If you are looking for a refreshing and picturesque destination near Mysore, Karnataka, India, you should definitely check out the Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls. These are two stunning man-made waterfalls that are created by the construction of the KRS dam across the Cauvery river. The waterfalls are located about 18 km from Mysore and 3 km from Srirangapatna, making them easily accessible by road. They are also surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views, making them ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
The Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are not very high or wide, but they are very charming and attractive. They offer a variety of activities and things to do for visitors of all ages and interests. You can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, photography, and sightseeing at the waterfalls. You can also explore the history and culture of the nearby places, such as Srirangapatna, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Brindavan Gardens, and Mysore Palace. You can also relax and unwind at the waterfalls, listening to the soothing sound of the water and feeling the cool breeze.
The Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are open throughout the year, but the best time to visit them is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and the water level is optimal. The waterfalls are also very popular among locals and tourists, especially on weekends and holidays, so you may want to plan your visit accordingly. The waterfalls are open from 9 am to 6 pm, and the entry fee is nominal.
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls, such as their history, origin, landscape, activities, timings, images, reviews, and how to reach them. You will also discover some nearby places to visit, such as Srirangapatna, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Brindavan Gardens, and Mysore Palace. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a fun-filled adventure, or a cultural exploration, Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls have something for everyone.
History and Origin of the Waterfalls
The Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are not natural waterfalls, but they are created by the construction of the KRS dam across the Cauvery river in 1932. The KRS dam, also known as the Krishna Raja Sagara dam, is one of the largest and oldest dams in India. It was built by the famous engineer and statesman, Sir M. Visvesvaraya, under the patronage of the then Maharaja of Mysore, Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. The dam is named after the Maharaja, and it serves as a major source of irrigation and hydroelectric power for the region.
The KRS dam has a series of sluice gates that control the flow of water from the reservoir to the river. When the gates are opened, the water gushes out with great force and creates the Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls. The Balmuri Waterfall is located on the eastern side of the dam, and the Edmuri Waterfall is located on the western side. The names of the waterfalls are derived from the Kannada words balu (sand) and muri (twist), and eddu (rise) and muri (twist), respectively. The names refer to the shape and direction of the waterfalls, as the water twists and turns over the sand and rocks.
The Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls have a lot of historical and cultural significance, as they are located near the ancient town of Srirangapatna, which was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore under the rule of Tipu Sultan and his father, Hyder Ali. Srirangapatna is also home to the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, which is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for the Vaishnavites, or the followers of Lord Vishnu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu, and it is one of the Pancharanga Kshetrams, or the five sacred abodes of Lord Ranganatha along the Cauvery river.
The Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are also associated with some legends and myths, such as the story of Markandeya, a sage who was blessed with immortality by Lord Shiva. According to the legend, Markandeya was once meditating at the Balmuri Waterfall, when he was disturbed by a group of boys who were playing in the water. He cursed them to become stones, and they turned into the rocks that are seen at the waterfall. Another legend says that the Balmuri Waterfall is the place where Lakshmana, the brother of Lord Rama, shot an arrow at the Cauvery river to create a passage for their army during the Ramayana. The arrow created a twist in the river, and hence the name Balmuri.
Activities and Things to Do at the Waterfalls
The Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are not only scenic and serene, but they also offer a lot of activities and things to do for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the most popular and enjoyable activities that you can do at the waterfalls:
Swimming:
Swimming is one of the most fun and refreshing activities that you can do at the waterfalls. The water is clean and cool, and the depth is moderate. You can swim in the pools formed by the waterfalls, or in the river itself. However, you should be careful of the currents and the rocks, and always wear a life jacket or a float. You should also avoid swimming during the monsoon season, when the water level is high and the flow is strong.
Boating:
Boating is another exciting and relaxing activity that you can do at the waterfalls. You can rent a boat or a coracle, which is a round-shaped basket boat, and enjoy the views of the waterfalls and the surroundings. You can also spot some birds and fish in the water, and feel the spray of the water on your face. Boating is available throughout the year, except during the monsoon season, when the water level is high and the flow is strong.
