Kunchikal falls

       Kunchikal Falls, Karnataka - 455m (1,493ft) 

The Kunchikal falls is the highest waterfalls in India and second highest in Asia. The tallest waterfall of India with a height of  1,493 ft is located near Agumbe in Shimoga district of Karnataka. Agumbe valley is among the places in India that receive very heavy rainfall and it has the only permanent rain forest research station in India.

The India’s biggest waterfall is formed by the Varahi river and lies in the Western Ghats. The Ghats is well famous for its Giant Indian squirrel, Indian bullfrog and other unique birds, rare reptiles and bizarre wild animals.

Located near the Masthikatte-Hulikal on the Shimoga -Udupi border in Karnataka, Kunchikal Falls is formed by the River Varahi. The waterfall from a height of 455 meters in a cascading form on these rocky boulders giving an impressive sight. The Kunchikal waterfalls rank 116th in height in the world and India’s highest waterfall. The River Varahi flows down from a greater altitude in a cascading manner over these rocky structures close to the Hulikal Ghati Temple.A hydroelectric plant is built up under the waterfall, which generated high power electricity. The water falls into the reservoir of the Mani dam, which greatly reduced the flow of water.  The picturesque location is a splendid location to enjoy the nature’s delight.Rainy season is the ideal time to visit the waterfall. The envelope of greenery surrounding the area truly enchants anyone. The trajectory of the Varahi river is an impressive sight to watch for. Several waterfalls will be formed by the tributaries of Varahi river, as it falls into the Kunchikal waterfall. The bewitching view is exquisite that one cannot take eyes off it. The several waterfalls formed by the other rivers flow down with the Varahi rivers, adding an elegance to the location. The poignant feature of the waterfalls is its cascading levels and the compelling backdrop of spellbound green beauty.

Hydro Electric Power Station at Kunchikal Falls

With the construction of Mani Dam, near Masthikatte at the base of the waterfall, most the water flows into the dam to generate high power hydroelectricity. With the dam built up there, there is a restriction in the visits to the waterfall. Special permissions need to be acquired before visiting Kunchikal Falls. The area surrounding the waterfall is preserved very well to maintain the serenity of the area.The area is well maintained and is one among the unpolluted ones in the area. The dam restricts the public drive into the area, hence less frequent visits from the public. The area is a wondrous picnic spot to enjoy a day away from the hassles and bustles of the city.

Best Time to Visit Kunchikal Falls

The best time to visit the Kunchikal Falls is during the rainy season i.e. from July to September. The enormous flow of water that gush out of the waterfall is indeed a sight to watch for. During the rainy season.The cascading level look elegant in these rainy seasons.