Amboli Waterfall - It Is Rightly Called The 'QUEEN' Of Maharastra

AMBOLI WATERFALL

AT

SINDHUDURG

Source

The beautiful hill-station of Amboli is rightly called the ‘queen’ of Maharashtra; such is its natural splendour. Famous among environmentalists as a precious ecological hotspot, it is cool, calm, serene and enriched with all the treasures that the world of flora and fauna can bestow upon it. Located in the princely state of Sawantwadi, Amboli is located on the ridge of the Western Ghats and is particularly majestic during the monsoon when impromptu waterfalls gush down the hilly terrain. 

 Amboli is situated at an altitude of 690 meters above the sea level and its amazing topography comprises dense forest area with a large number of waterfalls which increase in number during the rains. In fact, it is the heavy rainfall of an average of 750 centimeters per year which results in such thick growth of trees and plants along the hillsides. 

The hill-station was a favourite with the British rulers and it is said that Colonel Westrop was the one who took special efforts in developing this place. Winter is actually the perfect season to visit Amboli and some of the points that are a ‘must see’ include the Nangartas Waterfall, Hiranyakeshi, Sea View Point, and Mahadevgad. Kavlesaad Point is another interesting point from where you can get a view of the Sahyadri ranges.Located 529 kilometers from Mumbai and well-connected by road, the railway station nearest to it is at Sawantwadi Road on the Konkan railway line while the closest airport is at Dabolim in Goa.

However, for those who would like to add a little more mysticism to their visit, choose to go during the monsoon season. The entire region gets covered with a dense fog during several times a day. It is then that you can actually experience the power of silence and how nature makes it own music. Meanwhile, don’t forget to stop by at the Hiranyakeshi Mandir. It is from here that the river Hiranyakeshi originates. 

The approach road is rough but the destination provides a wonderful experience. You would in fact want to spend hours at this calm and peaceful spot. The river ultimately flows through Karnataka where it is known as Ghataprabha. There’s also a small temple dedicated to Parvati.

For lodging MTDC offers a perfect rest house with a facility for meals. There are of course other hotels and restaurants too at Amboli which has emerged as a popular tourist destination over the years. What makes this place special is that it is very rich in flora and fauna and you will in all probability be able to spot wild boars, antelopes, deer, monkeys and bison and maybe a leopard too in case you happen to be at the right spot at the right time. 

Amboli is also a draw with enthusiastic bird-watchers who come here to glimpse and photograph various species like the Hornbill, Paradise Flycatcher, Drongo, Yellow-Browed Bulbul, Red-Whiskered Bulbul, Crimson-Backed Sunbird, Orange-Headed Ground Thrush, Indian Schimitar Babbler, and a lot more. A huge number of butterflies, frogs and reptiles make the forest their home too. Some of the trees and plants found here include Hirda, Ain, Anjan, Shikekai, Mango, Fern, etc.

Distance from Mumbai is 492 kms.

By Air

The nearest airport is Dabolim

By Train

The nearest railway station is Sawantwadi road on Konkan railway.

By Road

Amboli is well connected by road from Sawantwadi, Belgaum and Kolhapur. Number of buses ply from Pune and Mumbai to Amboli.

Source: MTDC

Shivanasamudra Waterfall - It Has Two Large Streams

SHIVANASAMUDRA WATERFALL

Shivanasamudra is a famous waterfall situated in Mandya District of Karnataka State. This is one of the best waterfalls near Bangalore and also among popular one day trip from Bangalore. These waterfalls are also known as Siva Samudram, literally meaning Shiva's Sea. Shivanasamudra is a segmented waterfall with several parallel stream formed adjacent to each other.

Situated on River Kaveri, Shivanasamudra is among the popular Tourist places in Karnataka. The island of Shivanasamudra divides Kaveri River into two parts that form two waterfalls, one is Gaganachukki and the other is Bharachukki. Gaganachukki and Barachukki Falls are collectively called as Shivanasamudra Falls though Gaganachukki is most commonly represented as Shivanasamudra Falls. This place offers breathtaking sight in the peak monsoons.

Gaganachukki includes a huge horsetail shaped waterfall dropping from a height of 90 m and two large parallel streams that cascade down through a rocky bed from a height of over 320 feet. The currents here are quite strong and the gorge is quite deep. So, swimming is not permitted here. Asia's first hydroelectric power station was set up in the downstream of the falls in the year 1905. The power generated here was initially used in Kolar Gold Fields. The power station is situated near a Dargah, from where you can have excellent views of the other side of Gaganachukki.

Bharachukki is situated at distance of approximately one km from the Gaganachukki (Dargah point). The cascading edge of Bharachukki is a little wider and more popular than that of Gaganachukki. Barachukki is a cascading fall with a height of 70 m forming several streams through the wide rocky formations establishing superb natural beauty. 

There are well laid plight of about 200 steps that lead down to the waterfall. The way down to the waterfall is relatively safe as it fenced with railings and there are benches to sit on and relax. An interesting way to watch the beauty of the waterfall is to take a coracle ride to the mouth of the magnificent waterfall. Barachukki also has a section of waterfall where the water flows less in volume and an ideal spot to play and enjoy a bath under the waterfall in this area. 

