Arasinagundi Falls: An Uninterrupted Beauty in Karnataka’s Western Ghats

Located inside the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, in the Udupi district of Karnataka’s Western Ghats, Arasinagundi is a hidden gem, also known as Arasina Makki Falls. The history behind its name lies in the yellow (translates to “arasina” in Kannada) colour of the water when it hits the ground. Situated 4-5 km from Kollur, reaching Arasinagundi Falls requires a trek of 1-2 kms through the dense forest, rewarding the visitors with raw and unspoiled landscapes. 

The path of this moderately challenging hike is vibrant with a variety of fauna and flora, colourful birds, and butterflies. 

Continue reading this article to know about the best things to do in Arasingundi Falls, the best time to visit, how to reach, practical safety tips, and a 2-day itinerary you can follow for a seamless journey. 

Why You Must Visit Arasinagundi Falls?

For the thrilling adventurous trek experience, natural beauty, and wildlife spotting, Arasinagundi is a perfect destination. Far away from the commercialised places, it is an offbeat spot, known for its dense forest and tranquil environment. 

Here’s why Arasinagundi waterfalls should be at the top of your bucket list: 

• Hotspot for Rich Biodiversity, Fauna, and Flora 
• Adventurous Trekking Destination
• Uninterrupted Natural Beauty 
• Ideal for Swimming and Relaxing 
• Proximity to Nearby Attractions 
• Perfect for Nature Photographers and Birdwatchers 

DISCLAIMER!! 

The Arasinagundi Falls is permanently CLOSED NOW, following a fatal incident in 2023. The decision was prompted by the death of a person filming a video near the falls. 

Best Things to Do at Arasinagundi Falls for an Unforgettable Experience 

Some of the best things to enjoy at Arasinagundi waterfall trek involve trekking through the dense forest, enjoying a picnic with friends and family, dipping into the cool natural pools, and enjoying photography and wildlife spotting.  

Here are some of the best things to do at Arasinagundi Waterfalls: 

1. Trekking through the Dense Forest: The trek trail begins 3-5 km away from Kollur, at the base of Kodachadri Hills. The journey to the falls is surrounded by thick forests and the uneven terrain of the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary. The raw beauty of the Western Ghats and the high-volume waterfall make the trek adventurous. 
   • Trek Difficulty Level: Moderate 
   • Time: 2-3 hours for the round trip

Important Note 

Since Arasinagundi Waterfalls is located inside the protected Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, a permit to enter is mandatory. 

Visitors can acquire the permit from the Forest Department Check Post (RFO Office) near the Kollur Bus Stand. Entry Fee is INR 200.

2. Picnicking With Family and Friends: Although Arasinagundi is not a commercial picnic spot, you can take a pit stop after trekking to enjoy lunch and snacks, and spend some leisure time relaxing. The backdrop of the waterfall creates a peaceful environment to spend leisure time. 

WARNING! 

Do not litter around and leave the waste behind. Respect the environment and preserve the natural beauty.

3. Nature Photography: Arasinagundi waterfalls is an amazing place for photography enthusiasts, known for its dense forests, paddy fields, and canopy trees. The photographers can capture the natural scenery, cascading waterfall, and the diverse fauna and flora of the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary.  
4. Plunging and Swimming into the Waters: The base of Arasinagundi Waterfalls is surrounded by natural pools, ideal for swimming and relaxation. Take a dip in the natural cold water, perfect for unwinding after an adventurous trek. 
5. Wildlife Spotting and Birdwatching: The dense forests around the Arasinagundi waterfalls are brimming with diverse fauna, including sloth bears, jackals, deer, and wild dogs. This place is home to varying birds, such as myna, bulbul, hornbill, kingfishers, flycatchers, and more, making it perfect for birdwatchers. 

Best Time to Visit Arisinagundi Falls 

October-February, that is, the winter season, is the best time to visit Arasinigundi Falls, as the weather is favourable for outdoor activities and the Kodachadri Hill trek. 

Here’s a complete weather guide: 

Peak Season (Best Time)	October-February Things to Enjoy: Trekking Sightseeing Picnicking Photography
Shoulder Season (Moderate Time)	July-September Things to Enjoy: Photography Exploring nearby attractions
Off Season (Low Time)	March-June Things to Enjoy: Trekking Outdoor exploration

How to Reach Arasinagundi Falls From Bangalore?

