Trek to Hidlumane Falls in Kodachadri

About Hidlumane Falls:

Hidlumane Falls is located near Bellakka village, close to Nittur, on the Kodachadri trek route in Shimoga district, Karnataka. This beautiful waterfall is in the Mookambika Reserve Forest at the base of the Kodachadri hills in the Western Ghats. Hidlumane Falls is made up of six cascading waterfalls, each dropping 50 to 70 feet. You can reach part of the way by Jeep, which you can hire at Kollur Temple, Hosenagara, or Nagara.

From the Jeep drop-off, you’ll need to trek about 3 kilometers to reach the first fall. The total distance from Kollur main road is 8 kilometers. The final trek goes through thick forest and includes some rock climbing. The path from the first fall to the sixth fall is steeper and involves walking through forest, water, and over rocks.

How to reach Hidlumane Falls:

By Air: The closest airport is in Mangalore. From Mangalore Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to get to Kollur. From Kollur, you can catch a bus or hire a private vehicle to Nittur village and then continue to the waterfall.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kundapura. From there, you can hire a jeep to reach Kodachadri and then continue to the waterfall.

By Road: There are regular buses from Bangalore and other parts of Karnataka to Kollur and Kodachadri. From these places, you can find bus services to Nittur village. From Nittur village, you can hire a private vehicle to get close to the falls. If you enjoy trekking, you can start your hike either from Kodachadri or Nittur.

Best time to visit Hidlumane Falls:

Summer (March to June): Temperatures can be quite warm, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The weather is generally dry, which might make the trek to the falls more strenuous. Water flow at the falls may be reduced due to lower rainfall, but the surrounding greenery is still vibrant. It’s a good time for trekking and exploring.

Monsoon (July to September): This season brings heavy rainfall, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The area experiences high humidity and frequent showers. The falls are at their most spectacular during the monsoon, with increased water flow and a dramatic cascade. The surrounding forest becomes lush and vibrant.

  Winter (October to February): Temperatures are cooler, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The weather is generally dry and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The clear skies and moderate weather create perfect conditions for sightseeing and photography. Winter is the best time for trekking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the falls. It’s also a good time for nature watching and photography, with clear views and comfortable temperatures.

Things to do at Hidlumane Falls:

Trekking: Explore the scenic trails leading to the falls. The trek takes you through lush forests and rocky paths, making for an adventurous journey. The route involves some rock climbing and traversing through streams, adding to the excitement.

Photography: Capture the stunning beauty of the cascading waterfalls and the surrounding landscape. The falls and the dense forest offer great opportunities for nature photography.

 Relaxing: Sit back and enjoy the tranquility of the falls. The soothing sound of the cascading water and the lush green surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere.

Camping: For the more adventurous, consider Kodachadri camping nearby (with proper permissions and safety measures). Spending a night under the stars with the sound of the falls in the background can be a memorable experience.

Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic near the falls. The serene environment and the sound of flowing water provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing meal with family or friends.