Barachukki Falls-shivamsamundram-dji mini 3 pro Drone

Barachukki Falls-shivamsamundram-dji mini 3 pro Drone

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Barachukki and Gaganachukki are two waterfalls situated near the island town of Shivanasamudra in the Mandya district of Karnataka.

The waterfalls are created by river Cauvery that runs down a 75 metre gorge before it divides into two branches that flow around the island of Shivanasamudra. The two branches (eastern & western branches) flow through deep ravines on either side of the island before plunging in two different places a few kilometres apart to form the Barachukki and Gaganachukki waterfalls

The waterfalls are located at a distance of about 139 km from Bangalore and about 60 km from Mysore.

The eastern branch of the waterfall is known as Barachukki while the western branch is known as Gaganachukki. Barachukki and Gaganachukki waterfalls are together known as the Shivanasamudra Falls.

Shivanasamudra literally means Shiva’s Sea. These two waterfalls are considered to be among the best 100 waterfalls of the world.

The area near the waterfalls is famous for being the location of Asia’s first hydro-electric power station that was set up in the year 1902 and is still functional.

Barachukki waterfalls

The segmented Barachukki Falls are a graceful one and the more popular one among the two falls. This jagged crashing cascade of water is also the wider one among the two falls.

The waterfall has a height of about 69 metres. There is a narrow flight of about 200 concrete 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 for a while when you get tired.

The waterfall is a vibrant sight to watch during the monsoon season when the volume of water gushing down the rocks increases substantially. The waterfall can be enjoyed from close quarters as there are shallow areas near the place where the water plunges.

Visitors can get into the shallow water. However, due caution must be exercised as there are no life guards available near the waterfall and accidents can prove to be fatal.

An interesting way to watch the beauty of the waterfall is to take a coracle ride to the mouth of the magnificent waterfall. The mist formed from the water plunging at great speed from the cliff above is a great sight.

Barachukki also has a section of waterfall where the water flows less in volume. The place is ideal for adventure seekers as they can stand and enjoy a batbh under the waterfall in this area. Reaching this section of the falls is an adventure in itself as the section can be reached only after crossing a narrow stream.

The waist deep stream has very strong water current and the river bed is full of extremely slippery rock bed. As such, it must be crossed carefully.

Best time to visit the Barachukki and Gaganachukki Falls

The Barachukki & Gaganachukki Falls are perennial and can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time to visit the waterfalls is during the monsoon season that extends from June to September. During this season the waterfalls are in full swing and the view is a gorgeous one.

Information for visitors

Barachukki & Gaganachukki Falls are separated by just a few kilometres of distance. This distance can be covered by a 15 or 20 minutes’ drive. Both the waterfalls are excellent picnic spots.

The waterfalls are open for public visit from 6 am to 6 pm. A security check post at Shivanasamudra prevents visitors from visiting the waterfalls after 6 pm in the evening.

The area near the waterfall is known to have wild ants and visitors must be careful to not get bitten by them. There are a few small shops offering snacks near the waterfalls. Swimming is not advisable at both the waterfalls as there are no life guards available and the water has proved to be fatal for many people till date.

How to reach the Barachukki and Gaganachukki Falls

The waterfalls are easy to reach as they are well-connected by several means of transport.

By Air

The nearest airport to reach the falls is the Bangalore International Airport. It operates several flights that connect it to many national and international destinations. From the airport visitors can hire cabs or taxis to reach the waterfalls and the surrounding areas.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to reach the waterfalls is the Mysore Railway Station that is located at a distance of about 60 km from the falls. Maddur also has a railway station that is near to the waterfalls but the preferred one is the Mysore Railway Station.

By Road

There are several KSTDC buses that operate between Bangalore and Kollegal on a frequent basis. From Kollegal there are local means of transport available to reach the waterfalls. Visitors can also hire cabs, private vehicles or taxis to reach the waterfalls directly from Bangalore or Mysore.