4.6 / 5

Shivanasamudra Falls
📍 Shivanasamudra, KarnatakaView map ›

🗓 Best Time To Visit:Monsoons (June to September)

⏰ Open Hours:24 hours

🏞 Things To Do:Photography, Nature Walk, Sightseeing

💰 Entry Fees:Free

👥 Traveller Types:Families, Solo Travellers, Nature Lovers

🌟 Known For:Segregated as two main waterfalls, Gaganachukki and Bharachukki. One of the best waterfalls in India.

📍 Distances:Nearest Railway - Maddur (60 km), Nearest Airport - Bangalore (120 km), Nearest Town - Malavalli (27 km)

📸 Photo Opportunities:Excellent, especially during monsoon season

👟 Trekking:Not available

🍽 Nearby Eateries:Limited options, advisable to carry own food and water

🎒 Travel Tips:Wear comfortable shoes, carry a raincoat during monsoons, and avoid visiting after dark

Have questions about Shivanasamudra Falls?Ask the Tripoto Community ›

Shivanasamudra Falls: A Complete Guide to the Spectacular Waterfalls of Karnataka

Shivanasamudra Falls is one of the most stunning natural wonders of India. Located on the Kaveri river in Karnataka, this waterfall is a cluster of two main falls, Gaganachukki and Barachukki, that create a breathtaking spectacle of water, mist, and rainbows. Whether you are looking for a scenic getaway, a historical exploration, or an adventurous thrill, Shivanasamudra Falls has something for everyone.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive and updated guide to visiting and exploring the falls, covering everything from how to reach, where to stay, when to visit, what to see, and what to do. Read on to discover the beauty and charm of Shivanasamudra Falls.

Gaganachukki and Barachukki Falls: The Twin Waterfalls of Shivanasamudra

The main attraction of Shivanasamudra Falls is the twin waterfalls of Gaganachukki and Barachukki, which are separated by a few kilometers and can be viewed from different vantage points. Gaganachukki is the western branch of the Kaveri river that splits into two segments and plunges down a rocky cliff in a horseshoe shape. Barachukki is the eastern branch of the river that forms a wide cascade over a series of steps. Both falls are about 90 meters high and 300 meters wide, and create a majestic sight, especially during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak.

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To enjoy the best views of Gaganachukki, you can visit the Dargah Viewpoint, which is a platform near a mosque that overlooks the falls from a distance. You can also visit the Hydro-Electric Power Station Viewpoint, which is a closer and more panoramic view of the falls from the opposite side. To enjoy the best views of Barachukki, you can visit the Barachukki Viewpoint, which is a walkway that leads to the edge of the falls and offers a spectacular view of the cascade and the valley. You can also opt for a boating or a coracle ride that takes you to the base of the falls and lets you experience the spray and the sound of the water up close.

Some tips and warnings for visiting the twin waterfalls are:

- The best time to visit the falls is during the monsoon season from July to October, when the water flow is the highest and the falls are the most impressive. However, be prepared for heavy rains, slippery roads, and crowded viewpoints.

- The entry ticket for the falls is Rs. 20 per person and Rs. 30 per vehicle. The parking fee is Rs. 50 per vehicle. The boating or coracle ride fee is Rs. 100 per person.

- Swimming or bathing in the falls is strictly prohibited due to the strong currents and the depth of the water. There have been many accidents and fatalities in the past due to people ignoring this rule.

- Beware of the monkey menace at the viewpoints, as they can snatch your food, belongings, or even attack you. Do not feed or provoke them, and keep your valuables safe.

- Shivanasamudra Hydro-Electric Power Station: The First of its Kind in Asia and India

Another interesting feature of Shivanasamudra Falls is the hydro-electric power station that is located near the Gaganachukki falls. This power station is one of the first in Asia and India, and has a remarkable history and significance. It was established in 1902 by the then Maharaja of Mysore, Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, and the British engineer, Diwan Sheshadri Iyer, to supply electricity to the Kolar Gold Fields, which were about 150 kilometers away. The power station used the water from the falls to generate electricity through turbines and generators, and transmitted it through high-voltage lines. The power station was a marvel of engineering and innovation at that time, and marked the beginning of the industrial revolution in India.

