Jog Falls, Karnataka – Located at a distance of 402 km from Bengaluru, it is world’s one of the most spectacular cascades
Located in a region that is densely forested, the Jog Falls, also known as Gerusoppa, is India’s highest waterfalls. The wide span of Jog falls covers the whole of Shimoga and Uttar Kannad districts. Created by the Sharavathi River, the cascade falls from a height of 253 m (830 ft). The Jog falls is the second-highest plunge waterfall in India. It is ranked among the world’s best, the spectacular cascade. This milky foamed waterfall descends along the slopes of the Western Ghats. Four distinct cascades – known locally as Raja, Rani, Roarer and Rocket, are created with arching rainbows formed by the sunlight hitting the spray from the falls. Associated with the waterfall is the nearby Linganmakki Dam across river Sharavathi. Before the onset of monsoon season, when there is not much water in the Linganmakki Dam, the Jog Falls are only a pair of thin streams of water trickling down the cliff, as the water collected in the dam is exclusively for generation of electricity; during monsoons local rain-water is the source of water to the falls.
Places to see at Jog: Being an outstanding destination Jog is loaded by an array of tourist attractions.
Dabbe Falls
One gets to see mesmerizing view of the water scaling into a narrow gorge. The best time to visit the falls is during the monsoons.
Linganamakki Dam
Located about 6 km from Jog Falls, Linganamakki dam is a popular tourist spot. The dam forms the reservoir for the Mahatma Gandhi Hydro Electric Power Unit.
Tunga Anicut Dam
Located about 12 km from Shimoga, the dam is surrounded by green paddy fields and are coconut palms. One gets to see panoramic view of the Bababudain Giri Range.
Thyvare Koppa Lion and Tiger Reserve
Located about 12 km from Shimoga on the way to Jog Falls, the reserve is home to tigers, lions and deers.
Sharavati River
The river originates from Ambuthirtha in Thirthahalli taluk flowing to the north-west through the Western Ghats to form the Jog-Falls.
Nearby attraction from Jog: There are many places to visit that are close to Jog Falls.
Honnemardu
Honnemardu is a wonderful getaway for those who love a taste of adventure and prefer water sports. The small village is located on the slopes of a hill close to the Honnemardu reservoir.
Banavasi
Located at a distance of 51.2 km, an ancient temple town whose roots can be traced back to 4000 BC, Banavasi is tucked away deep inside the forests of the Western Ghats. Located in the Uttara Kannada district, the town is located on the banks of the Varda River.
Sirsi
Sirsi is a scenic little place located at a distance of 57 km from Jog falls. Lush green forests, towering waterfalls and quaint old temples make Sirsi in the Uttara Karnataka district a popular destination.
Bhatkal
Bhatkal is one Karnataka’s oldest towns and has a rich past. It is regarded as one of the oldest ports in India. Located in Uttara Kannada, Bhatkal is 84 kilometers away from Jog Falls and has some lovely beaches. The town is located on NH17 and is easily accessible via the Konkan railway.
Things to do at Jog Falls: Watching the breath taking waterfall is in itself a wonderful activity. Besides the sight seeing to the nearby destinations is also a pleasure.
Best time to visit Jog Falls: The monsoon season is the best season to visit Jog falls, as the beauty of the place is enhanced during monsoons. But if you are planning for picnics, outings and sightseeing activities, then the winter season, characterized by pleasant and cool weather is ideal.
How to go ?
By Air
You will get flight upto Bangalore (402 km) which is connected to all major cities in India and abroad. From there you have to hire a cab to reach Jog falls.
By Train
You have to reach Bangalore first which is connected by rail routes from all major cities in India. From there you have to reach Shimoga railway station by Shimoga or Intercity express and then take a bus to reach Jog Falls.
By Road
It is quite comfortable to reach Jog Falls by road as the place is well connected by a network of good roads. Jog falls is at a distance of 372 kilometers from Bangalore located on the national highway 206. This highway connects Tumkur (308km) and Bellary (345km). One can take buses or taxis from Bangalore and from nearby cities.
Where to stay ?
You can stay at the KSTDC Hotel Mayura Gerusoppa in Jog falls. For booking details you may contact: +91-0818-6244732. However more staying options are available at Shimoga. Few options are:
Hotel MG Palace: +91-08182-261 194, 196
Hotel Surya Comforts: +91–08182- 221 817, 324, 040, 400
Hotel Ramakrishna Lodge: +91–08182-227 551
River Tern Lodge: +91–094495 99778
Note : Phone numbers given above are according to the information available with us. If you find any contact number/s given above is/are incorrect or not in use, please let us know.