Fishing:
Fishing is a great activity for those who love nature and adventure. You can catch some fish in the river, such as catfish, rohu, and mrigal, and cook them on the spot. You can also enjoy the tranquility and the beauty of the waterfalls and the surroundings. Fishing is allowed throughout the year, except during the monsoon season, when the water level is high and the flow is strong. You will need to bring your own fishing equipment and bait, and obtain a fishing license from the authorities.
Photography:
Photography is a must-do activity for those who love capturing the moments and the memories. The waterfalls and the surroundings are very photogenic and picturesque, and they offer a lot of opportunities for clicking some amazing shots. You can capture the waterfalls from different angles and perspectives, and also the flora and fauna of the area. You can also take some selfies and group photos with the waterfalls as the backdrop. Photography is allowed throughout the year, and you can use any camera or device of your choice.
Sightseeing:
Sightseeing is a wonderful activity for those who love exploring the history and culture of the place. The waterfalls are located near some of the most important and interesting places in the region, such as Srirangapatna, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Brindavan Gardens, and Mysore Palace. You can visit these places and learn more about their significance and stories. You can also admire the architecture and the art of these places, and also the natural beauty and the wildlife of the area. Sightseeing is possible throughout the year, and you can use any mode of transport of your choice.
Best Time to Visit the Waterfalls
The Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are open throughout the year, but the best time to visit them is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and the water level is optimal. During this time, the temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C, and the rainfall is low. The waterfalls are also less crowded and more peaceful during this time, as compared to the summer and monsoon seasons.
The summer season, from April to June, is not a very good time to visit the waterfalls, as the weather is hot and humid, and the temperature can reach up to 40°C. The water level is also low, and the waterfalls may not be very impressive or enjoyable. The waterfalls are also very crowded and noisy during this time, as many locals and tourists flock to the waterfalls to escape the heat.
The monsoon season, from July to September, is also not a very good time to visit the waterfalls, as the weather is wet and unpredictable, and the rainfall is high. The water level is also high, and the waterfalls may be very dangerous or inaccessible. The waterfalls are also very crowded and noisy during this time, as many locals and tourists flock to the waterfalls to witness the spectacle of the waterfalls.
The best time to visit the waterfalls also depends on the activities and things that you want to do at the waterfalls. For example, if you want to enjoy swimming, boating, or fishing, you should visit the waterfalls when the water level is moderate and the flow is gentle. If you want to enjoy photography or sightseeing, you should visit the waterfalls when the sky is clear and the light is good. If you want to enjoy the natural beauty and the tranquility of the waterfalls, you should visit the waterfalls when they are less crowded and more peaceful.
You should also be careful of the safety and precautions to take while visiting the waterfalls, especially during the monsoon season, when the water level is high and the flow is strong. You should always wear a life jacket or a float while swimming or boating, and avoid going near the edge of the waterfalls. You should also follow the instructions and warnings of the authorities and the locals, and avoid visiting the waterfalls during heavy rains or storms. You should also carry some essentials, such as water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, umbrella, and first-aid kit, while visiting the waterfalls.