Travelling by air is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Arasinigundi Falls. However, trains and roads are other comfortable and budget-friendly options that you can explore: 

Here’s everything you need to know about reaching Arasinigundi: 

1. By Air 

The nearest airport to Arasingundi Falls is the Mangalore Airport (IXE). The flight journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours from Kempegowda International Airport to Mangalore Airport.

Journey Ahead: Take a taxi from the Mangalore Airport to Kollur. 

• Distance from IXE to Kollur: 100 km 
• Time to Reach: 2-3 hours. 
• Hire a local vehicle or a jeep from Kollur to reach Arisinagundi Falls (Approx 5 km, 10-12 minutes) 

Route: 

Kempegowda Airport (BLR) >> Mangalore Airport (IXE) >> Kollur >> Arasinagundi Falls.

2. By Train 

Kundapura Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Arasinagundi Waterfalls. The journey from Bangalore City Railway Station to Kundapura Station takes approximately 8 hours. (430-435 km) 

Journey Ahead: Hire a local vehicle to reach Kollur. 

• Distance from Kundapura to Kollur: 40-45 km approx 
• Time to Reach: 1 hour approximately   
• Take a local taxi or jeep to reach Arasinagundi Waterfalls from Kollur. 

3. By Road 

Hire a private bus or board the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to reach Kollur directly. From Kollur, hire a taxi or a jeep for Arasinagundi Falls. 

• Total Distance: 369-370 km 
• Time: 9-10 hours 

4 Incredible Places to Visit Near Arasinagundi Waterfalls 

Maravanthe Beach, Kollur Sri Mookambika Devi Temple, Kodachadri Hills, and Kunchikal Falls are some of the best places to visit near Arasina Gundi Falls. Visitors can seek blessings at the temple and spend their leisure time at these best places to visit in India. 

1. Maravanthe Beach 

Maravanthe, which literally translates to “sunrise on the west coast”, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Karnataka. The coastline of this beach runs through the National Highway 17 (NH17), surrounded by the Arabian Sea and the Souparnika River, amidst the backdrop of Kodachadri Hill. The beach is highly popular for adventure water sports, such as jet skiing, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, sunbathing, and swimming. 

Timings	Open 24/7
Entry Ticket	Free
Distance	Approx 43-45 km (1-1.5 hours)

2. Kollur Sri Mookambika Devi Temple 

Situated in the Kollur district of Udupi, Karnataka, Sri Mookambika Devi Temple is known for worshipping Adi Shakti (Absolute Power). Located on the banks of the Souparnika River, the temple is believed to be the embodiment of the deities Parvati, Mahalakshmi, and Saraswati. The temple is surrounded by lush Western Ghats and is known for its Dravidian Kerala-style architecture, holding immense importance for Shakta and Shaiva traditions. 

Timings	Morning: 5:00 am to 1:30 pm  Evening: 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Entry Fee	Free
Distance	Approx 4.5 km (15-20 minutes)

3. Kodachadri Hills 

Located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, Kodachadri Hills are known for their adventurous trekking, paddy fields, and lush rolling grasslands. Rising to 1343 meters, the trekking route of Kodachadri Hills is also the base for the Sri Mookambika Temple. The temple is surrounded by the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna, including Malabar giant squirrels, barking deer, and wild boars. 

Timings	Hiking: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm  Jeep Ride: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fee	INR 200 per person  Requires a forest department permit for independent trekking
Distance	Approx 37 km (1.5-2 hours)

4. Kunchikal Falls 

Also famous as India’s highest waterfall, Kunchikal Falls is a tiered marvel, cascading 455 metres down the rocky path and is one of the best must-visit destinations. 

This hidden gem, far away from commercial tourism, harnesses a hydro-electric plant and is widely popular among trekkers for its serene landscape of the Western Ghats. However, it falls within a restricted zone with limited access due to security reasons. 

Timings	7:00 am to 5:00 pm
Entry Fee	Free
Distance	Approx 75 km (2-2.5 hours)

3 Best Stays Near Arasinagundi Falls 

Hotel Mookambika Palace, Amruthavana Nature Resort, and Paradise Wild Hills Resort are some of the best stays, located in proximity to Arasinagundi Waterfalls. 

