours.

After spending some time on the shore, with the sounds of the birds and the jungle for company I decided to move ahead. Another 10 odd kms came to the staging point till where vehicles can be driven. From here one walks on foot for around one Km.

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Sathodi Falls Experience

After parking my vehicle, I collected my photographic gear and followed a well-defined path that guides one towards the fall. The fall itself is hidden and can be heard from a distance. Once it comes into view,  is a glorious sight to see, the waters had still not risen to their full glory and still awaited the monsoon bonanza but event then I loved the place.

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There were hardly any people here. After leaving the path, I entered into the water carefully and waded right up till the base of the fall. Readers to note that this is risky in case the falls are in their full glory as the flow of water will be substantial and there are hidden pools which might not be visible.

Once out there I relaxed and set up my gear for some long exposure clicks. Owing to my early arrival and venturing to the base of the fall had the entire falls to myself. The falls has cut the limestone rocks making interesting formations which offer some great subjects.

This place is famous amongst the locals and hardly any traveler from other region ventures here. This fact makes this waterfall indeed one of the gems and among the top waterfalls of Karnataka.

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FAQ- for visiting Sathodi waterfall in Karnataka

1. As stated one can reach Yellapur from Bengaluru ( 426 kms ) , Goa( 149 km) or Hubli ( 71 kms).

• One can hire an autorickshaw or cab at Yellapur in order to travel the 26 kms to the waterfall locations.

• Nearest stay accommodation is Yellapur for the night in case one is delayed out here.

• There is nothing to eat or drink at the falls , one has to carry some refreshments.

• Mobile networks will not be available as one goes deeper towards the fall area. Readers to note that this is waterfall is not yet commercialized( which is good) .

• My suggestion is to plan a visit to this place in combination with few other locations in this region. Stay tuned to know about more nearby locations to visit.

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Interested in reading a few more articles related to travel and exploring India, well scroll down

1. This is a fist part series on Buddhist Monasteries in India. Read Here.

• Explore the top 5 places to visit in the ancient kingdom of Mamallapuram ( Mahabalipuram) in Tamil Nadu. Read Here.

• Interested in exploring some high altitude alpine lakes in Himalaya. Read Here about Satopanth.