Onake Abbi Falls, Shimoga (Shivamogga) Overview

Agumbe, which is also known as ‘the Cherrapunji of the South’, is located in Shimoga District in Karnataka. Home to a large number of waterfalls and rich biodiversity, Agumbe is considered to be a trekker's paradise.

The Onake Abbi falls is one of the many waterfalls that Nature has bestowed on this place. The trek to the top of the fall is relatively short covering a distance of about 4-5 kilometers. The trail runs through a dense forest that is rich in flora and fauna. The summit of the trek offers a breathtaking view of the entire waterfall as it cascades from a height of 500 feet.

Water availability

It is advisable to carry your own supply of water for safety reasons.

Food availability

There is only one Bhajji- Boonda shop at the Agumbe check-post therefore it is advisable to carry some quick refreshments along and eat a meal before and after the trek.

Accommodation

There is no accommodation at the summit of the waterfall and it has to be arranged for in Agumbe village itself. The options available are the Inspection Bungalow and Dodda Mane, a home-stay.

Tips and Tricks

1.You are required to take permission for trekking from the Forest Department. You can contact either the DFO of Shimoga District or the RFO of Megaravalli. 2. Look out for the leeches on the trail.

Trek Routes

The waterfall is located 4 kilometers inside the forest from the main road. There are two routes that can be used to reach the destination. The first one is between the Agumbe bus stand and Agumbe check-point. There is a right turn in the road with a sign in the beginning that says, 'OUSHADEEYA SASYA VANA'. You can follow the road from that sign and directly reach the falls. The second route is from the check-point. There is a small park located there and at the end of the park there is a sign which says, 'OUSHADEEYA SASYA VANA'. If you start from here you will join the first path, midway. It is advisable to take the second route since it cuts through some dense forest and thus offers you an exciting experience. Approximately 200 meters before the falls, you have to take a few steps down and once you clear the steps you will be able to see the spectacular sight of the Onake Abbi falls.

How to reach Onake Abbi Falls

Rail: Udupi is the nearest railway station to Agumbe, located at a distance of 55 kilometers followed by Shimoga which is situated 90 kilometers away. Taxi and Auto-rickshaw facilities are available at both the locations.
Road: Agumbe is accessible via buses that run from Bangalore to Thirthahalli and then Agumbe which lies 30 kilometers away.