Dare to explore the Jog Falls
Formed due to the Sharavathi River in the Shimoga region of the south Indian state of Karnataka, the Jog Falls is one of the highest falls in the country, which is ranked eight. Cascading from an altitude of 253 m that comes to 829 ft, it is the highest untiered waterfall in the secular country. The falls’ only parent is the Sharavathi River that starts at Ambuthirtha located in the Thirthahalli Taluk from where it turns northwest via the Western Ghats and meets the Arabian Sea at the location called Honavar.
In Asia, especially in India, there exists a myriad of waterfalls that fall from high altitudes. However, among all these falls, the Jog Falls refers to the untiered plunge that means it falls straight without streaming on the rocks. Therefore, it certainly is entitled as the highest untiered cascade in India. As per the waterfall database, the falls proudly obtained 83 picturesque points, which is near to what the Angel falls have.
The segmented Jog Falls is undoubtedly one of the top tourist highlights, which is known also by other names like the Gerusoppe Falls, Jogada Gundi, and Gersoppa Falls. This 250 m waterfall enlarges to a vast volume when the rains facilitate it in doing so. The magnificent Jog Falls is unquestionably the striking natural wonder that is as rich as its stunning scenery.
The water of the falls plunge down in four unique falls creating a vista of awe-inspiring grandeur whose impact is drastically heightened due to the untamed and wonderful nature around coated via a treasure of copious vegetation. First, the Raja (King) Falls drops in a steady vertical column, which is 830 feet deep. On its way, in the middle, it meets the Roarer Falls that hurries down to a wide cup followed by a violent rush at 45 degrees angle. The third fall is called as the Rocket that spurts downwards as an array of jets. On the other hand, the fourth one is the Rani (Queen) Falls that is referred to as a cascade sliding calmly above the mountain side in a foam layer.
Surrounding tourist attractions
Honnemaradu Island:
This is nestled on the river’s back waters. The island was created from the Linganmakki Dam’s water and is today popular for many water sports. The dam is also worth visiting because of the active Mahatma Gandhi hydro-electric plant since 1948.
Tunga Anicut Dam:
This is located at a distance of 15 kilometres from Shimoga across the river Tungabadra. This is where you can have the boat trips on the lake.
Lion Tiger Reserve:
Located at a distance of 12 km, this is really a worthy place for nature lovers.
Sagara:
Located at a distance of 30 km from the falls, this is where you will encounter many ancient temples.
Siddapura:
This is a small hamlet in Western Ghats, which offers stunning views of the Sahyadri ranges.
Sirsi:
This is a hamlet-cum-hill station that stands proudly flanked by emerald forests and many more falls. This is also the place where the Ganesh Festival is celebrated with much joy. Lord Ganesha’s black marble idol is worshipped during this festival every year.
Location
The Jog Falls is in Shimoga District – 30 km from Sagara, 379 km from Bangalore, and 104 km away from Shimoga.
Best Time
Among all the seasons, the rainy season is the best time to visit the Jog Falls. Ideally, the time from August to December is just perfect to explore the falls with the thundering noise and high cascades.
Accommodations
You can be assured of a comfortable stay as you take up a trip of the Jog Falls. There are many hotels in the area where a mix of traditional and contemporary traits is just remarkable. A few major hotels here are:
Sharavati Tourist Home
Tunga Tourist Home
Inspection Bungalow
Bombay Bungalow that offers a stunning view
Jog Falls Guest House
Reaching the falls
By Air:
The close by airport is Bangalore at 379 km.
By Rail:
From Bangalore, catch a train to alight at Sagara from where you need to catch a bus to reach the falls.
By Road:
From Bangalore and Sagara, many buses are available.
