Unchalli Falls mesmerizing waterfall in the Shimoga

Unchalli Falls, also known as Lushington Falls, is a mesmerizing waterfall in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India.

It is in the dense forests of the Western Ghats, making it a popular tourist destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Key features of Unchalli Falls

Location of  Unchalli Falls

It is near the town of Siddapura, which is approximately 35 kilometers from the district headquarters of Shimoga.

It is situated in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India.

Height

 The waterfall cascades from a height of about 116 meters (380 feet). This makes it one of the tallest waterfalls in Karnataka.

Surroundings

The falls are surrounded by lush green forests, creating a picturesque and serene environment. The dense vegetation adds to the natural beauty of the area.

Trekking

 To reach the falls, visitors often have to undertake a short trek through the forest. The trek to Unchalli is considered moderately challenging and is an adventure in itself. The trail offers opportunities for bird watching and exploring the flora and fauna of the Western Ghats.

 

Local Legend

Unchalli Falls is also associated with a local legend. It is believed that a British officer named J.D. Lushington discovered the falls in the 19th century, and it was subsequently named Lushington Falls in his honor.

Kodachadri

Unchalli Falls is located in close proximity to the famous Kodachadri Hill, which is a popular trekking destination and offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

Remember to check the local conditions and regulations before planning a visit to Unchalli Falls, especially during the monsoon season, as safety should be a top priority when exploring the area. Enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility of this waterfall is an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting the region.

The best time to visit Unchalli Falls is during the post-monsoon and winter months, which typically span from October to February. Here’s why:

Post-Monsoon Season (October to November)

During this time, the monsoon rains have just ended, and the waterfall is still at its fullest and most majestic. The volume of water flowing over Unchalli Falls is impressive and creates a breathtaking spectacle.

The surrounding forests are lush and vibrant, providing a beautiful backdrop for your visit.

The weather is relatively cool and pleasant, making it comfortable for trekking to the falls and enjoying the natural beauty.

Winter Season (December to February)

This is another excellent time to visit Unchalli Falls because the weather is cooler and more comfortable compared to the hot and humid summer months.

The waterfall continues to flow, albeit with slightly reduced water volume compared to the post-monsoon season.

The clear skies and pleasant temperatures make it a great time for outdoor activities, trekking, and photography.

While the post-monsoon and winter months are generally the best times to visit Unchalli Falls, you should still be prepared for some rainfall and mist, especially in the post-monsoon season. Additionally, it’s advisable to check the local weather conditions and trail accessibility before planning your trip, as heavy rainfall can affect the trekking path and safety in the area. Always prioritize safety and follow any local guidelines and regulations when visiting the falls.

 

By Air

• The nearest major airport to Unchalli Falls is Mangalore International Airport (approximately 195 kilometers away). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Siddapura, which is the nearest town to Unchalli Falls.

 Train

• The nearest railway station to Unchalli Falls is the Shimoga Railway Station (also known as Shivamogga Railway Station), which is well-connected to various major cities in Karnataka and other parts of India.
• From Shimoga Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Siddapura, which is the base for visiting the falls.

By Road

• Siddapura, a town located around 35 kilometers from Shimoga, serves as the base for visiting Unchalli Falls.
• You can reach Siddapura by road from Shimoga, which is well-connected to major cities in Karnataka through a network of state and national highways.
• Once you reach Siddapura, you will need to proceed to the falls. The trek to Unchalli Falls typically starts from a point near Heggarne village, which is about 4-5 kilometers from Siddapura.

Please note that the last leg of the journey to Unchalli Falls may require a trek through the forest. It’s advisable to check local conditions, transportation options, and any trekking permits or regulations in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the monsoon season when the trek can be more challenging due to slippery paths.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to ask locals for the most up-to-date information on how to reach Unchalli Falls, as conditions and access routes can change over time.