How to Reach the Waterfalls
The Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are located about 18 km from Mysore and 3 km from Srirangapatna, making them easily accessible by road. You can reach the waterfalls from different nearby cities, such as Mysore, Bangalore, and Coimbatore, by different modes of transport, such as car, bus, train, and flight. Here are some of the options and details for each mode of transport and city:
Car:
Car is the most convenient and flexible way to reach the waterfalls, as you can drive at your own pace and stop at any place you want. You can either use your own car or rent a car from any of the car rental services available in the cities. The road condition is good and the route is scenic, passing through some of the historical and cultural places, such as Srirangapatna, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, and Brindavan Gardens. The distance and the approximate driving time from each city are as follows:
Mysore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 18 km, 30 minutes
Bangalore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 140 km, 3 hours
Coimbatore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 220 km, 4 hours
Bus:
Bus is another economical and comfortable way to reach the waterfalls, as you can enjoy the views and the company of other travelers. You can either use the state-run buses or the private buses that operate from the cities. The buses are frequent and reliable, and they stop at the main bus stations near the waterfalls. The distance and the approximate bus fare from each city are as follows:
Mysore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 18 km, Rs. 20
Bangalore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 140 km, Rs. 200
Coimbatore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 220 km, Rs. 300
Train:
Train is another fast and convenient way to reach the waterfalls, as you can avoid the traffic and the hassle of driving. You can either use the express trains or the passenger trains that run from the cities. The trains are regular and punctual, and they stop at the nearest railway station to the waterfalls, which is Srirangapatna Railway Station. The distance and the approximate train fare from each city are as follows:
Mysore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 15 km, Rs. 10
Bangalore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 125 km, Rs. 100
Coimbatore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 205 km, Rs. 150
Flight:
Flight is the fastest and the most expensive way to reach the waterfalls, as you can save a lot of time and energy. You can either use the domestic flights or the international flights that fly from the cities. The flights are frequent and comfortable, and they land at the nearest airport to the waterfalls, which is Mysore Airport. The distance and the approximate flight fare from each city are as follows:
Mysore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 25 km, Rs. 500
Bangalore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 170 km, Rs. 2000
Coimbatore to Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls: 250 km, Rs. 3000
Nearby Places to Visit
The Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are not only scenic and serene, but they are also located near some of the most important and interesting places in the region, such as Srirangapatna, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Brindavan Gardens, and Mysore Palace. You can visit these places and learn more about their significance and stories. You can also admire the architecture and the art of these places, and also the natural beauty and the wildlife of the area. Here are some of the nearby places to visit from the waterfalls:
Srirangapatna:
Srirangapatna is an ancient town that was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore under the rule of Tipu Sultan and his father, Hyder Ali. It is located about 3 km from the waterfalls, and it is famous for its historical and cultural monuments, such as the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, the Daria Daulat Bagh, the Gumbaz, the Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, and the Tipu Sultan’s Fort. You can visit these places and witness the glory and the tragedy of the past, and also the devotion and the faith of the present. You can also enjoy the local cuisine and the handicrafts of the town, such as the Mysore silk and the sandalwood products.
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary:
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. It is located about 5 km from the waterfalls, and it is the largest bird sanctuary in Karnataka. It is home to more than 170 species of birds, such as the painted stork, the spoonbill, the egret, the heron, the ibis, the kingfisher, and the cormorant. You can visit the sanctuary and watch the birds in their natural habitat, and also spot some crocodiles, otters, and bats. You can also take a boat ride on the Cauvery river and enjoy the views of the sanctuary and the waterfalls.
Brindavan Gardens:
Brindavan Gardens is one of the most beautiful and popular gardens in India. It is located about 8 km from the waterfalls, and it is spread over 60 acres of land. It is situated below the KRS dam, and it is divided into three sections: the South Brindavan, the North Brindavan, and the Children’s Garden. You can visit the gardens and admire the variety and the beauty of the flowers, plants, and trees, and also the fountains, statues, and pavilions. You can also enjoy the musical fountain show that takes place every evening, and also the light and sound show that narrates the history of the KRS dam and the waterfalls.
Mysore Palace:
Mysore Palace is one of the most magnificent and majestic palaces in India. It is located about 18 km from the waterfalls, and it is the official residence of the Wodeyar dynasty, the former rulers of Mysore. It is also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, and it is a blend of Hindu, Islamic, Gothic, and Rajput styles of architecture. You can visit the palace and marvel at the grandeur and the elegance of the interiors and the exteriors, and also the paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. You can also enjoy the illumination of the palace that takes place every Sunday and on public holidays, and also the cultural events and festivals that are held at the palace grounds.
The Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are two beautiful man-made waterfalls near Mysore, Karnataka, India. They are located on the banks of the Cauvery river, near the KRS dam. They offer a variety of activities and things to do for visitors of all ages and interests, such as swimming, boating, fishing, photography, and sightseeing. They are also located near some of the most important and interesting places in the region, such as Srirangapatna, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Brindavan Gardens, and Mysore Palace. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a fun-filled adventure, or a cultural exploration, Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls have something for everyone.
We hope this article has helped you to learn more about the Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls, and inspired you to visit them soon. If you have any questions or feedback, please let us know in the comments section below. If you have visited the waterfalls, please share your experience and tips with us and other readers.
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