Bandaaje / Bandaje Arbi falls

About Bandaaje / Bandaje Arbi falls

You would have heard of an adage that says,‘the journey is more significant than the destination itself’. Taking a trip to reach the Bandaje Arbi waterfall is a best example of this saying. Reaching this scenic spot has no particular set path. Based on individual inclinations, the easy path can be easily accessible. While the tougher, more eventful trail is open to those who dare.

The South Kanara district lodges many waterfalls in the lush green mountains of the Western Ghats. One of them is the Bandaje Arbi falls in the Charmadi Ghat. Falling from a height of around 200 feet, the route to reach this Arbi, (which literally translates to waterfall in Kannada) is interesting. Visiting the waterfall is inevitably accompanied with trekking to or from the Ballala Rayana Durga fort.

This is one of the routes popularly known for many people losing their way. Usually leading them to spend a night in the beautiful, creaking rain forests or in the humble cave, that is lodged near the waterfall. Therefore it is best to always come prepared with equipment (such as tents, sleeping bags, food and water supplies, etc.) Another pointer that would help is to keep you ears glued to the roaring sound of the waterfall. Following this thunderous guide will surely help, but you also need to have your acoustics in place to avoid the misleading waves that bounce off trees and mountains.

Bandaaje Arbi One of the numerous waterfalls of the Western Ghats. This beautiful waterfall is at few kilometers distance from Mundaaje near Dharmasthala in South Kanara. Arbi is a 200+ft waterfall,but the path leads to the top of it. Ballalarayana Durga is visible from the topmost point of the hill about an hour’s walk up from arbi. Arbi is waterfall in KannaDa. This waterfall can also be reached by sunkasaale and Ballalarayana Durga. Going by the amount of junk there,it seemed to be a popular spot. Its a pity to see such spots being polluted. More terrifying factor is the ignorance we prevail.

Bandaaje Arbi Falls, one of the breathtaking waterfalls in the Western Ghats, is located near Mundaaje, in Dakshina Kannada District of Karnataka. It cascades down from a height of 200 ft. Ballalarayana Durga is visible from the topmost point of the hill about an hour’s walk up from arbi. This waterfall can also be reached by sunkasaale and Ballalarayana Durga.

Location info

Best time to visit: Any time throughout the year

The best time to visit is after the rains around end September, early October. At this time the forest has been washed clean and shines bright for your arrival, while the waterfall gushes at full strength roaring you to its embrace. The weather is neither too hot and sticky, nor too wet and cold.

You could also trek in this place during March and April just before peak summer. However, be prepared sweat soaked walk as the humidity is relatively high.

If you love chasing the rains and would like to volunteer for a monsoon trek, you may visit the waterfalls in the months of June and July. Only meant for adventurous souls, it is during this season the rains wash down trails and stir up the leeches.

Climate/Weather

Maximum and minimum temperatures range between:-

36°C and 20°C in summers - March to May

27°C and 17°C in winter - December to February

The monsoon is quite heavy and downpours in rain forests only dampen plans of camping. It is usually between June to September and October to November.

Interesting things to do

Trekking

Adventurous souls could discover their own routes when trekking. However the one of the possible routes could be:-

• In Mundaaje, the house of Mr. Narayan Gowda is spot from where the trail begins. His house could be accessed either by a dirt road or by a 5 hour jungle walk for the more enthusiastic trekkers.
• A 4 hour ascent from there, through rain forests will lead you to the top of the gushing waterfall. Depending on the season you travel, you could experience rays of the sun playing ‘hide and seek’ between the tall trees, while melting you to a sweat ball. Or you could soak yourself in the preview of the waterfall while getting yourself drenched in the rain. The latter venture calls for people who are ready to brave the relentless leeches.
• A 2 hour walk through grasslands finds you at the Ballala Rayana Durga fort. Another 2 hours of walk and you will reach Sunkasale.

Events

The Manjunatha Temple in Dharmasthala has its grand Deepotsava festival in November and December which attracts crowds from all over every year.

Shopping info

You may find religious artefacts at the temples in Horanadu and Dharmasthala.

Interesting things to Visit

Besides the waterfall, one of the other major attractions is the Ballala Rayana Durga fort. Should you stop to smell the flowers or enjoy the scenic view the grasslands offer, you will reach the fort in 2 hours. The fort was built by the Hoysala Kings. But all that remains is a dilapidated 100 square metre space of trees and fortifications. However, do not miss the splendid scene from the fort towers. It presents a 360 degree view of the Shola forest, the Oorikan Estate to the east and the valley leading to Sunkasale below.

Another major attraction is the amazing drive through the ghats. The pleating mountains that form a never ending horizon are breathtaking. The golden sunset, paints a peaceful hue on the rippling mountain range making this trip worth every effort.

Nearest Visiting places

Other places of interest nearby are : Ballala Rayana Durga.

