Have you ever wondered what it would be like to witness a majestic waterfall cascading down from a height of 70 feet, surrounded by lush greenery and aromatic coffee plantations? If yes, then you should definitely visit Abbey Falls, one of the most spectacular and popular tourist attractions in Coorg, Karnataka.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Abbey Falls, such as its location, timings, entry fee, features, history, and tips for visiting. We will also share some of the best places to visit and things to do near Abbey Falls, so that you can make the most of your trip to Coorg. So, let’s get started!
Abbey Falls: Location and How to Reach
Abbey Falls is located about 8 km away from Madikeri, the headquarters of Coorg district. It is situated in a private coffee estate that belongs to the Kodava community, the native inhabitants of Coorg. The waterfall is also known as Abbi Falls, which means “waterfall” in the Kodava language.
To reach Abbey Falls from Madikeri, you can take a bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw. The journey takes about 20 minutes and costs around Rs. 100-200 per person. Alternatively, you can also drive your own vehicle or rent a bike or car from Madikeri. There is a parking lot near the entrance of the estate, where you can park your vehicle for a nominal fee.
From the parking lot, you have to walk for about 10 minutes on a paved road that leads to the waterfall. The road is lined with coffee bushes, pepper vines, cardamom plants, and other spices that fill the air with a pleasant aroma. You will also see some signboards that display information about the flora and fauna of the region.
As you approach the waterfall, you will hear the roaring sound of water gushing down from a height of 70 feet into a pool below. You will also see a hanging bridge that spans across the pool and offers a stunning view of the waterfall and its surroundings.
Abbey Falls: Timings and Entry Fee
Abbey Falls is open for visitors from 9 am to 5 pm on all days of the week. However, it is advisable to visit the falls in the morning or evening, as it can get crowded during peak hours.
The entry fee for Abbey Falls is Rs. 15 per person for adults and Rs. 10 per person for children. You have to buy a ticket at the entrance of the estate before proceeding to the waterfall. The ticket also includes access to a small museum that displays some historical artifacts and photographs related to Coorg and its culture.
Abbey Falls: Features and History
Abbey Falls is one of the most beautiful and scenic waterfalls in Coorg. It is formed by a tributary of the Cauvery river that originates from Thadiyandamol, the highest peak in Coorg. The waterfall has a height of 70 feet and a width of 40 feet. It flows with great force and creates a misty spray that cools down the air around it.
The history of Abbey Falls dates back to the British era, when it was known as Jessy Falls, named after the daughter of Madikeri’s first British captain, Chaplain. Later, it was renamed as Abbey Falls by the locals, who derived its name from Abbi, which means “waterfall” in Kodava language.
According to a legend, there was once a secret tunnel that connected Abbey Falls with Madikeri Fort. The tunnel was used by the Kodava kings and warriors to escape from their enemies during wars. However, the tunnel was later destroyed by an earthquake and its existence remains a mystery.
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Tips for Visiting Abbey Falls
Here are some tips for visiting Abbey Falls and making your experience memorable and enjoyable:
1. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you have to walk for about 10 minutes on a paved road to reach the waterfall.
2. Carry a water bottle and some snacks, as there are no shops or restaurants near the waterfall.
3. Avoid bathing or swimming in the pool below the waterfall, as it is prohibited and dangerous.
4. Do not litter or damage the environment, as Abbey Falls is a part of a private estate and a natural heritage.
5. Respect the local culture and traditions, as Abbey Falls is a sacred place for the Kodava community.
6. Take some amazing photos and videos of the waterfall and its surroundings, but do not use flash or drones, as they may disturb the wildlife.
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Places to Visit Near Abbey Falls
If you are looking for more places to visit near Abbey Falls, you can check out these options:
Madikeri Fort:
This is a historical fort that was built by the Kodava king Muddu Raja in the 17th century. It was later renovated by Tipu Sultan and the British. The fort houses a palace, a museum, a church, a temple, and a prison. It also offers a panoramic view of Madikeri town and its surroundings. You can visit Madikeri Fort from 10 am to 5:30 pm on all days except Monday. The entry is free of cost.
Omkareshwar Temple:
This is an ancient temple that was built by King Lingarajendra II in 1820. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a unique blend of Islamic and Gothic architecture. The temple has a large water tank in front of it that is home to many fish. You can visit Omkareshwar Temple from 6:30 am to 12 pm and from 5 pm to 8 pm on all days of the week. The entry is free of cost.
Raja’s Seat:
This is a scenic spot that was once the favorite place of the Kodava kings to enjoy the sunset and the view of the valley. It has a beautiful garden with flowers, fountains, and statues. It also has a toy train that runs around the garden. You can visit Raja’s Seat from 5:30 am to 8 pm on all days of the week. The entry fee is Rs. 5 per person for adults and Rs. 3 per person for children.
Abbey Falls is one of the most amazing and attractive places to visit in Coorg. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs. It offers a splendid view of a waterfall that plunges down from a height of 70 feet into a pool below, surrounded by lush greenery and aromatic coffee plantations.
If you are planning to visit Abbey Falls, make sure you follow our tips and suggestions to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. You can also explore some of the other places to visit near Abbey Falls, such as Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwar Temple, Raja’s Seat, etc., to experience the rich culture and heritage of Coorg.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip now and get ready to witness the beauty and charm of Abbey Falls in Coorg!
