Nisargadhama Falls is an ideal destination for those who love nature and would like to spend time by themselves. This picturesque location has a guest house run by the forest department. The most dominating feature of the fall is the number of rivers located around it.
The fall is a perfect picnic spot and also offers boat rides in the calm and serene atmosphere. Nisargadhama falls has the kind of beauty that never fades away. It provides a calm and relaxing feel to every tourist. The falls is located at Nisargadhama Island.
Quick Facts about Nisargadhama
- Location: Coorg (MAP)
- Best Time to Visit: October and April
- Nearest Town: Kushalnagar (12km)
- Entry Fees to Nisargadhama Forest: INR 10/- per adult and INR 5/- per child
Park at Nisargadhama. Image courtesy Tinucherian
Nisargadhama Island: A Picturesque Location
Nisargadhama is a serene and peaceful island formed by the River Cauvery in the State of Karnataka. Karnataka is dominated by the Western Ghats which is a source of many rivers flowing through the State.
Nisargadhama is located near Kushalnagar in the Kogadu district of Karnataka. It is well known for its natural charm and peaceful surroundings. It is a 64 acre island surrounded by lush greenery on all sides.
One needs to cross a hanging bridge in order to reach this island. It is located at about 25 kms from Madikeri and 2 kms from Kushalnagar. It consists of lush foliage of teak trees, sandalwood trees and bamboo groves. It is a popular picnic spot and is well maintained by the authorities.
Old Bridge at Nisargadhama. Image courtesy Tinucherian
Activities nearby Nisargadhama Falls
The Island is perfect for a picnic with the children. There are rabbits, deers, peacocks and a playground for children. You can visit the mini zoo or take a boat ride. You can also choose to spend the night at the tree house facilities with restaurant.
Elephant rides and boating are a major attraction here. Tourists are also allowed to get into the water at a few safe points along the river. There are many shallow portions of the river through which you can easily walk through.
There are tree top bamboo cottages and forest run department guest houses for accommodation. There is one small restaurant as well. It is an ideal location to spend a peaceful evening.
Nisargadhama Falls nearby Attractions
Abbey Falls: Abbey Falls is at a distance of about 25 kms from the Nisargadhama Falls. It is famous for the leeches found in the water. It is perfectly located between coffee and cardamom plantations that give a fresh aroma to the area. It is considered to be one of the best waterfalls with white foamy water flowing in the serene location.
Abbey Falls. Image Courtesy Ranna Photography
Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement: A few minutes drive from the Nisargadhama falls lies the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement, which is the region of ‘ lugsum Samdupling’ and ‘ Dichyi larsoe’. It was established in 1961 and 1969 by refugee settlements in the Kogadu region.
Known as one of the largest Tibetan Settlement in India, it is home to more than 16000 refugees and has temples and monasteries located therein. The settlement is managed by seven thousand of monks and nuns. One can simply hear the enchanting sounds of the prayers and chants which add to the environment of this region.
Bylakuppe. Image courtesy Sahyadri H S
How to Reach Nisargadhama Falls
By Air
The nearest airport is Mangalore. From there one needs to travel via road to reach the falls.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Kushalnagar. After getting down at the station, one needs to avail a taxi or rickshaw to reach the falls.
By Road
Nisargadhama is conveniently connected with roads as well. The falls lies at a distance of 270 kms from Bangalore, 2 kms from Kushalnagar and 25 kms from Madikeri.