Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a beautiful hill station located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is known for its lush green forests, coffee plantations, and stunning waterfalls. Among the many waterfalls that Coorg has to offer, Abbey Falls stands out as one of the most popular tourist attractions. In this article, we will take a closer look at Abbey Falls, its history, the best time to visit, and what you can expect to see and do while you’re there.
History of Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls, also known as Abbi Falls, is situated in the western ghats mountain range and is part of the river Cauvery. The waterfall is located at a distance of 10 km from the town of Madikeri, the district headquarters of Coorg. The falls were discovered by British officers in the 19th century during the colonial era, and it was named after the nearby Abbey mansion.
Location and How to Reach Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls is located in the western part of Coorg, about 267 km from Bangalore. The nearest airport is the Mangalore International Airport, which is around 160 km away from the falls. The nearest railway station is in Mysore, which is about 120 km from the falls. From Mysore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the falls. If you are driving from Bangalore, take the Mysore road and turn towards Madikeri.
Best Time to Visit Abbey Falls
The best time to visit Abbey Falls is during the monsoon season, which is between July and October. The falls are at their peak during this time and offer a stunning sight for visitors. However, if you are not a fan of crowds, you can also visit during the off-season, between November and June. The weather during this time is pleasant, and you can enjoy the serene beauty of the falls without the hustle and bustle of tourists.
What to Expect at Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls is surrounded by lush green forests and coffee plantations, making it a great place for nature lovers. The falls cascade from a height of about 70 feet and offer a picturesque view. You can hear the roar of the falls from a distance, and the misty spray of water will cool you down on a hot day. There are also a few viewpoints from where you can take a closer look at the falls.
Trekking at Abbey Falls
If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can also trek to the falls from nearby towns. The trek is about 2 km long and takes you through the coffee plantations and dense forests. The trek is relatively easy, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of Coorg along the way.
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Photography at Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls is a paradise for photographers. The falls offer a stunning view, and you can capture the beauty of nature in all its glory. However, be careful while taking pictures as the rocks near the falls can be slippery.
Nearby Attractions to Abbey Falls
Coorg has a lot to offer apart from Abbey Falls. Some of the nearby attractions include:
Raja’s Seat: A beautiful garden located in Madikeri, which offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It was the favorite spot of the kings of Kodagu, who used to come here to enjoy the sunset. The garden is adorned with seasonal flowers, and there is also a musical fountain show in the evenings.
Madikeri Fort: A historical fort built in the 17th century by Mudduraja, the king of Kodagu. The fort has been renovated many times, and it now houses a museum that displays artifacts from the colonial era.
Omkareshwara Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built in the 19th century by King Lingarajendra. The temple has a unique blend of Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture and is a popular pilgrimage site.
Nisargadhama: An island formed by the river Cauvery, located about 28 km from Madikeri. The island is surrounded by bamboo groves and sandalwood trees and is a great place for picnics and adventure activities.
Places to Stay Near Abbey Falls
There are several accommodation options available near Abbey Falls, ranging from budget to luxury. Some of the popular ones include:
- The Falls Resort
- Club Mahindra Madikeri
- Coorg Jungle Camp
- Porcupine Castle
- The Tamara Coorg
Restaurants Near Abbey Falls
There are several restaurants near Abbey Falls that offer delicious local cuisine as well as continental dishes. Some of the popular ones include:
- Raintree Restaurant
- Taste of Coorg
- East End Hotel
- Udipi Cafe
- Beans n Brews Cafe
Tips for Visiting Abbey Falls
- Wear comfortable footwear as the area near the falls can be slippery.
- Carry a raincoat or umbrella during the monsoon season.
- Be careful while taking pictures as the rocks near the falls can be slippery.
- Do not litter and help in keeping the area clean.
- Follow the safety instructions given by the authorities.
Safety Measures at Abbey Falls
The area near Abbey Falls can be dangerous, especially during the monsoon season when the water level rises. To ensure the safety of visitors, the authorities have put up warning signs and barricades. It is important to follow these instructions and not venture into prohibited areas.
Conservation Efforts at Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls is located in the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, and efforts are being made to conserve the flora and fauna of the area. The sanctuary is home to several species of birds, butterflies, and mammals. Visitors are requested to cooperate with the authorities in preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Conclusion
Abbey Falls is a hidden gem of Coorg that should not be missed. Its stunning beauty and serene surroundings make it a great place to relax and unwind. Whether you are a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, Abbey Falls has something to offer for everyone.
FAQs
- Is it safe to visit Abbey Falls during the monsoon season?
- The area near Abbey Falls can be dangerous during the monsoon season. It is important to follow the safety instructions given by the authorities and not venture into prohibited areas.
- Is there an entry fee to visit Abbey Falls?
- Yes, there is a nominal entry fee to visit Abbey Falls.
- Are there any adventure activities available near Abbey Falls?
- Yes, you can trek to the falls or indulge in adventure activities like zip-lining and rappelling.
- Can we swim in the falls?
- No, swimming in the falls is prohibited for safety reasons.
- What is the distance between Madikeri and Abbey Falls?
- Abbey Falls is located about 10 km from Madikeri.