Though geographically both the falls are adjacent, the viewpoints of these falls are about 15 km away. The Gaganachukki waterfalls are best viewed from the Shivanasamudra watch tower. There is another approach to the Gaganachukki falls from the Dargah Hazrath Mardane Gaib which provides the best view of the right branch of the falls. Reaching the bottom of the waterfall from the watch tower side is not possible as the area is fenced and no one is allowed to go near the water. There are also warnings posted near the fence that caution visitors against crossing the barrier and proceeding to the water from that side of the falls.

July to January is the best time while August to October is the peak season.

At a distance of 130 km from Bangalore & 81 km from Mysore,

By Air

Nearest Airport: Bangalore - Bengaluru International Airport (175 Kms)

By Train

Nearest Train Station: Mysore Junction (81 Kms)

Bangalore City Railway Station (130 Kms)

By Bus

Nearest Bus Station: Sivanasamudra (0 Kms)

Tallest Waterfall In Maharastra Of India - Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall

Tallest Waterfall In Maharastra Of India - Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall

Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall (tallest waterfall of India) might be a very apt place for you. The waterfall is situated in district of Satara in western Maharashtra. It is about 5 km away from Kas Flower Valley.  The lush green mountains and the flowers in nearby flower valley please your senses. The pleasant weather actually relaxes you like anything. But the star attraction of this place is tranquility The place is simply deserted and there are no hawkers, unwanted guides and cameramen to disturb you.

At the outset, when you see this waterfall from a distance then it doesn’t seem to be a waterfall also. You just see a white thread on the rocky background of Sahyadris. But when you reach near the waterfall and just have a look at it, and then you understand the enormity of it. 

The roaring water flows at very high speed and you can’t hear anything when you are in the vicinity of the fall. The height of this waterfall is 1840 feet and it falls from a straight cliff. The water for waterfall comes from the river Urmodi. It is origin of river Urmodi.

The waterfall is perennial in nature and hence you will hardly find any day when it’s gone dry (flows 12 months in a year).

Now a day we hear a lot about the news of Kas Plateau/ Flower Valley being declared to be a world heritage site. The place is visited by UNESCO representatives as a part of observations of Flower Valley. But it’s a surprise that this place remained unnoticed by the media or trekkers or tourists. 

Most recently it came into news when a Marathi news channel had telecast a documentary on this waterfall. Maharashtra government has proposed the project named ‘Mini Mahabaleshwar’ which includes building tourists facilities at this area and constructing proper roads to reach this place. But as of now nothing has started.

So, it is a perfect weekend destination for all age groups. Just come here, enjoy the greenery, have a delicious Maharashtrian food in the silky grain farms and most importantly forget everything in the tranquility of this place. While you go back to your places you will carry a hell lot of energy and enthusiasm with you.

The 2 days trip will rejuvenate you and will help you reconnect to yourself. So, all are invited, the waterfall is waiting for you.

This is a place nearby to Sajjangadh.  Marathi Saint Ramdas Swami stayed at Sajjangadh for many years and did his meditation there. Religious people visit this place to bow before his Samadhi. The Great Maratha King Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj also visited this place many times to discuss various issues and take blessings of  Saint Ramdas Swami.

Some details of the surrounding area are given for your reference.

Flora & Fauna:     Variety of flora and fauna found in surrounding dense forest of Bhambavli.  Scare variety of flowers found in the forest.  We can find different kind of plants and tress.

Ayurvedic/medicinal/herbal plants: Some plants are named as follows – Adulsa (useful for Cough and Cold) Shikekai (used for Shampoo), kadulims (used for various diseases), creeper used by diabetic patients, Hirda (medical pizza (for colour) murud stick, Ashwgand, etc.

Fruits:  You will find trees like mango, black berry, banana, Jamun (Black plum), guava, jackfruit, sweet lime, lemon, cherry trees etc.

Flowers:   You will find flowers like marigold,  shoe flower, eared jasmine, champak (chafa), rose, night shade, vinca – rose, sunflower etc.

Trees :   Fig tree, mango tree, neem, bamboo, aloe (korfad), Jambool, toddy palm, basil, Nilgiri, cactus (Nivdung), peepul (Pimpal), Jack-fruit tree, babul, banian tree (Ved), creepers/climbing plants, teak etc.

Birds :   Cuckoo, crow, hen, kife, owl, sparrow, peenit (titvi), raven (dom crow), parrot, nightingale myna, peacock, peahen (landor) woddpeeker, quail (lava).

Domestic Animals:  Dog, Cow, buffalo, bull, groat, calf etc

Wild Animals:  Iguana (Ghorpad) bear, fox, bisan, hyena (tavas), monkey, mongoose, boar, tiger dear, deer, squirrel, snail, etc.

Animals in water:  Crab, frog, fish,etc.

Reptiles   :  Snakes, lizard, scorpion, Chamelon, etc.

Insects:   Fire fly (Kajva), Spider, earthworm, centipede (Ghon), leech (jalu), Locust (Tol), grass-hopper  termit, scorpion, caterpillar etc.