The Shimoga district in Karnataka, where Unchalli Falls is located, offers a plethora of natural and cultural attractions nearby. Here are some places to visit in the vicinity:

Sakrebailu Elephant Camp

 Located about 28 kilometers from Unchalli Falls, this camp is home to a group of trained elephants. Visitors can watch and interact with these majestic creatures in a natural setting.

Jog Falls: About 90 kilometers from Unchalli Falls, Jog Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in India. It’s a spectacular sight, especially during the monsoon season when it’s in full flow. There’s a viewpoint for great photo opportunities.

Kodachadri Hill: Situated around 75 kilometers from Unchalli Falls, Kodachadri is a beautiful trekking destination known for its lush forests and panoramic views of the Western Ghats. It’s a great place for nature lovers and trekkers.

Shimoga (Shivamogga): The district headquarters, Shimoga, is around 35 kilometers from Unchalli Falls. It’s a bustling city with historical temples, parks, and a rich cultural heritage. You can explore places like Shivappa Nayaka Palace and the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary nearby.

Kollur

 Located approximately 95 kilometers away, Kollur is famous for the Mookambika Temple, a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Mookambika. The temple architecture and the serene surroundings make it worth a visit.

Gajanur Dam: This dam is around 35 kilometers from Unchalli Falls and is a serene spot to relax. The dam area has a garden and boating facilities, making it a pleasant place for a day trip.

Tunga Anicut Dam: Located about 50 kilometers away, this dam is built on the Tunga River. It’s a picturesque spot with a serene atmosphere and is an ideal place for picnics.

Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari: This safari park is situated about 30 kilometers from Unchalli Falls and offers a chance to see lions and tigers in a semi-natural environment.

These nearby attractions offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and wildlife encounters, making the Shimoga district a diverse and interesting destination for travelers.

The distance from Bangalore (Bengaluru) to Unchalli Falls in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India, is approximately 360 to 380 kilometers, depending on the specific route you take. The journey by road can take around 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Here are a couple of common routes you can take:

1. Via NH206:
   • Take National Highway 48 (NH48) from Bangalore and head towards Tumkur.
   • From Tumkur, continue on NH48 and pass through Arsikere, Kadur, and Birur.
   • At Birur, turn onto State Highway 57 (SH57) and head towards Shimoga.
   • Once you reach Shimoga, you can further proceed to Unchalli Falls.
2. Via NH69:
   • Take National Highway 75 (NH75) from Bangalore and head towards Tumkur.
   • From Tumkur, continue on NH75 and pass through Tiptur, Arsikere, and Kadur.
   • At Kadur, you can join National Highway 173 (NH173) and continue towards Shimoga.
   • From Shimoga, follow the directions to Unchalli Falls.

The journey offers scenic views of the Karnataka countryside, and you can plan to take breaks along the way to enjoy local attractions and food. It’s advisable to check the road conditions, traffic, and weather before embarking on your trip, as these factors can affect travel time. Additionally, consider using a GPS or navigation app for real-time directions and updates during your journey.

The distance from Sirsi to Unchalli Falls is approximately 35 to 40 kilometers, depending on the specific route you take. Sirsi is a nearby town and serves as a convenient starting point for a visit to Unchalli Falls. Here are the general directions to reach Unchalli Falls from Sirsi:

1. Start from Sirsi, which is located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India.
2. Head east on the Sirsi-Siddapur Road (also known as SH1) towards Siddapur.
3. Continue on SH1 until you reach Siddapur, which is approximately 30 to 35 kilometers from Sirsi.
4. From Siddapur, you can proceed towards Heggarne village. This is usually the starting point for the trek to Unchalli Falls.
5. The trekking path from Heggarne village to Unchalli Falls is approximately 4 to 5 kilometers through the forest. Be prepared for a moderately challenging trek, especially if you visit during or after the monsoon season when the path can be slippery.

Please note that the trekking path may require guidance from locals, and it’s advisable to check the latest conditions and any regulations in place before starting your trek. The total travel time from Sirsi to Unchalli Falls can vary depending on your mode of transportation and the trekking duration.