Here’s a detailed guide to Mallalli Falls (also locally known as Mallimane Waterfalls), one of the most stunning cascades in the Coorg / Kodagu region, Karnataka:
🌊 Overview & Highlights
- Location: Near Somwarpet, in Kodagu district; nestled at the foothills of Pushpagiri (Kumara Parvatha) in the Western Ghats .
- Height: Approximately 200 ft (≈ 60 m), with tiered cascades formed by the Kumaradhara River .
- Topography: Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and coffee estates—a visual feast during monsoon and post-monsoon .
🚶 Trek & Visitor Experience
- Access Trail: A trek of about 2–3 km, part paved with concrete steps, beginning after Kalahali Road/forest checkpost. The path is downhill toward the falls, ascending on return .
- Duration: Expect around 3–4 hours for trekking, photography, and relaxation overall .
- Facilities: No food stalls near the falls—basic tea stalls may be available at the forest entry point. Carry your own water, snacks, and hiking gear .
🕒 Timing & Best Season
- Opening Hours: Typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. Entry is free unless local updates apply .
- Peak Season: Monsoon (June–September)—fall is at full flow, and the greenery is vibrant. Post-monsoon (October–December) offers safer trails while still retaining good water volume .
🚗 How to Reach
- By Road: From Somwarpet, drive about 26–27 km via Kalahali Road, then park and walk or take a hired jeep to the trailhead .
- From Sakleshpur: Access via Bisle Ghat or Kodagu route; road becomes dirt track closer to fall. Hiring a local jeep from Somwarpet or nearby homestay is recommended .
- Recommended: Many homestays (e.g., Chiguru, Spicefarm stays) offer jeep transfers to the trailhead and lodging options nearby .
⚠️ Safety & Tips
- Footwear: Wear strong-grip hiking shoes. Rocks near the fall are slippery; leeches common during monsoon .
- Swimming: Natural pool at the base is deep and strong—only splash from edges, avoid swimming into fast currents .
- Waste management: There’s no trash disposal on-site—please carry back your litter to keep the area pristine .
- Mobile connectivity: Spotty near the falls—download maps offline and inform someone before starting the trek .
📝 Summary at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Somwarpet, Kodagu (Pushpagiri foothills) |
| Height | ~200 ft cascaded waterfall |
| Entry Fee | Free (unless local changes) |
| Trek Distance | ~2–3 km (one way) |
| Access Road | Drive via Somwarpet → Kalahali → trailhead |
| Best Time to Visit | June–September (monsoon) & Oct–Dec |
| Facilities | None (carry essentials) |
🌿 Why Visit Mallalli Falls?
- Stunning natural beauty: Majestic waterfall framed by dense greenery and hills.
- Adventurous trek: Exciting descent via a combination of concrete steps and rugged terrain.
- Offbeat charm: Less commercialized than Abbey Falls—ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
- Great for day-trips: Easily combined with Coorg attractions like Pushpagiri trek, Dubare Elephant Camp, or Bisle Viewpoint .