Buses are available from Dharmasthala to reach here. Ballalarayana Durga - one of the beautiful hilltops in the Western Ghats - is nearby.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

Where to stay :- Dharmasthala

• Camping in tents is the only form of lodging nature provides.
• At the waterfall, you could experience a blast from the past and stay in the cave that lodges around 7 people. It is recommended by the guides and there is no danger in indulging in nature’s treat.
• There is no shelter in the fort but if you go an hour’s descent from there, you may be able to find a house to stay in the village.
• In Mundaaje, shelter in the form of the school near Narayan Gowda’s house is available

Things to carry

Your backpack consisting of the following is recommended:-

• Equipment - it is best to carry tents or sleeping bags and torches in case you decide to spend the night camping.
• Food and water supplies - once on the trail, there is no accessibility to food or water, therefore carrying your own stock is advised.
• Medicines - containing painkillers, antihistamine, band aids, dettol, antibiotics, etc. Do not forget to carry insect / mosquito repellents, as there are swarms found near the fort and elsewhere.
• A pair of extra clothes - in case of rains and other emergencies.
• Machete / Sickle - while trekking through the dense forest, you will need a stick, machete or sickle to make way for yourself. If you hire a guide (which is advisable), he will surely have the necessary equipment to clear the path for you.

Dealing with leeches

• It is usually best to follow what the locals do. They apply a mixture of coconut oil and tobacco on their legs to avoid leeches clutching onto them.
• Alternatively, you could also carry salt wrapped in handkerchiefs, to dab off leeches.

Tips & Suggestions

Things to Avoid

Unless you are a dare devil, avoid visiting this place during peak monsoons.

Avoid going alone or without a guide, as chances of getting lost are high.

Also watch out for leeches and swarms of insects usually found near the fort.

Help Line/Phone Number

Nearest Hospital:

The nearest hospital is located 8kms away in Ujire. You could also contact hospitals in the Belthangady district:-

• Shri. Raghavendra Nursing Home - Tel: (08256)-232061
• Fr. L. M. Pinto Health Centre Badyar - Tel: (08256)-278245
• Jyothi Hospital - Tel: (08256)-233939
• Benaka Health Centre Ujire - Tel: (08256)-236742
• Abhaya Hospital Guruvainakere - Tel: (08256)-233664
• S.D.M Hospital Ujire - Tel: (08256)-236133
• Shree Damodara Hospital, Belthangady - Tel: (08256)-233097

Society/Community Phone Number

Tourist offices:- KSTDC(bookings and info) Badami House, NR Square, Bangalore Tel: 080-2275869, Fax: 2352626 Email: kstdc@vsnl.in

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit Bandaaje / Bandaje Arbi falls

Post-monsoon season (October to February) is the best time to visit when the waterfall is at its full flow. The monsoon months (June to September) see the heaviest water flow but accessibility may be limited due to slippery paths. Summer (March to May) has reduced water flow.

Timings & opening hours

6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Best viewed during daylight hours. Avoid visiting after dark as the terrain can be slippery.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: ₹10-₹20 per person for Indian nationals, ₹50-₹100 for foreign nationals. Parking fee: ₹20-₹50 for vehicles. Camera fee: ₹25-₹50 for still cameras.

Duration needed

1-2 hours is sufficient to visit the waterfall, enjoy the views, and take photographs. If the area has trekking trails, plan for 3-4 hours.

Safety tips

Do not venture beyond designated viewing areas or barriers. Rocks near waterfalls are extremely slippery. Do not swim in waterfall pools — submerged rocks and strong currents pose serious risks. Rainfall can cause sudden increases in water flow. Wear non-slip footwear. Supervise children at all times.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station: Shimoga Town (SMET) or the closest district railway station. Nearest airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (BLR) or Mangalore International Airport (IXE) depending on location. Local buses and taxis are available from both.

History of Bandaaje / Bandaje Arbi falls

Bandaaje / Bandaje Arbi falls is one of the scenic waterfalls in Karnataka, formed by a river cascading down the Western Ghats. The area around the waterfall is part of the rich biodiversity hotspot of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The waterfall has been a popular tourist destination for decades, known for its natural beauty and serene surroundings.

Frequently asked questions

Is swimming safe at the waterfall? No, swimming at the base of waterfalls is not recommended due to submerged rocks and unpredictable currents. It is safest to enjoy the view from designated areas.

What is the best time to visit? The post-monsoon season (October to February) when the waterfall is at its fullest flow is ideal.

Are there trekking trails nearby? Many waterfalls in Karnataka are surrounded by forest trails and viewpoints that offer short nature walks of 1-3 km.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Waterfalls

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Bandaaje / Bandaje Arbi falls

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Bandaaje / Bandaje Arbi falls on popular travel photography sites and social media.