Nearby other places to visit:

KAS FLOWER VALLEY in the month of July to October.
Bamnoli & Tapole – for boating.
Sajjangadh Fort – Samadhi of Saint Ramdas.
Thoseghar Waterfall.
Chalkewadi for Windmills,.
Mahabaalleshwar – Hill Station
Pachgani – Hill Station
Wai – Ganpati
Gondavale – Samadhi of Saint Gondvalekar Maharaj.
Koyna-Chandoli Tiger Sanctuary
Precautions to be taken by Tourists while visiting  Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall.

Visit only between 8.00 am to 5.00 pm every day.
Avoid visiting this place in heavy rains
Prohibited to eat non-veg one km nearby the waterfall
This is plastic free zone; don’t throw plastic bags, water bottles etc.
Prohibited consumption of Alcohol
Swimming is also prohibited (Ponds are quite deep)
Trekking Precautions:

Wear appropriate footwear
Rock faces can get very slippery.
Streams as well as ponds are quite deep.
Don’t eat leaves, flowers and fruits, mushroom etc. unless you are sure that they are safe.  They could be poisonous.
Be agile and cautious, as there are chances of encounters with reptiles like snakes, insects. Wild animals like tiger, bear etc.
Route to reach Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall:

By Air 

Pune is nearest place to reach to Satara and then to Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall.  From Pune you have to go by road to Satara – Kas – From Kas to Tambi – Bhambavli.

By Road:

  (1) Satara to Kas, Kas to Tambi – Bhambavli

 (2)  Mahabaleshwar to Tapola, Bambnoli- Kas,  Kas to Tambi – Bhambavli.

Accommodation at Satara & Bhambavli

The place is far from developmental activities. Hence you will not find any hotels in this area. You will have to stay in hotels at Satara. You may prefer to stay at village Bhambavli in their traditional homes; this stay will give you a chance to live a rural life. You will see how these people live and earn their bread and butter. The quality of food at these homes will also be delicious that you cannot resist it. Fresh vegetables, fruits will enhance your spirits. And all this is available at nominal cost.

MOST IMPOROTANT:

Not to enter dense forest without a Guide.  Guide is available in Village Bhambavli at reasonable rate.  Currently they take Rs.200/- per day.  One whole day is required to be spent to enjoy at Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall.

Endearingly Said To Be The Niagara Falls Of India-Hogenakkal

HOGENAKKAL WATERFALLS

AT

DHARMAPURI

Hogenakkal, the majestic waterfalls, is often called Cauvery by the populace of Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri districts, where it is situated. Whenever foreigners think of the comforts of having a healthy oil massage near the river bed, Hogenakkal will be the location which would linger in their minds.

 Hogenakkal is endearingly said to be the Niagara of India'. Hogeakkal is surrounded by Melagiri Hills in the backdrops and 750 feet above sea level.

The way to Hogenekkal falls is naturally endowed with beauteous Mulberry fields, titanic-sized Protector Deities (Aiyanars) made of terracotta, the gushig sound of river Cauvery and bountiful of vegetation.

 Travelling 46 kms from Hogenakkal one can reach Dharmapuri district and the mighty Hogenakkal shares its borders with Karnataka.The two Kannada words 'Hoge' means 'Smoke' and 'kal' means 'rocks' give meaning to the word Hogenakkal as Smoky Rocks.

 Located around 150 kms from Banglore, the mind-bogging Hogenakkal is absolutely in the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. During rainy Seasons the lush green ambience of Hogenakkal presents a visual feast to the tourists pouring in.

The unique sight of the tall trees mounting upon the small island-like mounds clustered with giant rocks on the way and the fiercely flowing river pounding upon it makes even the dull hearts go awe-stricken.

The river water is said to have some special powers as it travels through the forests filled with herbal plants and shrubs. It is quite stupendous to see the tender-aged boys showcasing their diving skills.

They exhibit their diving skills for a mere Rs 5 from the spectators. The courageous young children dive from tall altitudes which seem to be much more surprising for the spectators watching along the way.

The circular basket boats are enveloped in black color plastic sheets. The coracle ride through the river leaves the tourists with overwhelming joy and fear as the jumping and bouncing round–shaped boat makes the traveler feel as if the boat is going to capsize.

By Air

The closest airport is 180.9 km away in Bangalore. There are international and domestic flights landing in Bangalore International Airport. These flights can be quite affordable if booked early. So  Hogenakkal travel if you want flights has to be done by first taking a flight to Bangalore and then taking a bus, taxi or Hogenakkal car rental.

By Train

The closest railways station to Hogenakkal is Salem which is 53 km away. So when you are looking for Hogenakkal trains, keep in mind that the closest train station you will get to is Salem which is well-connected to other cities in India. There will be at least one train every day leaving to Salem Junction. This is the best train to Hogenakkal route to take and if you book early the tickets will cost less. Make your Hogenakkal travel as convenient as possible by choosing the best train route for you.

By Road

Though there are a number of private buses that travel to Hogenakkal KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) is the most common one used to and from Karnataka.