The waterfalls are created by river Cauvery that runs down a 75 metre gorge before it divides into two branches that flow around the island of Shivanasamudra. The two branches flow through deep ravines on either side of the island before plunging in two different places a few kilometers apart to form the Barachukki and Gaganachukki waterfalls.
The waterfalls are located at a distance of about 139 km from Bangalore and about 60 km from Mysore.
The eastern branch of the waterfall is known as Barachukki while the western branch is known as Gaganachukki. Barachukki and Gaganachukki waterfalls are together known as the Shivanasamudra Falls.
Gaganachukki falls
The Gaganachukki falls is a brilliant sight especially after the rains when the River Kaveri is full.
This is the best balcony view you can get. Try to avoid weekends, you can enjoy the falls to its fullest by relaxing in the bench placed at the view point
The Gaganachukki Falls are shaped like a huge horsetail. It is a steep waterfall that rushes down with great velocity and provides incredible views. The twin waterfalls have an average height of 98 meters .
Right end tail of Gaganachukki falls
The Gaganachukki waterfalls are best viewed from the view point/watch tower at Shivanasamudra.
Barachukki falls
The Barachukki Falls cascades down from 250 feet with a U section resembling the Niagara Falls. The segmented Barachukki Falls are a graceful one and the more popular and wider one among the two falls. (I liked gaganachukki more :) )
The waterfall has a height of about 69 meters. There is a narrow flight of about 200 concrete steps that lead down to the waterfall. The way down to the waterfall is relatively safe as it fenced with railings and there are benches to sit on and relax for a while when you get tired.
The waterfall is a vibrant sight to watch during the monsoon season when the volume of water gushing down the rocks increases substantially. The waterfall can be enjoyed from close quarters as there are shallow areas near the place where the water plunges.
Visitors can get into the shallow water. However, one should be very careful as there are no life guards available near the waterfall and accidents could happen.
Dharga View Point
It presents the upstream end of the Gaganachukki waterfall and is closer to the Barachukki Falls. The view of the upstream end is particularly fascinating during the monsoons when the volume of water swells by several degrees.
This is a less known and bit messed up (no that clean), but its a must visit view point.
How to reach :
Before reaching Barachukki gate, there is a board towards left.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The timings for Barachukki falls are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Gaganachukki doesn't have timing restrictions. However, it is advised to visit the falls during the daytime. The best time to visit Shivanasamudra falls is during monsoon or post monsoon for the best weather and intensity of the waterfall.
Please check out more tips, trip plan and stay details here
