Here’s a complete guide to Shirale Falls (also called Shirley Falls or Shirle Falls), a hidden gem nestled in the Arabail Ghat of Uttara Kannada, near Yellapur town, Karnataka:
🌊 Overview
- Height: Approximately 100 ft (~30 m), cascading through forested terrain into a natural pool.
- Name & Setting: Known locally as Shirale/Shirley Falls, surrounded by areca plantations and dense Western Ghats vegetation.
- Public Access: It’s private property with a modest entry fee (~₹10 per person).
🥾 Trek & Terrain
- Distance from Yellapur: Roughly 13–20 km by road, mostly along NH52 (formerly NH63) heading toward Ankola.
- Trail: A 2.5–4 km trek downhill from the turn-off, through a muddy forest track and areca plantations. Walking is recommended over driving due to rough terrain.
- Difficulty: Rated Easy to Moderate. Steep/slippery near the base, exercise caution on wet rocks.
🕒 Timings & Best Season
- Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (June–September) for lush green surroundings and moderate flow. Post-monsoon is also pleasant with manageable trail conditions.
- Other Seasons: Water may reduce in summer, though the place still holds scenic appeal.
🚰 Facilities & Safety
- Amenities: None at falls—carry water/snacks. No toilets or changing facilities.
- Swimming: Generally not advised due to rocky underwater terrain and strong currents near the pool.
- Safety Tips: Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear. Beware of leeches during monsoon; carry salt or repellent. Trek in daylight and preferably with company or guide.
🗺️ Quick Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Names | Shirale / Shirley / Shirle Falls |
Height | ~100 ft (~30 m) |
Distance from Yellapur | ~13–20 km |
Trek | 2.5–4 km downward |
Entry Fee | ₹10 per person |
Best Season | June–September (Monsoon) |
Swimming | Not recommended |
Facilities | None—carry essentials |
✅ Why Visit?
- A peaceful, lesser-known waterfall offering solitude and nature immersion.
- Offbeat trekking in lush forests with minimal tourist traffic.
- Ideal for a day-trip from Yellapur, and easily combinable with visits to Sathodi Falls, Magod Falls, or Lalguli Falls for a full nature experience in Uttara Kannada.