The power station is still operational today, and has a capacity of 42 megawatts. It is managed by the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL), and is open to visitors with prior permission. You can see the original turbines, generators, and transmission lines, and learn more about the history and functioning of the power station. You can also enjoy the view of the Gaganachukki falls from the power station, which is different from the other viewpoints.

Some facts and statistics about the power station are:

The power station was inaugurated by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India, on November 9, 1902.

The power station was the first in Asia and India to use alternating current (AC) for transmission, and the second in the world after Niagara Falls in the USA.

The power station was the first in India to use three-phase power for transmission, and the first in the world to use 40,000 volts for transmission.

The power station was the first in India to use oil-filled cables for transmission, and the first in the world to use steel towers for transmission.

The power station was the first in India to use synchronous motors for power factor correction, and the first in the world to use automatic voltage regulators for voltage control.

Ranganatha Temple: The Ancient and Sacred Shrine of Shivanasamudra

Shivanasamudra Falls is not only a natural wonder, but also a religious destination. Near the falls, there is an ancient and sacred temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, who is a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is also known as Madhya Ranga, which means the middle Ranga, as it is located between the two other famous Ranganatha temples in Srirangapatna and Srirangam. The temple is believed to be one of the oldest in Karnataka, and has a rich history and legend associated with it.

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According to the legend, the temple was built by a king named Tirumala Raya, who was a devotee of Lord Ranganatha. He had a dream in which the Lord instructed him to build a temple for him at Shivanasamudra, where he would reside in the form of a self-manifested idol. The king followed the Lord’s command, and found the idol in the river near the falls. He then constructed a beautiful temple for the idol, and worshipped it with devotion. The temple became a popular pilgrimage site, and attracted many devotees and saints over the years.

The temple has a unique architecture and deity, that reflect its antiquity and sanctity. The temple is built in the Dravidian style, with a gopuram (tower), a mandapa (hall), and a garbhagriha (sanctum). The temple is surrounded by a stone wall, and has a spacious courtyard. The temple also has a pond, a well, and a garden. The deity of the temple is a black stone idol of Lord Ranganatha, who is reclining on a serpent bed, with his consort Goddess Lakshmi at his feet, and Lord Brahma emerging from his navel. The idol is about six feet long, and is adorned with jewels and flowers. The idol is said to have a miraculous power, and grants the wishes of the devotees.

The temple has a vibrant and festive atmosphere, especially during the special occasions and celebrations. The temple conducts daily poojas (worship rituals) for the deity, and offers prasadam (sacred food) to the devotees. The temple also celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as the car festival, the chariot procession, the boat festival, and the flower festival. The most important festival of the temple is the Rathotsava, which is held in the month of March or April, and involves a grand procession of the deity on a decorated chariot around the town. The festival attracts thousands of devotees, who participate in the event with devotion and enthusiasm.

Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary: The Biodiverse and Adventurous Destination near Shivanasamudra

If you are a nature lover and an adventure seeker, you will love the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a biodiverse and adventurous destination near Shivanasamudra Falls. The sanctuary is a protected area that covers an area of about 1,027 square kilometers, and spans across the districts of Mandya, Ramanagara, and Chamarajanagar. The sanctuary was established in 1987, and is named after the Kaveri river, which flows through it. The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and offers a range of activities and attractions for the visitors.

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The sanctuary boasts of a rich and diverse flora, that includes dry deciduous forests, riverine forests, scrub forests, and grasslands. The sanctuary has more than 300 species of plants, some of which are endemic and endangered. Some of the prominent plants in the sanctuary are sandalwood, rosewood, teak, bamboo, and tamarind. The sanctuary also has a number of medicinal plants, such as aloe vera, turmeric, and neem.

The sanctuary is also a haven for wildlife, that includes mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The sanctuary has more than 50 species of mammals, some of which are rare and threatened. Some of the notable mammals in the sanctuary are elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, gaurs, sambar, chital, and otters. The sanctuary also has more than 200 species of birds, some of which are endemic and migratory. Some of the remarkable birds in the sanctuary are the Malabar pied hornbill, the blue-bearded bee-eater, the osprey, the black eagle, and the spot-billed pelican.

