Achakanya waterfall is one of the less explored natural beauties of Karnataka. The waterfall is located near the village of Aralasurali that lies about 10 km from the town of Thirthahalli in the Shimoga district of Karnataka.
The waterfall is formed by the River Sharavathi when it takes a splendid leap among the dense forests of Western Ghats. The spectacular fall has a height of about 6 to 7 feet.
Achakanya Falls. Image source hikeezee.com
The beauty of the Achakanya Falls, Shimoga
The small but magnificent Achakanya Falls is a beauty to watch. During the monsoon season, when the water gushes down with full force, the waterfall becomes a fascinating sight to watch. Surrounded by greenery on all sides, the stream of white water creates a pleasant view for the visitors.
The waterfall is hidden from view as it is located within the dense forest range of Western Ghats. Anyone who wants to reach the waterfall will have to trek to the place and experience the beauty of nature in such a pristine form.
Trekking to the Achakanya Falls, Shimoga
Achakanya waterfall is a great destination for trekkers. Situated in the middle of a forest, the waterfall presents a challenge to the trekkers to find it. There are no marked ways or routes to reach the waterfall. One has to either find the way through the forest or take the help of locals to locate the site.
No signboards mentioning anything about the waterfall can be found on the way to the site. Hence, it is a bit difficult to find the waterfall.
However, the wonderful view of the waterfall and the surrounding areas are worth the effort of trekking to the site. In fact, trekking to the waterfall can be an experience in itself as the trek route proceeds through the forest and provides an opportunity to observe the varied flora of the region from close range.
Some varieties of birds can also be spotted while trekking through the greenery.
Best time to visit the Achakanya Falls, Shimoga
The best time to visit the Achakanya Falls is during the rainy season, when the waterfall can be seen in its full glory. So, it is better to plan a trip to the waterfall during the months of July to October.
Attractions near the Achakanya Falls, Shimoga
There are several other tourist attractions spread out in the areas surrounding the Achakanya Falls. A few such attractions are:
Ambuthirtha is the birth place of river Sharavathi. It is located in the mountains at a distance of about 5 km from the waterfall.
Tunga Bridge is a unique creation of Sir. M. Visvesvaraya, constructed across the Tunga River. It connects Thirthahalli to a place called Kuruvalli. The bridge is more than a 100 years old and resembles the harbour bridge at Sydney.
Sri Rameshwara Temple is a famous religious site of Thirthahalli. The temple stands on the banks of the river Tunga. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple consists of a Lingam which is believed to have been installed by Sage Parashurama himself.
Anandagiri and Siddeshwara Gudda – These are two hills that stand guard over the Thirthahalli town. First one is called Anandagiri Gudda and it is located on Shimoga Road. The second one is called Siddeshwara Gudda and it is located on Agumbe Road. Both the hills present wonderful view of the surrounding areas from the summit.
Kuppalli is a lovely village located at a distance of 18 km from Thirthahalli. It is the birth place of the famous Kananda poet and playwright Kuvempu. Kavishaila and Kavimane are two historical places to be seen in Kuppalli.
Information for visitors
As Achakanya Falls is located within a forest, there are no shops near the waterfall. Hence, it is better to carry food and water along with you. It is advisable to start for the waterfall early in the day and leave the site before evening descends.
There are no accommodation facilities available near Achakanya waterfall. The nearest place where descent hotels can be found is at Thirthahalli.
How to reach Achakanya Falls, Shimoga
To reach the Achakanya Falls one has to go to Shimoga first. There are several means of transport to reach Shimoga from various parts of Karnataka.
By Air
The nearest airport to reach the village of Aralasurali or the waterfall is the Mangalore International Airport.
By Rail
The village Aralasurali is not connected by railways. The nearest railway station is located in the town of Shimoga that stands at a distance of 60 km from the village. The Mangalore Rail Way Station is a major railway station that is situated at a distance of 124 km from Aralasurali.
By Road
There are no direct buses that operate between Bangalore and Aralasurali. But Bangalore has frequent buses for Shimoga. There are buses that connect Aralasurali village to several towns and villages such as Tirthahalli, Sringeri, Shimoga, etc.
From Aralasurali village one has to trek the distance to the waterfall. Private vehicles can be hired to reach the village of Aralasurali. The private vehicles can reach a little more inside the forest but the last one kilometre to reach the waterfall is a trekking route and has to be covered on foot.
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