Formed by the River Kaveri, Shivanasamudra falls is made up of the twin waterfalls, the Barachukki Falls in Kollegala and the Gaganachukki Falls in Malavalli. The Barachukki Falls plummet from a height of 69 metres and the Gaganachukki Falls from a height of 90 metres. Along the River Kaveri, the Shivanasamudra falls borders Malavali, Mandya, Kollegala, Chamrajanagara in Karnataka. Shivanasamudra falls is a breathtaking wonder in the district of Mandya, Karnataka.
Shivanasamudra Falls – Barachukki Falls And Gaganachukki Falls
The Shivanasamudra falls is a segmented waterfall. The Barachukki falls are a few km to the south-west of the Gaganachukki falls. This is because the Kaveri river itself segregates into western and eastern branches, a few kms to the south. The western branch forms the twin waterfalls of Gaganachukki, whereas the eastern branch forms the Barachukki falls.
The Gaganachukki Falls are shaped like a huge horsetail. It is a steep waterfall that rushes down with great velocity and provides incredible views. Tourists can get the best view of the Gaganachukki waterfalls from the Shivanasamudra watch tower. Whereas the approach to the Gaganachukki falls from the Darga Hazrath Mardane Gaib (Imam Ali), where people climb down the rocks, attempting to view it from behind from the top is dangerous. Despite repeated warnings, many have attempted to do so and have resulted in many fatal accidents.
The segmented Barachukki Falls is wider than the Gaganachukki falls and is more popular amongst the tourists. There is a narrow flight of about 200 concrete steps that leads down to the waterfall. The way down to the waterfall is relatively safe, as it is fenced with railings and there are benches to sit on and relax for a while when you get tired.
Though the waterfalls are geographically placed adjacent to each other, the viewpoints are about 15 to 20 minutes drive. The waterfalls are both excellent picnic spots. However, in Shivanasamudra falls, swimming is dangerous and tourists are not allowed to go near the water.
Hydro-Electric Power Station in Shivanasamudra Falls
It is a noteworthy fact that Shivanasamudra houses one of the first hydro-electric power stations in Asia, which was set up in 1902, designed by Dewan Sir. Sheshadri Iyer and Chief Engineer Sir M. Visvesvaraya. It is the first hydro-electric power station in India and functions till date. Tourists can visit the power station by seeking special permission through Karnataka Power Corporation. It is a good experience to travel by the British built winch lift.
Best time to visit Shivanasamudra
The Shivanasamudra falls are perennial, however the best time to visit the falls is during monsoon, which extends from June to September when there is a voluminous flow of water.
Things to do in and near Shivanasamudra falls
Coracle rides
Apart from watching the Barachukki falls and the Gaganachukki falls, which form the Shivanasamudra falls, tourists can go on coracle rides to the mouth of the Barachukki falls.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temples
Out of the three Ranganathaswamy temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, two are located in the areas surrounding the Shivanasamudra falls. The Adhi Ranga temple in Srirangapatna, which is around 100 km from Shivanasamudra and the much closer one, the Madhya Ranga temple, which is located in the island town of Shivanasamudra itself.
Talakadu
Talakadu is located on the banks of river Kaveri and is just 30 km from the Shivanasamudra falls. It is a historic town and a famous pilgrimage centre. The renowned Vaidyanatheeswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located here.
Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary
The Kokre Bellur Bird sanctuary, the home to a large variety of birds is about 51 km from Shivanasamudra falls.
Bheemeshwari adventure and nature camp
Bheemeshwari adventure and nature camp is about 63 km from Shivanasamudra falls, is a great picnic spot and a major fishing hub.
Channapatna
Channapatna is a small town on the Bangalore-Mysore highway. The town is famous for well-crafted wooden toys and lacquerware that are created there. It is about 70 km from Shivanasamudra.
How to reach Shivanasamudra falls
By Air
The nearest airport to reach the Shivanasamudra falls is the Bangalore international airport, which is about 134 km. One can hire a cab from Bangalore to reach Shivanasamudra falls.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Shivanasamudra falls is the Mysore Railway Station, which is about 77 km from the falls. Maddur also has a railway station that is near to the waterfalls but the preferred one is the Mysore Railway Station.
By Road
There are several KSTDC buses that operate between Bangalore and Kollegal frequently. From Kollegal there are local means of transport available to reach the waterfalls. Visitors can also hire cabs, private vehicles or taxis to reach the waterfalls directly from Bangalore or Mysore.
Quick facts
- Shivanasamudra falls Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM on all days.
- There is no entry fee for Shivanasamudra falls.
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