Barachukki Waterfalls — Attraction in Karnataka

Breathtaking views of the gushing Gaganachukki and Barachukki waterfalls will leave you in awe. The spectacular waterfalls with unmatched beauty surrounded by the dense forests of Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary are an ideal location for spending time in serenity and are also the perfect picnic spot.

Gaganachukki and Barachukki falls (Shivanasamudra falls) Together known as Shivanasamudra i.e. Lord Shiva’s sea, Gaganachukki and Barachukki falls are considered to be in the top best 100 waterfalls of the world. Take a coracle boat to reach the waterfalls and overlook the plunge from a height or the starting point from the cliff where the falls come gushing. The waist-height stream to cross on slippery rocks is enough to give you the adrenaline rush of a lifetime. Another way to reach the waterfalls is through the Dargah of Hazrath Mardane Gaib. The views from this point are fascinating and spectacular.

There is no dearth of picnic spots and day trips from Bangalore. With a 150 km range from Bangalore, there are several scenic locations and water bodies that make a perfect weekend getaway. Karnataka is blessed with a diversity of natural resources, historical wealth, UNESCO Heritage sites and many forms of art and culture. Shivanasamudra, or the twin waterfalls as popularly known, Barachukki and Gaganachukki after the monsoon makes a steamy sight to behold.

Best time to visit the Barachukki and Gaganachukki Falls (Shivanasamudra Falls) Sivanasamudra Falls

Shivanasamudra falls The waterfalls are in their full glory during or post-monsoon but can be visited any time of the year. The monsoon season extends from July to September. During the season the falls are captivating and roaring. Expect a heavy crowd during weekends and public holidays. There is no wheelchair access or accommodation available. To enjoy a coracle boat ride, winters are a better and safer bet to visit.

How to reach Skandagiri Shivanasamudra falls The twin waterfalls namely Barachukki and Gaganachukki, jointly called Shivanasamudra is 120 km away from Bangalore, 80 km from Mysore and 27 km from Somanathapura. The Shivanasamudra is an island dividing the River Cauvery into two namely Barachukki and Gaganachukki.

By Air The closest domestic airport is Mysore. Just 80 km away, Mysore is connected via air from Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai. The international airport is Bangalore about 120 km away. Cabs are easily available at both airports to reach the falls and explore the nearby areas.

By Rail The nearest railway stations are Mysore and Maddur. Mysore is approximately 80 km away from the falls while Maddur is 20 km. However, the connectivity from Mysore is way better than Maddur. There are several trains connecting Mysore to the rest of the cities in Karnataka and India.

By Road To reach the last mile, the best way is to travel by road. Umpteen buses are plying from Mysore and Bangalore to Kollegal. Which is the closest point to reach the falls. Kollegal is just 20 km away. However, one can hire a cab or reach there by own vehicle.

Other places to visit near Shivanasamudra Falls (Barachukki & Gaganachukki) Karnataka is rich in natural and historical diversity. Many other locations can be clubbed with Shivanasamudra visits. Bheemeshwari- A small town located near the bank of river Cauvery is famous for eco-tourism. A destination in natural surroundings is a one-stop destination for nature and adventure lovers. Somanathapura- A historical village dating to the Hoysala period, Somanathapura is famous for its historical monuments and its grandeur. The monuments exhibit the grand and exclusive architecture of the time. Channapatna- Famous for wooden and lacquerware toys and accessories, Channapatna is a small town on the way from Bangalore to Mysore.

Quick Info: The waterfalls are open to the public from 6 am to 6 pm. Swimming is strictly prohibited under the falls. There are no lifeguards available. Barachukki and Gaganachukki falls can be reached by different access roads and are 15 minutes drive away. Beware of red...

Bharachukki Waterfall — a must-visit natural spectacle (Visited with family & kids)

We visited Bharachukki today with my family and kids and left completely enchanted. From the moment we arrived the place felt alive — the thunderous roar of water, spray in the air, and the deep green of the surrounding forest create an immediate sense of awe. Bharachukki is wild and dramatic compared with many tame falls, and that raw power is precisely what makes it memorable.

Highlights:

Scenic power: The cascade is broad and powerful, with several tiers and crashing flows that create misty rainbows on sunny days. It’s a photographer’s dream — aim for the early morning or late afternoon for the best light.

Family friendly (with caution): My kids were thrilled watching the water and the birds. There are safe viewing areas and railings at key points, but do keep a close eye on little ones — some paths are uneven and slippery, especially during/after rains.

Sound & atmosphere: The constant white noise from the falls is strangely calming. It’s a great spot to unwind and soak in nature — we spent a long time just sitting on the rocks and listening.

Accessibility & walkways: There are defined paths and steps to several viewpoints. Wear good shoes — sneakers with grip are ideal because some sections have loose stones and wet surfaces.

Local amenities: There are small stalls nearby selling snacks and tea; toilets are available but facility quality can vary. Carry bottled water, wet wipes, and a small first aid kit.

Best time to visit: Post-monsoon (Aug–Oct) gives the fullest flow and most dramatic views. However, during peak monsoon months the area can be restricted for safety, so check local advisories before you travel.

Safety tips: Don’t cross barriers or try to get too close to the edge. Avoid slippery rocks and strong currents. Follow instructions from local staff or park officials. Parking & crowds: Parking is available but can fill quickly on weekends and holidays. Arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds and get good photo spots. Overall, Bharachukki is a powerful, unforgettable natural attraction — perfect for families who want a mix of adventure and relaxation. We left with wet shoes, wide smiles, and a trunk full of photos. If you love waterfalls, this should be on your list.

For more photos and quick travel reels from our trip, please follow us on Instagram: @clickcrypt — we’d love a follow back and to share more hidden...

🕒 Visiting Hours

Bharachukki Falls is open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s advisable to arrive early, especially during weekends, as the area can become quite crowded.

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💰 Entry Fees • Entry Fee: Approximately ₹10per person. • Vehicle Parking: Around ₹40 per car. 

Please note that fees may vary slightly, so it’s recommended to carry some extra cash. 

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🏞️ Historical Significance

Bharachukki Falls, along with Gaganachukki Falls, constitutes the Shivanasamudra Falls. This site is notable for housing Asia’s first hydroelectric power station, established in 1902. The project was initiated by Sir K. Seshadri Iyer, the Diwan of Mysore, and engineered by Sir M. Visvesvaraya. The electricity generated here was initially supplied to the Kolar Gold Fields and later to Bangalore, marking a significant milestone in India’s industrial history.  

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🌊 Visitor Experience • Best Time to Visit: The monsoon season, from July to October, offers the most spectacular views, with the falls in full flow. • Activities: While swimming is generally not advised due to strong currents, visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty from designated viewpoints. Coracle rides are available for around ₹100 per person, offering a unique perspective of the falls. • Amenities: The area lacks extensive food and beverage options, so carrying snacks and water is recommended. Also, the descent to the falls involves a steep flight of stairs, which might be challenging for the elderly.     

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🛣️ Getting There

Bharachukki Falls is located approximately 133 km from Bangalore and 78 km from Mysore. The nearest town is Malavalli, about 30 km away, from where taxis can be hired to reach the falls. 

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🏨 Nearby Accommodations

While the falls are typically visited as a day trip, accommodations are available nearby. The KSTDC Hotel Mayura Bharachukki is a government-run option located close to the falls, offering basic amenities for...