Here’s everything you need to know: 

1. Hotel Mookambika Palace 

Located in Kollur, Karnataka, Hotel Mookambika Palace is a premium 3-star property. This stay is famous for its spacious and deluxe rooms, 24/7 check-ins, and a pure-vegetarian hotel. It is located 300 metres away from the Mookambika Temple, making it easy to explore the nearby areas. 

• Location: Car Street, Kundapura, Taluk, Kollur, Karnataka 576220
• Amenities: Free Parking, Airport Transfers, Luggage Storage, Restaurant, Garden. 
• Distance From Hotel to Waterfall: 4.5-5 km (10-15 minutes)  

2. Amruthavana Nature Resort 

Situated at the base of Kodachadri Peak, Amruthavana Resort Hotel is known for its affordable stays, starting at just INR 1400. The visitors can get various rooms, such as Arceanut tent stay, cottage stay, dormitory stay, and more. Visitors can also rent jeeps and tourist guides for exploring nearby; however, there are separate charges for this. 

• Location: 1/1, Kattinahole, Mattikai Post, Nagara Hobli, Taluk, Hosanagara, Kodachadri, Karnataka 577452
• Amenities: Swimming Pool, Camp Fire, Light Music, Non-Veg Food, Mud Kabaddi, Stream Walk. 
• Distance From Hotel to Waterfall: 29-30 km (50 minutes) 

3. Paradise Wild Hills Resort 

Paradise Wild Hills Resort is one of the best 3-star hotels located in Kollur, Karnataka. The hotel features both deluxe and standard rooms, 2 distinct restaurants, and a versatile event hall. It is situated close to the Kodachadri hills, making it easy for visitors to reach Arasina Gundi Falls. 

• Location: Paradise Wild Hills Resort, Kollur, Kollūru, India Kollur, Kodachadri Road, Gowrikere, Nittur, Karnataka 577452
• Amenities: Deluxe and Standard Rooms, F&B Discounts, Event Halls. 
• Distance From Hotel to Waterfall: 22-24 km (40-50 minutes)

2-Day Itinerary for Arasinagundi Falls: A Perfect Travel Plan 

Reaching Arasina Gundi Falls offers a perfect mix of adventure, trekking, and leisure. Planning a trip and a structured itinerary goes a long way. The 2-day itinerary will help you explore Arasinagundi comprehensively. 

Here’s a 2-day itinerary that you can follow: 

1. Day 1: Trek to Arasinagundi Falls 

• Morning: Begin your trek to the Arasinagundi Falls from your homestay. 
• Afternoon: Reach the waterfall and take a plunge in the cold water. Relax in nature and enjoy a picnic. 
• Evening: Make a pit stop to have lunch and snacks, and trek back to your homestay. 
• Night: Enjoy a bonfire and catch up on dinner to try authentic South Indian food. 

2. Day 2: Exploring the Nearby Attractions 

• Morning: Head to Kollur Sri Mookambika Devi Temple early in the morning to escape the crowd. 
• Afternoon: Begin your journey towards Maravanthe Beach or Kunchikal Falls. 
• Evening: Spend some leisure time at the beach or waterfalls. Enjoy the recreational activities and witness the sunset. 
• Night: Begin your journey back towards your city.

Practical Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

It is important to be mindful of certain safety tips while visiting a waterfall. Avoid overstuffing and pack the necessities; do not litter the environment, and take necessary precautions. 

Be mindful of the things mentioned below: 

• The best time to visit is from October to February, as the weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor exploration. Avoid trekking during the monsoon season as the trail is usually slippery. 
• Pack sturdy trekking shoes, safety gear, warm clothes, and a zip-lock bag for electronics. Don’t forget to pack light snacks and water, as there are no eateries or small shops nearby. 
• Physical fitness and good stamina are essential for this moderately challenging trek to reach the waterfall. Avoid visiting if physically unfit. 
• Respect nature and avoid littering in a public space. Keep the used packets and bottles back in your bags. 
• Avoid plunging into the water directly, as it can be dangerous for your life. Stick to the marked trails and paths. 

Wrapping Up! 

To conclude, Arasingundi Falls is a perfect location if you’re seeking a tranquil escape from the hassle of everyday life. Known for its dense forests, crowd-free surroundings, and adventurous trek, this place is a must-visit destination. 

Apart from the waterfall, visitors can enjoy picnicking, trekking, and nature photography. So, whether you’re seeking an adventure or a peaceful escape, Arasinagundi is a must-visit destination.