Here’s a complete guide to Kudlu Teertha Falls (also called Kudlu Theertha or Sita Falls)—a magnificent waterfall nestled in the Western Ghats near Hebri, Udupi district:
🌿 Overview
- Location: Approximately 42–54 km from Udupi, and 20 km from Hebri, along the Udupi–Agumbe road in the dense Western Ghats forest.
- Height: Drops around 150–300 ft (≈ 45–90 m), depending on sources, into a rocky pond below.
- Sacred Significance: Locals believe sages meditated here—making the pool beneath considered holy.
🚶 Trekking & Trail Info
- Trek Distance: About 3–4 km one way through forest terrain.
- Trail Route:
- From the forest checkpost, trek through dense forest.
- Cross the River Sita via a timber (Burma) bridge.
- Traverse bamboo groves and cross a small stream.
- Final stretch climbs rocky terrain to reach the waterfall base.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate—suitable for regular trekkers. Watch out for leeches during monsoon and slippery rocks near the falls.
🕒 Visitor Info
- Opening Hours: Typically 9 AM to 5 PM, with entry cutoff around 3 or 4 PM.
- Entry Fee: Approx. ₹50 for Indians; ₹100 for foreigners; kids charged ₹25. Camera fees vary by lens size (~₹200–500).
- Best Time to Visit: August to December, especially October–November for water flow and safe trails. During peak monsoon (June–July), access may be restricted due to flooding or landslide risk.
⚠️ Safety & Amenities
- Swimming: A shallow, clear pool forms at the base—safe for splashes but avoid standing directly under the powerful waterfall stream.
- Facilities: None near the fall. Only basic facilities at checkpost. Carry water, snacks, first aid, and anti-leech agents like salt or lime.
- Conservation Rules: Strict no-plastic policy enforced at entry point; fines apply for littering.
🚗 How to Reach
- By Road:
- Drive from Udupi or Agumbe toward Hebri.
- ~6 km before Hebri, turn left; after 3–4 km more, you’ll reach the riverbank and forest checkpost.
- From there, begin the ~3–4 km trek to the falls.
- By Public Transport:
- Catch a bus from Udupi toward Hebri or Agumbe.
- Get off at Nellikatte or Hebri, then hire a cab or autorickshaw to the checkpost.
- Trek onward from the drop-off point.
✅ Quick Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Kudlu Theertha Falls, Sita Falls |
| Distance | ~47 km from Udupi; ~20 km from Hebri |
| Fall Height | ~150–300 ft |
| Trek | ~3–4 km through forest |
| Entry Fee | ₹50 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners) |
| Best Season | Aug–Dec (post-monsoon cleansed trails) |
| Swimming | Safe for splashing; caution advised |
| Facilities | Minimal; food at checkpost only |
🌿 Why Visit?
- A stunning and secluded waterfall experience, ideal for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Combines adventure with spiritual serenity—untouched natural beauty deep in the Ghats.
- Lesser-known than other Udupi attractions, yet equally majestic and peaceful.
🗣️ From Visitors
On Reddit, travelers recommend:
“Kudlu Theertha Falls… best to come here early in the morning by 9 AM… It opens after 9 AM I’m guessing”
“It’s beautiful… deep in the forest. Trek 2 km… leeches!”