Honnamma Falls is a lovely waterfall located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. The waterfall is situated at a distance of about 25 km from Kemmanagundi and about 1 km from Baba Budan Giri Dattatreya Peetha. Nestled within a dense forest area the waterfall is one of the lesser known natural beauties of Karnataka.
The lovely waterfall has a height of about 30 feet. It is a wonderful spot and offers fascinating views of Baba Budan Giri Hills.
Manikyda Dhara that never dries up
The waterfall is also known as Manikyadhara falls, which means gentle as a pearl. This is because the water here falls as gently as a pearl drop. Legend also has it that the name Manikyda Dhara for the waterfall has been derived from the name of the saint Manikyda Dhara.
An interesting fact about the waterfall is that it has never dried up till date. Even in the dry summer season the sparkling white water of the falls can be seen falling incessantly. This makes it one of those waterfalls that can be visited throughout the year.
Information for visitors
There are a number of steps built from the approach road near the falls. These well laid steps lead visitors to the bottom of the waterfall. There is a protection fence that has been erected at the bottom near the pool of water created by the falls. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing bath under the waterfall near the fence.
Best time to visit the Honnamma Falls
Though the waterfall can be visited throughout the year, the best time to visit it is during the months of October to April.
Nearby Attractions
Honnamma Falls is situated near Kemmanagundi, one of the most popular tourist destinations of Karnataka. There are several attractions in the places surrounding the waterfall. Among them are:
Raj Bhavan: It is a magnificent guest house located in Kemmanagundi. It offers splendid views of the surrounding hills. The view of the sunset from Raj Bhavan is an extraordinary sight.
Shiva Temple: The famous Shiva Temple of Kemmanagundi attracts tourists from far and near. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is known for its outstanding architecture and beautiful rock carvings.
Z Point: Z Point is a spot located high up in the hills of Kemmanagundi. It can be reached by trekking through a steep uphill track from the Raj Bhavan. The specialty of the place is that it offers spectacular views of the sunrise. It is also a spot from where the panoramic view of nature can be enjoyed at peace.
Rajendra Hill: Rajendra hill is known for having one of the highest peaks of Karnataka. It is situated in Kemmanagundi. The hill is also famous as the Bababudan Hill. The hill range has a height of about 1448 metres and is ideal for trekking and exploring the flora of the region.
Rock Garden: The rock garden in Kemmanagundi is a popular spot that is frequented by the tourists. The garden has well laid out pathways that have been carved out of rocks. The place is full of various flowers. Another attraction of the place is the spectacular sunset view that one can get from the garden. The Bhadra reservoir is also visible from the Rock Garden.
Kallathi Falls: The Kallathi Falls is located at a distance of about 10 km from Kemmanagundi. The majestic waterfall descends from a height of 122 metres and is a lovely sight to watch. There is also an ancient temple near the waterfall that attracts a lot of visitors on a regular basis.
How to reach the Honnamma Falls
Kemmanagundi is a beautiful place that attracts many tourists throughout the year. As such, there are several means of transport to reach Kemmanagundi and then proceed to the Honnamma Falls.
By Air
Kemmanagundi is a hill station that has no airport of its own. As such, visitors will have to fly to the Bangalore International Airport or the Mangalore Airport to reach the waterfall. From the airport cabs and taxis can be hired to reach the site.
By Rail
The nearest railway station to reach the waterfall is located at Birur. From Birur local means of transport like private buses are available to Lingdahalli. From Lingdahalli a few buses are available for Kemmanagundi. From Kemmanagundi visitors can proceed for the waterfall through jeeps.
The railway station sitauted at Tarekere is also not very far from Kemmanagundi and can be accessed to reach Kemmanagundi before proceeding towards the waterfall.
By Road
There are frequent KSRTC buses that connect Bangalore to Kemmanagundi. Those who want to drive to Kemmanagundi there are quite a few routes available for them that pass through National highway NH-48 and NH-206. The drive through Chikmagalur offers some amazing scenic views of the surroundings.
From Kemmanagundi jeeps can be hired by visitors for reaching the waterfall.
Also See:
- Other Water falls in Karnataka
- Dams in Karnataka
- Rivers in Karnataka
- Trekking in Karnataka
- About Chikamagalur
- About Kemmangundi