Most people must have come across the retro 80’s show Malgudi Days. If you haven’t, then it’s not wrong to say that you missed out on a fantastic memory in your childhood. The famous Malgudi mentioned in the show is the beautiful Agumbe. This place is a dripping enigma of greenery and exotic waterfalls. It’s a significant spot in Shimoga district, Karnataka, attracting bohemian backpackers and tourists by its richness in rivers and forest diversity. It is situated just at the junction of the three most famous places in Karnataka: Shimoga, Udupi, and Chikmagalur.
Agumbe is also known as the “Cherrapunji of South India.” So for a pluviophile, this might be a personal paradise as rain is the middle name of this beautiful getaway location. Since it is an off-beat location to visit, most visitors only have a vague idea of which places are there to explore in Agumbe. So we are here to guide you through the best 16 places to visit in Agumbe and what makes them unique.
1. The Sunset Point
The sunset spot is only a 10-minute walk from the main town. Most of the tourists will be visiting the sunset as the first part of their vacation, and the view is from the highest peak of the western ghats. What is more impressive than watching the sunset, leaving a variety of hues in the clouds?
The sunsets are at their best from November to January, since the sky will be more precise and less cloudy at this time. So take a break from the hurry-burry life of the cities to enjoy your evening in peace as you watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea. Since Malekadu lake is just a mile away from the sunset point, you can make a quick visit there, and if boating interests you, then they have just the right watersport ready for you.
2. Barkana Falls
Waterfalls are always the best way to refresh your aura and wash away all the stress and negativity you might have. Barkana waterfalls are located inside the Balehalli forest. Barkana falls is one of the prime locations to go to on the list of 16 places to visit in Agumbe.
The name Barkana has a backstory. The name Barka means “mouse deer.” And they are commonly found in the forests of Agumbe. Hence the name “Barkana Falls.” This is one of the biggest waterfalls in India and is formed by the Sita river in Karnataka. There are different kinds of trekking available in the location. And what is worth taking this trek is the Barkana viewpoint, where you can enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the western ghats. Do not miss out on this opportunity while you are visiting Karnataka.
3. Rainforest Research Station – Agumbe
Agumbe is most famous for its monsoon season. They receive heavy rainfall compared to other places, due to the presence of dense rainforests, and rivers. And one of the prime attractions of this place is the Agumbe rainforest research station (ARRS). It is India’s only rainforest research station, established in 2005 by Romulus Whitaker. It is an ecological research centre created for the sole purpose of rainforest preservation in India.
The station is situated inside the reserve forest in Agumbe, making it a significant tourist spot. ARRS is mainly known as the King Cobra capital, as they have a project extensively studying the snake species, King Cobra. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, do not miss out on this opportunity to get to know more about the rainforest culture and wildlife preservation in Agumbe.
4. Gopala Krishna Temple
If you are interested in exploring ancient religious shrines and art, then the Gopala Krishna temple must be on your list of 16 places to visit in Agumbe. It is situated in Kabbinale village in Agumbe, Karnataka. This temple holds historical value and is a must-visit place in Agumbe.
Gopala Krishna temple was built in the Hoysala period in sole dedication to Lord Krishna. The shrine is adorned with beautiful medieval sculptures and figures, which were made in the Hoysala period and serve as a historical reference for the visitors of the temple. There are 108 steps from the basement that lead to the sanctum. This symbolizes the 108 names of Lord Krishna. Make sure you visit this historical monument to walk down the medieval lane.
4. Onake Abbi Waterfalls
As intriguing as the name is, it has a meaning too. In Kannadiga, the word “onake” means “a long pole used for grinding a species.” And the only branch seen in the waterfall resembles Onake. Thus the birth of the name “Onake Abbi waterfalls.” It is a nearby waterfall in Agumbe, where you see the water trail gushing down in all its glory. It is one of the many waterfalls that Agumbe is blessed with. It involves a 5–6 km trek to reach the Onake Abbi waterfall location.
