Here’s a comprehensive guide to Unchalli Falls, also known as Lushington Falls or Keppa Joga, nestled in the pristine forested hills of Uttara Kannada, Karnataka:
🌿 Key Highlights
- Height: Around 116 m (≈ 380 ft) drop formed by the Aghanashini River.
- Names:
- Named after British district collector J. D. Lushington, discovered in 1845—hence Lushington Falls.
- Locally called Keppa Joga (“deafening Joga”) due to the thunderous roar of the cascade .
- Setting: Hidden in dense Western Ghats forest—popular spot for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers.
🕒 Best Time to Visit
- Ideal season: July to September (monsoon/post-monsoon) when the waterfall is full and vibrant.
- Alternative window: October to February for better trail conditions and clearer views.
🚶 Access & Trek
- Start point: Park at Heggarne (~5 km from the falls); Sirsi (~35 km) is the nearby major town.
- Trek distance: Short walk ~1 km (30–45 min) downhill through forest trail to viewpoint(s).
- Viewpoints:
- Upper platform provides sweeping overhead views.
- Lower viewing deck closer to base—trail gets steeper/slippery—exercise caution.
- Trekking conditions: Dense foliage, narrow paths, slippery steps and occasional leeches—wear sturdy shoes and travel in a group or with guide.
💵 Entry & Facilities
- Timings: Open 6 AM–6 PM daily.
- Entry Fee: Approx. ₹5/person; vehicle fees ₹10 (2‑wheelers), ₹40 (4‑wheelers) .
- Facilities: None at the falls—carry your own water/snacks. Basic amenities may be found in Sirsi .
🌈 What to Expect
- Visual spectacle: The waterfall takes a narrow stream at the top, then fans out in a broad cascade—especially dramatic in post-monsoon—often framed by floating mist or rainbows.
- Sound: The roar of water hitting the rocks is so intense it inspired the name Keppa Joga.
- Moonbow: Rare lunar rainbows (moonbows) have been reported on full moon nights—visible only through long-exposure photography.
📝 Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Alternate Names | Lushington Falls, Keppa Joga |
| Height | ~116 m (≈ 380 ft) |
| Best Season | July–September (monsoon), Oct–Feb |
| Entry Fee | ₹5/person; vehicle ₹10‑40 |
| Access Trail | ~5 km drive to Heggarne → ~1 km trek |
| Facilities | None on-site; stay in Sirsi/Siddapura |
| Nearby towns | Sirsi (35 km), Siddapura (~35 km) |
| Time needed | 2–3 hours round trip including trekking |
🚗 How to Reach Overview
- By Road: Sirsi → Heggarne (~35 km); last ~1 km trek through forest to falls.
- By Train: Nearest stations are Talaguppa or Kumta (~60 km). Taxis/buses to Sirsi, then proceed as above.
- By Air: Hubli Airport (~110–140 km), then drive via Sirsi or Siddapura to Heggarne.
✅ Why Visit Unchalli Falls?
- Epic waterfall in Karnataka: Majestic 380 ft drop set amidst dense Western Ghats forests.
- Serene yet dramatic: Far less crowded than Jog Falls, offering solitude and close nature immersion.
- Great for photography: Dramatic vistas, potential rainbows and rare moonbows.
- Nature and biodiversity: Rich flora, birdlife and forest ambience along the trail.