Unchalli falls, Uttara Kannada District

Yet another picturesque waterfall of Uttara Kannada district formed by pristine Aghanishini river cascading through the dense western ghats and plunging towards the deep valleys of rainforest. On our concluding day of Sonda visit, we visited this waterfall enroute to Kumta from Sirsi. This waterfall is bit far from the Sirsi-Kumta highway which is about 25 kms. Although it looks like small distance, the winding road through dense jungles will make you feel like travel distance of 100 kms. This was pre-planned and was executed without any hiccups.

The waterfall is situated in Heggarane village of Sirsi (or Siddapur) taluk of Uttara Kannada district is also knowns as Lushington falls (named after his discovery). It looks like 10 yrs back, the waterfall was only reachable via trekking from Heggarane village for about 5 kms. Now the road network is properly laid which takes you to nearest possible location.

It seemed like longer journey due to winding and narrow roads. The authorities collect fees from traveller at the forest gate near Heggarane separately for automobile and individuals. We reached the parking lot comfortably after curvy journey from Sirsi. There is ample parking space and well maintained. We could hear the roar from parking lot itself. From here, a trek of 500m leads you to viewpoint of waterfalls. Either you can opt for muddy trail or adjoining stairs constructed from concrete. While the muddy trail is slippery, the stairs are too not easy to manage due to their above normal spacing. The path though completely precludes the sunlight due to the presence of gigantic rainforest trees.

There are three spots enroute to final viewpoint. The first one is large space where you can relax after arduous trek. The second one is viewpoint where you get side-view of waterfall and the final one is where you can enjoy the gushing ocean. We reached the final viewpoint and delighted to view the mesmerizing natural splendour roaring with deafening sound. The view would be breathtaking during monsoon season. I could not resist photographing the site and captured motion pictures too! We had healthy time of 30 minutes spent here in the lap of nature. The uptrek was filled with fatigue and perspiration despite the winter season. By the time we reached parking lot, we were completely soaked in sweat. After having short drinking break, we left the beautiful natural delight and enthralled with visit.

Reaching the spot

Turn on google maps and you reach comfortably. Enjoy the drive through the dense forest with paltry human presence. Make sure to fuel and service your vehicle well in advance. There are no repair station along the path except the towns Kumta and Sirsi. Also there is public transport to the location. Bank on your vehicle to visit.

Food

Carry your own food. A petty shop located at the waterfall site but sells minimal food supplies like beverages & biscuits.

When to visit

Monsoon is best time to visit but not without battling with biting leeches. There may be disappointments during monsoon season due to natural calamities or valley being engulfed with monsoon clouds and thus obstructing view of waterfall. During rains, it may be difficult to trek unless you have firm grip shoes. November-December time frame is ideal season to visit the waterfalls without any obstacles. During our visit during December, there was enough water gushing towards valley with loud voice. The viewpoint was getting sprayed by water from waterfall blew by the artificial breeze created by waterfall plunge. October timeframe would also be viable provided no unseasonal rains crop up.

Last but not least, the dustbins are erected throughout the trail. Please do not litter the beautiful location. Understand these are homes of wild animals and respect their habitat. 

A short video to conclude the blog. Hope you enjoy!