Burude Falls
Imagine yourself sitting in an amphitheatre which is not man-made. Located in a natural setting and watching cascading waterfalls, listening to the silence of the forest and melodies of local and migratory birds, the flowing sound of water and the mist that you can feel. Once an unexplored destination, Burude Falls is now visited by tourists and trekkers in large numbers from all over the country. A 90 feet plunge rocky waterfall is located about 20 km from Siddapur and 55 km from another major town Sirsi is the most sought and unusual destination an adventurer in you can crave for.
Known as Illimane Falls as it is formed out of a rivulet called Illimane a tributary of another bigger river from the state. Famous for its breathtaking views and captivating landscapes of lush green forests and the misty hills makes it is even more picturesque. The waterfalls plunge at a height of 90 feet on different levels with a natural pool at each level. One needs to be extra cautious while visiting the falls. This picnic spot famous in the region offers an array of adventurous activities. However, getting into the falls is not advisable at any given point in time. Plan a day trip or for 2 days to soak up the beauty of the wilderness indulging in trekking, bird watching, nature walking or just being there in the lap of nature to rejuvenate and relax.
Bird-watching at Burude falls is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. One can easily spot the resident and a few migratory birds like Bulbul, Mynah, Jungle fowl, parakeets, woodpeckers, kingfishers, minivets, and many more.
Things to do and see
Hiking – one of the major activities one can do is trek to Burude falls. A moderate-level trek to reach Burude falls will not only energise you but is also meditative. A visual treat to the eyes, the place is an ideal location to hike up with friends and families and spend some quality time. Walking through the lush green trails of dense forest interacting with locals and indulging in some local authentic food is what you can expect here.
Photography – One of the paradise on earth for nature lovers and photographers is Burude falls. It is a delight and a dream for any wildlife photographer to capture those melodious and chirping birds, the fauna and flora of the jungle and some amazing landscapes for social media or personal collection.
Sightseeing – Not a trekking person or a photographer? No problem. The mesmerising landscapes at Burude Falls and around it will gravitate you towards it. The other places in the vicinity like Jog Falls, Honnemaradu, and Unchalli Falls can be clubbed with the Burude itinerary for a memorable holiday.
How to reach
One of the less-travelled and unexplored waterfalls in Karnataka that can be best reached to the last mile is by road. Located in Uttara Kannada district, Burude falls is close to Sirsi town. However, the closest small town is 20 km away and that is Siddapura.
By Air
The nearest domestic and international airport is Mangalore. The distance of 228 km can be covered by road in approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.
By Rail
Shivamogga is the closest railway station at a distance of 128 km and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach the falls by road. Trains are available from all the major towns of Karnataka state and Mumbai and other cities of neighbouring states.
By Road
The closest town is Siddapur about 26 km and takes around 35 minutes to reach the falls. The Burude Falls can be best reached by road to the last mile. The state-run buses or private buses ply from various parts of the state. However, the best way to reach is by own vehicle.
Best Time to Visit
Like any other waterfall, Burude can also be visited post-monsoon. The gushing waterfalls can be best enjoyed from October to January when the weather is pleasant and the falls are roaring. The summer is dry and the scanty waterfalls may not attract you. Extra precautions have to be taken up during and post-monsoon as the way to the falls becomes very slippery and can be dangerous.
Other Information
1. Avoid monsoon season as the area becomes slushy and challenging to visit.
2. The falls are quite challenging and dangerous to enter. Please do not venture to enter or have a bath under the falls.
3. There is a chance of leeches in the region, take necessary precautions.
4. Wear appropriate trekking shoes and clothes.
5. Ensure your supply of food, hydration and energy bars as the trek is a long and strenuous one.
6. Do not travel or trek the region alone. It is advisable to travel with an authorised tour operator.
7. The internet /phone connectivity is weak in the region.
Places to visit nearby
The picturesque Western Ghats region with misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, chill breeze, lush green & dense forests, chirping birds, fauna and flora of the region are more than enough reasons to visit when we say places to visit near Burude Falls. However, Jog Falls, Honnemaradu. Unchalli Falls, Thyvare Koppa Lion & Tiger Reserve are some of the places one must include in their itinerary when visiting Burude Falls.