The literal meaning of Shivanasamudra is Shiva’s Sea.
Situated at a distance of 135 from Bangalore on the Bangalore – Mysore expressway, Shivanasamudra is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Karnataka. It is a popular weekend getaway from Bangalore. The waterfall is located on the Kaveri River near the island town of Shivanasamudra in the Chamarajanara district bordering the Mandya district. And the region around the waterfall is famous for being the location of Asia’s first hydropower plant which was built in 1902 and still functional.
The source river of the waterfall is the Kaveri River which is considered one of the most religious rivers in India. At Shivanasamudra the water of the Kaveri river split into two parts – Barachukki Falls and Gaganachukki Falls. These 2 waterfall flows on either side of the island at a distance of 15 KM from each other. These 2 waterfalls are considered one of the best in the world and Barachukki is rated as the Niagara Falls of South India.
Shivanasamudra Falls
- Location – Malavalli Taluk, Mandya district, Karnataka
- Height – 320 feet
- Width – 893 meters
- Timing – 8 AM to 5 PM
- Entry Fee – Free
Barachukki Falls
Situated on the eastern side of the waterfall, Barachukki Falls is more famous among both falls. With a height of 69 meters and a width of 800 meters, Barachukki Falls is easily accessible.
There are staircases built around the waterfall which takes you to the bottom of the falls where you’ll have benches to sit & enjoy the mesmerizing view of the falls. There are many small islands under the fall across the streams where you can find shallow water for bathing and enjoying water activities.
If you’re an adventure lover like me then don’t miss out on the coracle ride which takes you to the mouth of the waterfall. The waterfall also has a part where the water flow is less. This area is perfect for standing and enjoying the beauty of the waterfall as close as possible. But to reach there you need to take a trek which passes through a narrow stream. During the peak monsoon season, the water current becomes very high so needs to cross very carefully.
Gaganachukki Falls
Gaganachukki Falls is the western branch of Shivanasamudra Falls. This part of the waterfall is well-maintained with watch towers, benches and fencing. You can’t reach the bottom of Gaganachukki Falls as the area is fenced and nobody allowed to go close to the waterfall. There is also a warning board displaying the same message. But some tourists don’t follow the restriction and try to go close to the fall which has resulted into many fatal accidents.
You can also enjoy the scenic view of the waterfall from Dargah of Hazrath Mardane Gaib.
During the low season when the flow of the water becomes normal then you can go near the waterfall and enjoy the activities like boating and coracle ride. But, the locals who take you to the coracle ride don’t have life jackets. Also, there are no lifeguards here so go at your own risk.
Best Time To Visit Shivanasamudra Falls
June to January is the best time to visit Shivanasamudra Falls when the water flow is high and the surroundings become lush. During peak monsoon season from June to September, you can enjoy the best weather conditions and intensity of the waterfall.
But if you don’t want to get wet then the post-monsoon season is the ideal time for you when the water level gets low but enough to excite you with thundering sounds and adventurous activities. During this time the climate becomes smooth with little bit of rain and diverse vegetation.
How to reach Shivanasamudra Falls From Bangalore
By Car – The shortest and fastest way to reach Shivanasamudra Falls from Bangalore is via the Mysore expressway. The road condition is excellent with less traffic. The route is very scenic with surrounding natural beauty like mountains and lakes. It will take around 3 hours to reach Shivanasamudra from Bangalore.
Route – Bangalore -> Kumbalgodu -> Ramanagara -> Channapatna -> Bharathi Nagara -> Malavalli -> Shivanasamudra
By Bus – Bus is another good alternative to reach Shivanasamudra Falls from Bangalore. There are many buses regularly plying between Bangalore to Shivanasamudra. You can easily get the KSRTC buses from the satellite bus stop of Bangalore to Shivanasamudra which takes around 3 and a half hours. The bus will leave you at Sathegala hand post (SG hand post) which is around 8 KM from the waterfall. From there you need to hire an auto to reach the waterfall.
By Train – Shivanasamudra doesn’t have any railway station. The nearest railway station to the waterfall is in Mandya which is around 60 KM from the waterfall. The nearest junction to the waterfall is in Mysore which is 80 KM from the Shivanasamudra Falls. Either you can take the train from Bangalore to Mandya or Mysore then hire a car to reach the waterfall.
Things To Do
Coracle Ride – Coracle Ride is the best way to take a closer look at Shivanasamudra Falls. Watching the misty cloud formed from the water plunging down at great speed from the height of 98 meters is a unique experience. This boat will give you a chance to explore the other region around the Kaveri River.
Photography – Being one of the largest waterfalls in the country, Shivanasamudra Falls offer great opportunities for photography lovers. Watching thousands of gallons of water per second plunging down from a height of 98 meters with a thundering speed is a great sight to capture. There are many viewpoints around the waterfall from where you can capture its beauty with ease. And if you want to do something unique then with some effort you can easily explore a hidden spot to capture its beauty from a close distance.
Visit Talakadu – Talakadu is a historical and archaeological site famous for its temples and vast spread of sand. Just 30 KM from Shivanasamudra Falls it is situated on the bank of Kaveri river. Due to the number of historic temples, this place is also known as the Kashi of the South. There are a total of 30 temples and most of them are buried under the sand & some of them are excavated including the 5 temples of Shiva also known as Panchalinga. Also, explore the marvelous Keerti Narayan temple which is built in Hoysala style.
Along with temples, there is a beach called Talakadu Beach which is great to spend quality time amidst nature. Surrounded by the lush green forest, it is the best place to spend lazy time.
Hydroelectric Power Plant – Visit Asia’s first hydroelectric power plant at Shivanasamudra. It looks surreal, especially in monsoons when the surroundings become lush.
Somnathpur – Just 27 KM from the Shivanasamudra there is a historic village named Somnathpur. Famous for its world heritage site, Chennakeshava temple is the must-visit place near Shivanasamudra Falls. The main highlight of this temple is its incredible architecture of the Hoysala style. The design of this temple attracts history buffs from all over the world.
Where To Eat
There are number of local shops and eateries near the viewpoints. They serve delicious local dishes including juices, tea and coffee. You can try tasty fish by Taayi Magalu near Barachukki Road and lunch at Anugraha family restaurant, Malavalli.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shivanasamudra Falls Worth Visiting?
Yes, Shivanasamudra is one of the largest waterfalls in India. Surrounded by the lush green forest & mountains, this place looks spectacular, especially in monsoon when the water flow at its peak. The thundering sound of falling water from 98 meters will calm your soul and mind.
Can we take bath in Shivanasamudra Falls?
No, due to the high current and great depth of water swimming is not allowed at Shivanasamudra Falls. But there are some regions around Barachukki Falls where the water level is ideal to take a bath.
How is the road to Shivanasamudra from Bangalore?
The road condition is excellent from Bangalore to Shivanasamudra Falls. The Bangalore-Mysore expressway is a low-traffic route. And the route is filled with many restaurants and cafes where you can taste local food.