Here’s a detailed overview of Arisina Gundi Falls (also known locally as Arasina Gundi or Arasina Makki Falls), a stunning yet little-visited cascade nestled within the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, near Kollur, and at the foothills of the Kodachadri range in Karnataka:
🌊 Overview
- Location: Approximately 6 km from Kollur, within the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, situated at the base of the Kodachadri hills.
- Name Origin: Sanskritized name Arasina Gundi meaning “turmeric-colored pool” due to yellowish hue of the rock base when the water hits. Gundi means a stream or pool in local Kannada.
🥾 Trek & Access
- Trek Distance: About 1–2 km from the endpoint of an 8 km jeep ride through forest from Kollur, starting after the forest check-post (~2 km from Kollur temple).
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate—steep trail through dense forest, slippery patches and leeches especially during monsoon. Hiring a licensed guide is highly recommended.
🕒 Visiting Info
- Timings: Typically open from 9 AM to 5:30 PM all days of the week.
- Entry Permits: Mandatory forest permission and entry via the forest department at Kollur/RFO office. Rates around ₹200 per head reported in some reviews (2016), but check latest guidelines at spot or official site.
- Best Season: October to December—water flow is decent, and the trail is safer with fewer leeches. During monsoon (June‑Sept) the falls are gushing but trekking risky; summer (Mar–May) offers calmer water and clear trails.
🌿 Experience & Highlights
- Scenery: Tall single-drop waterfall plunging into a deep (up to ~30 ft) plunge pool, enveloped by dense evergreen forest. Sunlight often casts rainbows over the cascade.
- Swimming: The main plunge pool is dangerous due to sharp rocks and forceful flow—only safe for experienced swimmers. Nearby smaller streams and pools offer safer splash spots.
- Atmosphere: A serene and secluded destination rarely crowded—perfect for solitude, trekking, birdwatching and forest walks.
🚗 How to Get There
| Route | Details |
|---|---|
| By Road | From Kollur Temple, arrange a jeep or vehicle through sanctuary forest roads (~8 km). Final 1–2 km trek after jeep drop-off. |
| From Mangalore | ~80 km via NH169 to Kodachadri/Kollur (~2–3 hours), then proceed as above. |
| From Udupi or Murudeshwar | ~83 km from Udupi or ~67 km from Murudeshwar; buses to Kollur available—then hire local transport. |
⚠️ Safety & Practical Tips
- Footwear: Wear trekking shoes or sturdy sandals with traction. Use salt or repellant for leech resistance—including during winter due to dense forest floor.
- Be Cautious: Avoid swimming in strong current zones. Follow marked trails and stay close to your group.
- Wildlife Zone: Falls lie within a core sanctuary—strict adherence to forest rules is expected. Littering, deviating off-track, or unauthorized entry may result in penalties.
- Carry Essentials: Water, snacks, insect repellent, first-aid, and avoid plastic waste. Mobile connectivity may be limited.
✅ Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Arasina Gundi Falls • Arasina Makki Falls |
| Distance from Kollur | ~6 km (incl. 8 km jeep drive + 1–2 km trek) |
| Plunge Pool Depth | ~30 ft typical |
| Permits | Required via forest department at Kollur |
| Best Time to Visit | Oct–Dec; Summer & winter acceptable; avoid monsoon |
| Swimming | Dangerous near falls—safe only in calmer side streams |
| Trail Difficulty | Moderate—uneven, slippery, guide recommended |
🌟 Final Thoughts
Arisina Gundi Falls is an enchanting blend of adventure and tranquility—nestled deep in a protected forest, offering dramatic drop-offs, lush scenery, and offbeat exploration. It’s perfect if you’re looking to step away from crowded tourist spots and seek a pure, immersive nature experience.