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The sanctuary also has more than 50 species of reptiles, some of which are venomous and endangered. Some of the fascinating reptiles in the sanctuary are the mugger crocodile, the king cobra, the python, the monitor lizard, and the chameleon. The sanctuary also has more than 20 species of amphibians, some of which are rare and colorful. Some of the attractive amphibians in the sanctuary are the Malabar gliding frog, the golden frog, the burrowing frog, and the tree frog. The sanctuary also has more than 100 species of fish, some of which are exotic and edible. Some of the notable fish in the sanctuary are the mahseer, the catfish, the carp, and the eel.

Activities and attractions

The sanctuary offers a range of activities and attractions for the visitors, that cater to different interests and preferences. You can enjoy the following activities and attractions in the sanctuary:

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Trekking:

You can explore the trails and paths of the sanctuary, and enjoy the scenic views and the wildlife sightings. You can choose from different levels of difficulty and duration, depending on your fitness and experience. You can also hire a guide or join a group for a better and safer experience. Some of the popular trekking routes in the sanctuary are the Mekedatu trek, the Sangam trek, the Bheemeshwari trek, and the Galibore trek.

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Camping:

You can spend a night or two in the wilderness of the sanctuary, and experience the thrill and the serenity of nature. You can pitch your own tent or book a tented accommodation, and enjoy the facilities and amenities provided by the authorities or the operators. You can also enjoy the bonfire, the barbecue, the star gazing, and the night safari. Some of the best camping sites in the sanctuary are the Bheemeshwari Nature Camp, the Galibore Nature Camp, and the Doddamakali Nature Camp.

Fishing:

You can indulge in the sport of fishing or angling in the Kaveri river, and catch some of the finest and the largest fish in the world. You can use your own equipment or rent it from the authorities or the operators, and follow the rules and regulations of the activity. You can also release the fish back into the water after catching them, as a gesture of conservation and respect. Some of the best fishing spots in the sanctuary are the Bheemeshwari Fishing Camp, the Galibore Fishing Camp, and the Doddamakali Fishing Camp.

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Wildlife Watching:

You can observe and admire the diverse and abundant wildlife of the sanctuary, and learn more about their behavior and ecology. You can use your own binoculars or cameras, or borrow them from the authorities or the operators, and follow the guidelines and etiquette of the activity. You can also join a guided safari or a boat ride, and get a closer and a safer view of the animals and birds. Some of the best wildlife watching locations in the sanctuary are the Mekedatu Watch Tower, the Sangam Watch Tower, the Bheemeshwari Watch Tower, and the Galibore Watch Tower.

How to Reach, Where to Stay, and When to Visit Shivanasamudra Falls

If you are planning to visit Shivanasamudra Falls, you need to know the details and directions for reaching, staying, and visiting the falls. Here are some useful information and advice for you:

How to reach:

Shivanasamudra Falls is located about 130 kilometers from Bangalore, 80 kilometers from Mysore, and 180 kilometers from Coimbatore. You can reach the falls by road, rail, or air, depending on your convenience and budget. The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, from where you can take a taxi or a bus to the falls. The nearest railway station is the Maddur Railway Station, from where you can take a taxi or an auto to the falls. The nearest bus stand is the Malavalli Bus Stand, from where you can take a local bus or a private vehicle to the falls. You can also drive your own car or bike to the falls, and follow the signboards and the maps along the way.

Table

Mode of Transport Distance Time Cost

Taxi from Bangalore 130 km 3 hours Rs. 2500

Bus from Bangalore 130 km 4 hours Rs. 200

Taxi from Mysore 80 km 2 hours Rs. 1500

Bus from Mysore 80 km 3 hours Rs. 100

Taxi from Coimbatore 180 km 4 hours Rs. 3000

Bus from Coimbatore 180 km 5 hours Rs. 300

Where to stay:

Shivanasamudra Falls has a limited number of accommodation options, as it is a remote and rural area. However, you can find some decent and comfortable places to stay near the falls, that suit your taste and budget. You can choose from hotels, resorts, homestays, or camps, and enjoy the facilities and services provided by them. You can also book your accommodation online or offline, and avail the discounts and offers available. Some of the best places to stay near the falls are:

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KSTDC Hotel Mayura Bharachukki: This is a government-run hotel that is located near the Barachukki falls, and offers a splendid view of the cascade and the valley. The hotel has 18 rooms, with AC and non-AC options, and a restaurant that serves vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. The hotel also has a garden, a playground, and a conference hall. The tariff for the hotel ranges from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000 per night, depending on the season and the room type.

