Abbey Falls, Coorg – Best Time to Visit, Travel Tips

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a hill station in Karnataka that captivates visitors with its misty landscapes, aromatic coffee plantations, and serene waterfalls. One of the most iconic attractions in the region is Abbey Falls a picturesque waterfall located just a few kilometers from Madikeri town. This blog provides a detailed guide to Abbey Falls, including its location, best time to visit, travel options, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips.

Location of Abbey Falls

Abbey Falls is situated approximately 8 kilometers from Madikeri, the district headquarters of Coorg. Nestled within private coffee and spice estates, the waterfall is enveloped by lush greenery and thick forests. Originally known as Jessie Falls during the British colonial period, the site was renamed Abbey Falls, likely inspired by its calm and tranquil surroundings.

Why Abbey Falls Stands Out

Abbey Falls draws hundreds of visitors every day for its sheer beauty and accessibility. Key highlights include:

• Surrounded by dense vegetation, including coffee plantations, pepper vines, and silver oak trees
• Falls from a height of about 70 feet, offering a spectacular view and thunderous roar
• A hanging bridge at the viewpoint offers panoramic vistas, ideal for photography

Best Time to Visit Abbey Falls

The charm of Abbey Falls varies with the seasons. Below is a seasonal breakdown:

How to Reach Abbey Falls

Abbey Falls is accessible via road and can be reached easily from nearby towns and cities:

From Madikeri:

• Distance: Approximately 8 km
• Transport: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and rental bikes are commonly available
• Road Condition: Paved and scenic with narrow turns

From Bengaluru:

• Distance: Around 270 km
• Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours
• Options: Self-drive, private taxis, or KSRTC buses to Madikeri followed by a local cab

From Mysuru:

• Distance: About 120 km
• Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours
• Options: Car rental or bus to Madikeri, then local transport

Entry Details for Abbey Falls

What to Expect at Abbey Falls

Visitors will need to walk down a forested trail from the entrance to reach the falls. The path, approximately 500 meters, takes about 10–15 minutes to descend. Along the way, tall trees and dense foliage create a refreshing natural canopy.

At the base, the sight of water plunging from the cliff is accompanied by the surrounding mist and sound of the falls crashing onto the rocks. The flow eventually joins the Cauvery River.

The hanging bridge provides the best viewpoint for capturing photos and enjoying the view. However, swimming or going near the waterfall is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

Tips for Visiting Abbey Falls

• Wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven and sometimes slippery terrain
• Carry a raincoat or umbrella, especially during the monsoon
• Do not bring food; monkeys frequent the area and may snatch belongings
• Avoid plastic or littering; this is an ecologically sensitive zone
• Carry cash as digital payments are not always accepted

Nearby Attractions

Several tourist sites around Madikeri can be combined with a visit to Abbey Falls:

Raja’s Seat (9 km away)

A historical viewpoint with beautifully maintained gardens that overlook rolling valleys. Popular for sunsets and picnic outings.

Madikeri Fort (8 km away)

Built in the 17th century, the fort is a mix of British and Indian architectural styles and houses a museum and government offices.

Omkareshwara Temple (7.5 km away)

An unusual fusion of Islamic and Gothic architecture, this 19th-century Shiva temple is both spiritually and architecturally significant.

Coffee Plantation Tours

Many estates around Abbey Falls and Madikeri offer guided tours. Visitors can learn about coffee cultivation, harvesting, and processing — often ending with a tasting session.

Where to Eat Near Abbey Falls

While there are no dining options directly at the falls, several restaurants in Madikeri offer a variety of local and multi-cuisine meals:

• Raintree Restaurant: Known for its heritage ambiance and authentic Coorg cuisine

• Coorg Cuisine: Offers traditional Kodava dishes such as Pandi Curry and Kadambuttu

• Beans ‘n Brews Café: A popular spot for light snacks, coffee, and desserts

Accommodation in Coorg

Whether travelers are looking for luxury or budget stays, Coorg offers a wide range of options:

Cultural Insight: The Kodava Heritage

The Kodavas, the indigenous people of Coorg, are known for their rich warrior traditions, distinctive attire, and deep connection to nature. Visitors staying in homestays often get an opportunity to witness local festivals such as Kailpodh (celebration of arms) and Puttari (harvest festival).

Their cuisine, attire, and rituals make for a deeply immersive cultural experience. The Kodavas are also known for their hospitality and warmth.

Packing Essentials for Abbey Falls

Travelers planning a visit to Abbey Falls are advised to pack accordingly:

• Comfortable shoes with good grip
• Light raincoat or umbrella
• Reusable water bottle and basic snacks
• Camera or smartphone for photography
• Sunglasses and sunscreen (if visiting in summer)

Why Abbey Falls Should Be on Every Coorg Itinerary

Abbey Falls is not just a tourist attraction but a symbol of Coorg’s pristine natural beauty. Its easy accessibility, dramatic landscape, and tranquil atmosphere make it suitable for all types of travelers  from nature lovers and photographers to families and couples.

A visit to Abbey Falls is a sensory delight the sound of crashing water, the scent of coffee and wet earth, and the misty visuals leave a lasting impression. When planning a trip to Coorg, this iconic waterfall deserves a spot high on the itinerary.

Whether combined with a visit to nearby viewpoints, temples, and coffee estates or experienced as a standalone destination, Abbey Falls promises a refreshing retreat into nature’s lap.