Here’s a complete guide to Vibhuti Falls (also spelled Vibhooti or Vibhuthi Falls), a stunning and serene waterfall tucked in Uttara Kannada’s Western Ghats, Karnataka:
🌊 Overview & Name Meaning
Location: Near Achave village in Ankola taluk, Uttara Kannada, approximately 40–50 km from Sirsi, Ankola, Kumta, or Gokarna.
Origin of Name: Named after the white limestone (“vibhuti”) rocks surrounding the falls.
Appearance: A multi-tier waterfall—estimated around 60–70 ft—formed where small streams meet, cascading through forested terrain into a natural pool.
🌿 Highlights & Experience
Natural Swimming Pool: Deep pool beneath the falls with shallow ends—safe for swimming post-monsoon under lifeguard supervision. Sharp rocks and currents require caution.
Scenery: Surrounded by herbal and medicinal flora, towering limestone boulders, and lush greenery—a peaceful and secluded jungle setting perfect for relaxation and photography.
🕒 Best Season & Timings
Ideal Visiting Time:
October to February — balanced flow and safe bathing conditions.
Monsoon (June–Sept) — falls in full gush but swimming is not allowed. Trails get slippery and access may be restricted.
Operating Hours: Generally 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; short walks require planning accordingly.
🚶 Trail & Access
Entry & Trek: Park at Mabagi or Vaddi Cross, then trek ~1–1.5 km (typically 15–20 min) through forested trail—some benches in-between; worn but straightforward trail.
Terrain & Safety: Expect leeches in moist forest paths; wear salt protection and sturdy footwear. Final descent includes mossy rocks and slippery steps near the pool.
🚗 How to Reach
Mode
Route & Details
By Road
From Sirsi (~45 km) or Gokarna (~42 km), via Yana and Mabagi to trailhead parking followed by trek.
By Train
Nearest stations: Kumta (~40 km) or Sirsi (~44 km) — taxi/bus to trailhead.
By Air
Nearest airports: Hubli (~80 km), Goa (~120 km), Mangalore (~250 km) — onward by road to Sirsi then trailhead.
💵 Entry & Facilities
Entry Fee: ~₹20 per person (often includes parking fee).
Facilities:
Changing room nearby (₹20 extra)
Benches along trail
Lifeguard supervision near water.
Provisions: No restaurants at falls—nearest basic refreshment in Mabagi or Yana; carry water/snacks on the trail.
✅ Summary Table
Feature
Details
Height
~60–70 ft multi-tier cascade
Pool Depth
Shallow upstream → deeper near falls; swimming allowed
Best Season
October–February (post-monsoon)
Trek Length
~1–1.5 km one way (~15–20 min)
Entry Fee
~₹20 (incl. parking; changing room extra)
Facilities
Changing room, benches, lifeguard
Access
40–50 km via road from Sirsi / Gokarna
Safety Notes
Leeches, slippery rocks, occasional trail erosion
🌿 Nearby Attractions
Yana Caves & Limestone Rocks (~8 km): Pillar-like formations & sacred Shiva cave — great for mythology lovers.
Magod Falls, Sathodi Falls, Unchalli Falls, and Shivapura Hanging Bridge — ideal for extended nature itineraries.
👣 Why Visit?
Secluded oasis with minimal crowds—a peaceful nature escape.
Unique geology: limestone bed, herbal plants, and clear natural pool make it distinctive.
Family & nature-friendly: Suitable for gentle swims, herbal bathing and forest strolls.