If your idea of enjoying the monsoon is dancing in the rain, you ought to do so in the most natural setting possible. Being amidst the lush green environs of the scenic Abbey Falls can only add to the spectacle of monsoon and make you literally dance in joy. As one of Karnataka’s amazing natural attractions, Abbey Falls in Coorg is a destination that you just cannot miss exploring during the monsoon. But this doesn’t mean that it’s not worth visiting in the other seasons. After all, as they say, a thing of beauty is a joy forever!
Abbey Falls. Image Courtesy Ranna Photography
The enchanting beauty of the Abbey Falls
Nestled near Madikeri, Abbey Falls stands surrounded by a blanket of greenery. It is also known as Abbi Falls. To reach the waterfall, you will have to drive up to its entrance and then cover a short distance on foot.
As you make your way to the waterfall, you will be greeted by lush plantations of spice and coffee. The roar of the water along with the aroma of the plantations is a delight in itself. The brilliant view of the waterfall from the hanging bridge running opposite to the waterfall is a sight to cherish. Guarded by tall trees with pepper vines for a company, Abbey Falls sparkles as if a stream of white pearls is running down a green wall at a great speed. But if you happen to be standing on the hanging bridge right after the monsoons, the voluminous waterfall will leave you soaked by its spray of water.
Source of the Abbey Falls, Coorg
A number of small streams come together to form the sizzling cascade at Abbey Falls. The cascade gushes down a height of 70 feet to form a pool below that joins the River Cauvery. During the monsoon season, as the streams widen and the level of water increases, the rush down the cascade becomes thicker and lovelier to watch.
Abbey Falls. Image courtesy: Santhoshkumar Sugumar
History of the Abbey Falls, Coorg
During the British era, Abbey Falls was known as Jessy Falls. This is because when Coorg’s first British chaplain visited the place, he was enamoured with its beauty. He named the waterfall ‘Jessy Falls’ after his daughter who was called Jessy.
After the country gained independence, the waterfall and its surrounding areas came under the control of the government. The whole area was no better than a forest then. When Mr. Neravanda B. Nanaiah purchased the area from the government, he transformed the surrounding areas of the waterfall into spice and coffee plantations. As the area cleared up, the waterfall started to attract people’s attention. Today the waterfall is located on a private property. But that does not prove as a deterrent for the tourists.
Coffee Plantation, Coorg
Things to do on a trip to Abbey Falls, Coorg
If you are a lover of nature, the beauty of the Abbey Falls will be enough reason for you to spend time there. When on a visit to the Abbey Falls, you can explore the aromatic spice and coffee plantations surrounding the waterfall. A trek through the greenery can leave you with a refreshed mind. While crossing the hanging bridge, do not forget to capture the waterfall’s fascinating views in your camera. You can also visit the small shrine of Goddess Kali situated near the bridge.
Best time to visit Abbey Falls, Coorg
Since the Abbey Falls is at its peak form during the monsoon season, it is the best time to experience its beauty. So, July to October is the ideal time to plan a trip to the Abbey Falls. But if you want to avoid the rains, you can plan your trip at any time of the year.
Points to remember while visiting Abbey Falls
The water at the Abbey Falls may tempt you to take a dip or go for a swim. It is advisable to avoid such activities as the water may turn out to be too risky, especially during the monsoon season. Over the years, many deaths have been reported at the waterfall due to the negligence of the tourists.
In fact, the whole area becomes slippery in the rainy season. You will have to exercise caution while walking there in the monsoon. Also, leeches can be a nuisance if you visit Abbey Falls during the rains. So, watch out for them when you are on the marshes of the waterfall.
If you are planning to spend a couple of hours at the spot, you need to carry some light food items with you. There is no food stall located near the Abbey Falls. But on the way to the waterfall, you will come across a few roadside stalls selling tea, water, and snacks.
Other attractions near Abbey Falls, Coorg
While on a trip to Abbey Falls, you can explore a few other tourist spots located nearby.
Madikeri Fort
The imposing structure of the Madikeri Fort dates back to the 17th century. It was initially constructed of mud and was built by Muddu Raja. Later, Tipu Sultan rebuilt the structure with granite. If you are a history buff, the museum inside the fort will be an added attraction for you.
Madikeri Fort, Coorg. Image Courtesy imonholidays.com
Raja’s Seat
True to its name, the Raja’s Seat was once the spot from where the erstwhile kings of Kodagu used to watch sunsets with their queens or consorts. The view of the scenic surrounding areas from the Raja’s Seat is simply breath-taking. The toy train near the Raja’s Seat is a delight for the children.
Rajas Seat, Madikere. Image Courtesy Girdhan Singh
Omkareshwara Temple
Whether you are of a religious bent of mind or not, the Omkareshwara Temple deserves a visit due to its exceptional blend of Gothic and Islamic architecture. Built by Linga Rajendra II in 1820, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Raja’s Tomb or Gaddige
If you are fond of art and architecture, a visit to Gaddige or the Raja’s Tomb is a must. It is a beautiful structure built in 1820 in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. It houses the tombs of the Kodava royal family. The place offers an impressive view of a part of the Madikeri town.
Raja’s Tomb. Image courtesy Dinesh Kannambadi
How to reach Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls is situated at a distance of around 8 km from Madikeri. To reach the spot, you will need to follow the Galibeedu road from Madikeri. You can avail public transport or reach the spot in your own vehicle.
By Road
Several KSRTC and private buses operate from Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore to Madikeri. You can board any such bus to reach Madikeri. From Madikeri town, you can use local transport to reach the waterfall.
By Rail
If your preferred mode of transport is the railways, you will have to board a train for Mysore, which is the nearest railway station to reach the waterfall. You can hire a taxi from Mysore to Abbey Falls. Alternately, you can hop on a bus to Madikeri and take up local transport from there.
By Air
The nearest airport to Abbey Falls is the Mangalore International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a cab to reach the destination.
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