The natural beauty of the paths and the place is preserved as there is no well-paved path. You have to take the same path as the successor travellers, which is an experience in itself. If you are up for an adventure vacation, then this trek is just for you. So do not hesitate to add Onake Abbi waterfalls to the list of 16 places you want to visit in Agumbe.
5. Jogi Gundi Falls
While Agumbe is well-known for its waterfalls, Jogi Gundi Falls is another must-see during your trip to Karnataka. This amazing waterfall is situated on your way to Barkana Falls from Agumbe. The water source is pouring down from 20 feet to a large pool under the rocks. As all other waterfalls originate from rivers, Jogi Gundi Falls is a bit different in its origin.
This waterfall originates from a cave and streams through the hills. And later, it joins with the river Malapahaari. The whole location is very picturesque to capture on your camera. You can spend time here in the pool and have a nice refreshing water dip. For people who don’t want to spend a long time trekking but still want to have an experience, the Jogi Gundi Fall is a perfect match.
6. Kudlu Theertha Waterfalls
These waterfalls will be the picture-perfect backdrop you might be looking for to take home with you from the trip to Agumbe. Kudlu Theertha waterfall is the first waterfall on the river Sita. The falls are located on your way to Udupi from Agumbe. The water is cascading down from a 300-foot height to a pond that is considered to be holy because of an age-old saying that this place is where the sages used to meditate a thousand years ago. The falls are also called Sita Falls since they are the first waterfalls to originate from the river.
This rare beauty has been isolated in the forest for a very long time, and the only way you can witness these falls is by trekking. But rest assured, your efforts are not going to be disappointing because it’s a view worth watching. It is said that there’s another waterfall above Kudlu Theertha called Manga Theertha, but this is not accessible for visitors.
7. Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
As Agumbe is rich in its diverse greenery and wildlife, this sanctuary is a must add to your list of 16 places to visit in Agumbe. Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is situated below Agumbe and is one of the many underrated wildlife sanctuaries across India. The place was founded in 1974 and is a combined space of Balehalli Reserve Forest, Agumbe State Forest, Someshwara Reserved Forest, and Tombatlu Reserved Forest lands. The sanctuary was named after the deity god, Lord Someshwara, whose dedicated temple is located inside the sanctuary itself. Another interesting part of the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is the river, Sita.
It flows through the sanctuary. The Someshwara wildlife sanctuary is home to the river Sita’s natural campsite. It is hosted by the Karnataka forest department itself. So, on your visit to the sanctuary, you can also have a camping experience inside the forests of Agumbe. This wildlife sanctuary is home to many rare breeds of animals that will leave you stunned. Some of them are the Bonnet Macaque, Common Langur, Lion-Tailed Macaque, Spotted Deer, Tiger, and the list goes on. They are also home to a few exquisite bird species like Malabar Trogon, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Ceylon Frogmouth, and Malabar Pied Hornbill.
8. Kunchikal Falls
Do not miss visiting these beautiful waterfalls in Agumbe. The Kunchikal Falls are the highest waterfalls in India, cascading down from a 455-meter height. The origin of the falls is from the river Varahi, and it falls through the rocks near the great Hulikal Ghati Temple. Kunchikal Falls is the major source of water for the hydroelectric projects in Karnataka.
There is also a dam near Kunchikal named Mani Dam and an underground power generation station. The best time to visit the waterfalls is during the rainy season because, during the rest of the year, the falls are almost dry and shallow, but during the monsoon, the water gushing down in full force is indeed a delight to your eyes.
9. Jomlu Theertha Falls
Jomlu Theertha Falls is a must-go location on your Agumbe tour, because of its raw beauty and serene backdrop. This beauty is located inside the Someshwara wildlife sanctuary, falling from a height of 20 feet through a narrow terrain. This is also the second waterfall that originated from the Sita river, succeeding the first, the Kudlu Theertha Falls.