Vihangama Home Stay: This is a family-run homestay that is located near the Gaganachukki falls, and offers a cozy and homely atmosphere. The homestay has 5 rooms, with attached bathrooms and balconies, and a dining area that serves home-cooked food. The homestay also has a terrace, a lawn, and a library. The tariff for the homestay is Rs. 1500 per person per night, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The Coco Ranch: This is a luxury resort that is located near the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, and offers a serene and secluded environment. The resort has 10 cottages, with AC and non-AC options, and a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves continental, Indian, and Chinese food. The resort also has a swimming pool, a spa, a gym, and a games room. The tariff for the resort ranges from Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 per night, depending on the season and the cottage type.

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When to visit:

Shivanasamudra Falls can be visited throughout the year, as it has a pleasant and moderate climate. However, the best time to visit the falls is during the monsoon season from July to October, when the water flow is the highest and the falls are the most impressive. However, be prepared for heavy rains, slippery roads, and crowded viewpoints. You can also visit the falls during the winter season from November to February, when the weather is cool and dry, and the falls are still beautiful. However, avoid visiting the falls during the summer season from March to June, when the weather is hot and humid, and the falls are almost dry.

Shivanasamudra Falls is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, history, culture, or adventure. It is a place where you can witness the beauty and the power of water, and experience the thrill and the serenity of nature. It is a place where you can learn more about the history and the significance of the hydro-electric power station, and admire the architecture and the deity of the Ranganatha temple. It is a place where you can explore the flora and fauna of the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, and enjoy the activities and attractions of the sanctuary. It is a place where you can have a memorable and enjoyable time with your family, friends, or yourself.

If you are interested in visiting Shivanasamudra Falls, you can book your trip with Tripoto, the leading online travel platform that offers the best deals and packages for your travel needs. You can also browse through the reviews, photos, and videos of Shivanasamudra Falls on Tripoto, and get inspired by the experiences of other travelers. You can also share your own experience of Shivanasamudra Falls on Tripoto, and inspire others to visit this amazing place.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article, and found it useful and informative. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to leave them below. We would love to hear from you. Thank you for your time and attention, and happy traveling!

