Balamuri Falls — Attraction in Karnataka

Balmuri Falls is a popular and picturesque spot located near Srirangapatna in the Mandya district of Karnataka, India, close to Mysore. While often referred to as a "falls," it's actually a man-made cascade created by a check-dam built across the Cauvery River. The water flows over the dam, creating a 6-foot tall sheet of water, making it a scenic location. Here's a breakdown of what makes Balmuri Falls a notable destination: Location and Accessibility: Proximity to Mysore: It's approximately 15-16 km from Mysore, making it a popular day trip destination. Proximity to Srirangapatna: It's also a short drive from the historic town of Srirangapatna (around 3 km). From Bangalore: It's about 138-140 km from Bangalore, easily accessible via the Bangalore-Mysore Highway. Getting there: You can reach it by road (car, bus, taxi/auto). The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction or Srirangapatna, and the nearest airport is Mysore Airport. What it's known for: Scenic Beauty: Despite being man-made, Balmuri Falls offers a tranquil and picturesque setting with lush greenery and coconut trees, making it a favorite for nature lovers and photographers. Picnic Spot: It's a popular spot for picnics and family outings due to its shallow, safe waters where visitors can wade, swim, and play. Film Shooting Location: Its scenic charm has made it a popular spot for filming, especially for song sequences in Kannada movies. Edmuri Falls: About 500 meters to 1 km east of Balmuri Falls lies Edmuri Falls, another similar man-made cascade, which is often less crowded and also suitable for swimming. Both are created by the water flow from the KRS Dam. Name Origin: The name "Balmuri" comes from the Kannada words "Bala" (right) and "Muri" (turn), referring to the slight rightward turn the river takes at this point. Things to do at Balmuri Falls: Wading and Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip in the shallow, cool waters. The water levels are generally safe, especially from March to August. Picnics: It's an ideal spot for a leisurely picnic with family and friends. Photography: Capture the beautiful cascade and the serene natural surroundings. Boating: Seasonal boat rides (coracle rides) are often available when water levels are high enough, providing a unique perspective of the area. Explore nearby: Edmuri Falls: Visit the adjacent Edmuri Falls for a quieter experience. Ganesha Temple: There's an ancient Ganesha temple in the vicinity of the falls. Local snacks and fish: You can find makeshift stalls selling local snacks and freshly fried fish. Dirt-biking: Some adventure zones nearby offer activities like dirt-biking. Paddy fields: Explore the surrounding green paddy fields and countryside. Best Time to Visit: The falls are open year-round, but the most enjoyable time is generally from March to August, especially during the summer months, when the water levels are relatively low and safe for swimming. Winter months can also be pleasant for picnics and leisurely strolls. During the monsoon season (June, July, August), the water velocity might be higher, making it less advisable to venture deep into the water. Balmuri Falls offers a peaceful escape and a refreshing experience, making it a well-loved destination for both locals and tourists exploring the Mysore and...

Balmuri falls is a small water cascade located at Srirangapatna in Karnataka. Though known as a waterfall, it is a human-made check dam over the Cauvery river, which allows the water to flow in a 6-foot cascade over the Cauvery. Green coconut palms and trees adorn the shores and the gushing cascade of water sparkle in the sun, which is why the spot is quite scenic where many song sequences in Kannada and a few Hindi films have been shot! Now, isn’t that inviting enough for all you photographers out there to spend a day out wading over the waters and capturing beautiful pictures!

It is at a quiet location on the outskirts of Mysore, and so it's also a perfect spot for a picnic with your family or friends. The name 'Balmuri' means 'to curve right' in the Kannada language, which relates to the right turn that the river takes at this spot in Srirangapatna. The check dam over the falls runs across the breadth of the Cauvery river and creates a beautiful cascade of water just 6 feet high. You can walk on the dam, and the water will run up to your ankles. Best way to enjoy the falls is to take a relaxing bath in the water.

Balmuri Falls is surrounded by river and greenery. If you are at Mysore or Bangalore, this place makes for a great one-day picnic. You will be able to enjoy the beautiful view and also cool off by taking a dip in the water. The best time to visit is from March to August during the Summer. The water is at a safe level during this time so you should be able to take a short dip and escape the heat of the sun.

Be aware of when the water flow will be regulated, as sometimes the dam might be opened to release a sudden gush of water, which is unsafe to venture into. Otherwise, the water is safe for a cooling bath and a fun picnic. One other fun activity would be to take a walk in the sparkling river water. It's possible because the water is quite shallow on top of the check dam and can be ventured into safely.

Best Time To Visit Balmuri Falls

The Balmuri falls usually starts getting crowded by morning hours. Tourists come to the spot at all times of the day. The only fall in the number of tourists is seen in monsoon because of the increased water level which is not safe. You will see large groups of people either trekking or on a picnic around the year. Boating at Balmuri Falls When the river waters near the falls are calm, the locals organise to take you on fun boat rides. If you visit during the summer, you should go for it. The river near the falls has a smooth flow. The greenery around is refreshing and beautiful to look at. It will be relaxing to experience a boat ride in such a scenic location

The nearest railway station to Balmuri falls is the one at Mysore. The falls is only half an hour by car, Northwards from Mysore and can be reached by taking a taxi or a bus from the city. Bangalore to Balmuri falls is also a possible route by car or taxi. It is a 2.5-hour ride North-East...

I went with my family in the third week of March '24. It was a fun-filled experience.

The catchment area of the dam offers 15 minute rides on these 'round boats' (coracles) charging ₹100/head. Though some boatmen ask for tips, it's upto you if you want to give. It's said the water depth is 30 feet.

At the cement bund area of the dam, water overflows and forms a 1.5 metre high 'water fall' (if I may call it so). People bath and play in these falls. This area and the 2 metre wide bund area are safe enough, but watch out for slippery areas.

People also play in the rocky areas where the water flows along forming streams, though we had time constrains preventing us from exploring those areas.

Note:

Though there is a designated changing area for women, it was locked when we approached the place. So we changed ourselves in our car which had shades on the windows. You can opt to leave your footwear in your car, but beware, there is a 50 metre walk to the waterfall area and walking barefoot might leave you with burnt soles. Note that you can leave your footwear at the entrance to the waterfall area.

In one area (end of the bund) where the water gushes out through a gap in the bund, sludge and waste thrown into the river accumulates. This is a secluded area from where water doesn't mix with the water coming into the waterfall area, but is definitely a matter which authorities need to look into.

Wanted to give it a 3 star for the above mentioned shortages, but it was too enjoyable, I had to tap 4 stars.

Definitely a must visit spot in your...