The chirping of forest birds and the calm and tranquil atmosphere can make you feel rejuvenated and stress-free. Since it is a small waterfall, you can take a nice little swim or bathe under nature’s water shower. This will be a refreshing experience on your Agumbe vacation.
10. Sita River
There is no way that you can come on a trip to Agumbe and leave without going to the Sita River once. And while you are at it, why not give a chance to some adventure sports? Yes. It’s all about river rafting. Your trip would not be complete if you missed the river rafting in one of the most popular rafting spots in Karnataka.
If you are an adventure junky, then this will be the perfect spot for you. And also, if you don’t want to miss out on the scenic beauty, there are a lot of campgrounds and other viewpoints near the Sita river where you can visit and drench in the natural beauty of Agumbe.
11. Achakanya Falls
If you are obsessed with exploring the unexplored parts of Karnataka, Achakanya Falls could be the perfect spot for you. These waterfalls flow from the river Sharavathi through the valleys of the western ghats’ dense forests. The height of this waterfall is about 6 to 7 ft. In the monsoon season, it is indeed a pleasure to watch as water gushes down to the little pond, which is surrounded by lush greenery, and the visitors instantly strike a chord with the beauty of this place. It is a great choice for people who have a soft spot for trekking, as you can only experience this beauty by reaching out to the location.
12. Kudremukh National Park
Kudremukh national park is one of the famous spots to add to your list of 16 places to visit in Agumbe. Kudremukh National Park is a tourist spot near Agumbe. The park is home to more than 200 rare bird species. The Kudremukh peak got its name because of the unique shape it possesses.
Kudremukh means “horse face.” Since the mountain peak was in the same shape, it was named Kudremukh. It’s not just for birds; it’s a habitat for wildlife beings like leopards, deer, and much more. If trekking intrigues you, the Kudremukh trek is an underrated trekking haven. You can have a whole different trekking experience in Kudremukh.
13. Kundadri Hill
Kundadri Hill in Agumbe comes under Theerthahalli province in Shimoga. The peak is almost 3,000 feet above sea level. People usually go for a challenging experience here because of the dense trekking paths and the natural beauty in its raw form. Make sure that you don’t go trekking in the monsoon season, as it will be a slippery road to the destination. There was a Jain settlement at the top of the hill here, and the place is named after the Theethankara Kundakundacharya. Do visit this beautiful place on your visit to Agumbe.
14. Doddamane – The House In Malgudi Days
Now, this might seem like an interesting choice to you. The explanation of why this should be a prime spot for your vacation to Agumbe is that, as we all know, the evergreen show Malgudi Days was shot in the village of Agumbe.
Visiting the locations where this beautiful work of art was created is, therefore, an appealing idea. Even after decades of the release of this show, tourists still find their way to the main spots they have watched and loved in the show, and without Doddamane, the show would have been incomplete. This was Swami’s (the main character of Malgudi Days) home, and it is open for homestays. So, if you want to live your childhood dream by staying and enjoying the vibes of Agumbe, do visit Doddamane.
15. Agumbe Lake
The Agumbe Lake is one of the major attractions in this cosy little village of Shimoga. They are located near the Agumbe rainforest checkpoint. The ideal time to come here is in the morning because it will be beautifully foggy and it is a delight to watch the lake in such awesome weather.
To preserve the earthy goodness of this place, the residents here are keen on keeping the place clean and away from all kinds of pollution. Different water organisms are thriving here, like fish, different types of swans, etc. If you wish to feed the swans in the lake, you can also do that. Make sure you come at the right time, which is when the gate opens. This will save you a lot of time to explore other tourist attractions.
Tinton Resort and water park is a haven for folks who want to have a nice getaway on the riverbanks of Karnataka. Tinton is surrounded by lush green gardens and reserve forests and will be the perfect spot for you to enjoy your vacation while enjoying the earthy greenery. The highlight of Tinton resorts is the special water amusement park, which straight-up brings the child in you. Hurry up and book your slot now and enjoy your holiday getaway with Tinton.