Shivanasamudra Falls Reviews

#CoffeeWithTripoto “There is a waterfall in every dream. Cool and crystal clear, it falls gently on the sleeper, cleansing the mind and soothing the soul.” At a distance of 130 km from Bangalore & 81 km from Mysore, Shivanasamudra is a famous waterfall situated in Mandya District of Karnataka State. This is one of the best waterfalls near Bangaloreand also among popular one day trip from Bangalore. These waterfalls are also known as Siva Samudram, literally meaning Shiva's Sea. Shivanasamudra is a segmented waterfall with several parallel stream formed adjacent to each other. The Circuit Bangalore – Kanakapura – Malavalli – Gaganachukki falls – Bharachukki falls – Bangalore Distance – 315 KMs Road condition – Very good Route – Google Map of the circuit The Itinerary 6.30 AM – Leave home and hit NICE road if you near it. Exit at Kanakapura road. Ride along the road with few lakes to give you company. Driving early morning on this road is pleasure as there is no traffic. 8 AM – Have Breakfast at Kanakapura. Vasu hotel is an excellent option. A traditional self-service hotel. This is not a hep hotel but has excellent Idlis, vadas and of course yummy Masala Dosa. 8.45 AM – Depart Kanakapura and ridealong NH 209 (New No is 948). At Malavalli, continue on the bypass road and drive straight to the first of the two falls at Shivanasamudra – Gaganachukki. Follow excellent signage from the highway to the falls. Gaganchukki as the name says is the taller of the two. 10 AM – Arrive at Gaganachukki falls. Park your bike and proceed to the view-point. Enjoy the spectacular view of the falls. Gaganachukki as name suggests cascades from the tall rocks and forms a lovely waterfall. Do not venture to walk down to the bottom of the falls and try to swim in water. It is dangerous as rocks are slippery and there are whirlpools. You may find some young boys venturing into it but we don’t advise. 10.45 AM – Depart from Gaganachukki and proceed towards Bharachukki. It is a fifteen minutes drive and you reach another spectacular falls. On the way stopover and enjoy the panoramic view of the huge lake formed by the barrage against Cauvery river. As the name suggests, this is wider with larger volume of water. Go to the view-point and enjoy the panoramic view of the falls. Spend 30 -45 minutes here. We skipped talkadu as we had to get back to our hostel. Travel Tips a) The best time to visit the Shivanasamudra waterfalls is in monsoon when the water is released from KRS Dam. But the falls and surroundings are lovely in all seasons. b) Do not enter the water at the waterfalls. Many lives have been lost here due to misadventure. The truth is you don't know what is going to happen tomorrow. Life is a crazy ride, and nothing is guaranteed.
Plan phase of the Trip: We set off to Shivanasamudra from Bangalore in KTM. I have chosen this place just to enjoy the monsoon weather and also wanted to experience the bike trip. No precautionary wearables just a jean and shirt for him and a cool dress for me. Had taken jackets just in case if it rains and also from heavy winds. Beginning of the trip Planned for 5.30 am but started around 9.30 :-P. We are lazy bums. Started the bike after having black coffee at home. Petrol check done - filled petrol for 600 bucks Packed 2 bottles of drinking water at home. Worst idea as it added up weight for me to hurt my back more for a pillion rider.Pack very light. Also KTM as a pillion rider, worst choice for the first bike trip. Took NICE Road (Paid a toll fare of Rs.25/-) to reach Kanakapura Road in 1.30 hrs from outer ring road. What to eat for: Through out Kanakapura Road you can see few fancy restaurants. We had thatte idli and coffee at a famous food joint called Sri Renuka Bidadi bisi thatte idli hotel, not sure about exact name but it comes Enroute . We went in without knowing this famous shop and found out that its pretty famous joint. Very quick service and a normal price.
Situated on the banks of the river Kaveri, this gigantic fall is location of one of the first hydro-electric power stations in Asia, which was set up in 1902. A common misconception about these waterfalls are that the left segment is called Gaganachukki and the right segment is called Bharachukki. In reality the Bharachukki falls, are a few kilometers to the south-west of the Gaganachukki falls. This is due to the Kaveri river itself splitting a few kilometers to the south into western and eastern branches. The western branch results in the twin waterfalls of Gaganachukki, whereas the eastern branch results in the Bharachukki falls. The Gaganachukki waterfalls are best viewed from the Shivanasamudra watch tower. Most of the pictures showing the twin waterfalls are taken from that location. There is another approach to the Gaganachukki falls from the Darga Hazrath Mardane Gaib (Imam Ali).( un-advisable Route ) Despite warnings being posted, people climb down the rocks and attempt to view the waterfalls from behind/top, resulting in many fatal accidents. Tip - Very Limited Food available Due to less Shops , carry some Food along , also beware of the Monkeys
Ride away from the city noise along NH 209 to engage your ears in the roaring sound of water embracing the land at the Shivanasamudra Falls. Situated on the banks of Cauvery River, the town has gained popularity among tourists with multiple sights of gushing water to witness. Being a well-known and frequently used road, there is no dearth of pit stops on this route. The island of Shivanasamudra divides Cauvery River into two parts to form Gaganachukki and Bharachukki falls that are collectively referred to as Shivanasamudra Falls. Other nearby attractions like Chunchi Falls, Arkavathy Dam, Ranganatha temple, Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary foster the area. While the baricades that only let you see the falls from distance leave a glitch in your heart, the sight of the gushing water especially in monsoons is worth a compensation. However, the Dargah point at Gaganchukki allows you to savour yourself with water, it is not advised due to the risk involved. But if you really want to quench the heat, you will have the chance to do so while you head towards Bharachukki falls throug hthe village.
To brush away the week's tiredness, we always look for getaways to replenish our minds. Some seek some time with nature, some seek spiritual, some cultural. I am sharing such weekend getaways from Bangalore. For nature seekers, waterfall lovers, Shivanasamudra is the Perfect Getaway. At a distance of 135 km from the city centre, these amazing waterfalls are a comfortable 3 hour ride by car. These are twin waterfalls dropping off from the Kaveri River. They are called Bharachukki and Gaganachukki which are separated by a few kilometeres. The best time to visit this waterfall is during the monsoon from July to September, while the fall is high and wide. Since this is a perennial waterfall, you will almost find water throughout the year. The first ever hydroelectric power station has been set up here. Let the gushing sounds of the waterfalls sooth your soul and calm your mind. There is no entry fees to this place.
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