Agumbe, Karnataka | Weather, Ghat, Rainforst, Falls, Trek

Agumbe, Shimoga (Shivamogga) Overview

Located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, Agumbe is a small village often referred to as the "Cherrapunji of South India". This biodiversity-rich region has the highest rainfall in south India and the second-highest annual rainfall in India. Agumbe is an enriching experience as this hill station is blessed with picturesque beauty and trekking trails. It is one of the last surviving lowland rainforests. Agumbe served as the setting for India's very famous fictional town Malgudi in the TV serial Malgudi Days.

It is home to some rare species of medicinal plants like Myristica, Listsaea, Garcinia, Diospyros, Eugenia and more, hence it got the nickname "Hasiru Honnu" which means green is gold. Being home to an extensive rainforest and the wide variety of flora and fauna, Agumbe houses the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station. This is India's oldest weather station which exclusively monitors any changes made in the rainforest areas. Interestingly, Agumbe is also called as the "Cobra Capital" because of the high number of Cobras found here. Agumbe provides great options for trekking, beckoning the adventure enthusiasts to visit this offbeat destination hidden in the lap of nature.

Waterfalls in Agumbe

Agumbe is famous for the waterfalls located here which provide a scintillating and awe-inspiring view of the surrounding hills. Because of the heavy rainfall, there are many waterfalls situated close to one another.

1. Kunchikal Falls: Formed by the river Varahi and falling from a height of 455 metres, this is one of the highest waterfalls in India. Cascading on the rocky boulders, the Kunchikal Falls are an impressive sight to behold. A hydroelectric plant is located under the waterfall which generates high power electricity for the region. This is a perfect location to enjoy the beauty of nature.

2. Barkana Falls: This is the tenth highest waterfall in India, located in the Balehalli forest area. Barkana falls has a height of 850 ft, and originates from the Seeta River that flows through this region. The water of this fall is used to power a hydroelectric system making it one of the prime sources of hydroelectricity in the Karnataka region. Located in the midst of the dense forest, it offers a spectacular sight.

3. Onake Abbi Falls: This waterfall can be reached after trekking for 5km through the rainforests. Since it is located at 400 ft, it is possible to get a spectacular view of the entire falls once you reach the top.

4. Koodlu Theertha Falls: This waterfall can be reached from Sunset Point. Located at a distance of 20 km from the main town of Agumbe, it is a picturesque trek through the dense jungles to the Koodlu Theertha falls.

5. Jogigundi Falls: It is one of the most preferred locations for a trek in this region. Jogigundi falls is a small waterfall located near Agumbe, and it is filled with water for the most part of the year.

Places To Visit In Agumbe

1. Gopala Krishna Temple: This is a 14th-century temple located in Agumbe which has great importance in the region. This temple attracts a considerable number of tourists from all over to this small hamlet. This temple is built with the perfection of Vaastu and is known for its stunning sculptures. There are 108 steps leading from the basement to the Garbha Griha symbolising the 108 names of Lord Krishna.

2. Sunset Point: One of the most famous places in Agumbe, the sunset point is one of the highest peaks of the Western Ghats offering a bewitching view of the setting sun on the horizon of the Arabian Sea. This place is only a 10-minute walk from the main town. It is often flocked by tourists visiting Agumbe who spend a peaceful time here, away from the noise of the big cities

River Rafting in Sita Nadi River, Agumbe

Sita Nadi starting near Agumbe, a small hamlet in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, is a river perfect for some high-intensity river rafting. The river rafting starts at Agumbe and carries on along the 70 km stretch of the mighty river. There are many adventure travel companies that provide exclusive packages for rafting sometimes coupled with trekking to nearby hills. The rafting lengths range from 16-18 km to 22-28 km covering mild and strong rapids, the organizers take care of all safety needs ensuring access to all age groups.

Best Time To Visit Agumbe

Monsoon is the best period, i.e. June to October, to visit Agumbe for river rafting as the Sita Nadi swells up and the rapids become challenging. The beauty of the village gets enhanced even more during the monsoon period allowing you to enjoy some breathtaking views of the Western Ghats at Agumbe. Do not forget to carry adequate rain protection gear.

Stays Near Agumbe

Agumbe is a small village hence there aren't many places for accommodation. One can stay at Sita Nadi Nisargadhama (River Camp) which is 17 km away from the village center. One can also stay at Shimoga which is a bigger tourist center with accommodation option for all budget sizes.

Tips For Visiting Agumbe

1. Agumbe is the second wettest place in India and therefore carry adequate raincoats, umbrellas etc.
2. Do not wear cotton while rafting, wear synthetic or polyester fibre clothes. Women should avoid wearing sarees.
3. Don't forget to try the crispy Masala Vada (Ambode), Kashaya and the vanilla-flavoured tea which are regional specialities.

How to reach Agumbe

Air: Mangalore is the nearest Air head at 106 km while Bangalore is 378 km from Agumbe.
Rail: The nearest rail head is at Udupi which is 54 km from Agumbe, one can easily get public transport or hail a cab fro Agumbe.
Road: KSRTC buses ply from Bangalore, Mangalore, Shimoga and Udupi till Agumbe. There are many private bus services available from the aforementioned places. A road journey from Bangalore by a cab will take you some eight hours to reach.

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Agumbe Reviews

Your rating

Muhammed Salih

on Agumbe 6 years ago

As the nearest Hill station available to me, this is a very frequently visited place for me. The drive is one of the highlights of reaching there as you go through forests and hairpin roads you feel (Read More)yourself climbing the altitude with fogs engulfing you from every side. Before you reach the top, there is the sunset point of Agumbe from where you can catch one of the most beautiful sights you?ll ever see in your life. When you do reach the top, you can find local street food and some of the best sceneries ever.