Barkana Falls, Agumbe - Timings, Swimming, Entry Fee, Best Season to Visit

At a distance of 7 km from Agumbe Bus Station, 22 km from Hebri, and 52 km from Udupi, Barkana Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Balehalli forest area near Agumbe village in Shimoga district of Karnataka. It is one of the popular waterfalls in Karnataka and among the prime places to visit in Agumbe.

Cascading down from a height of about 800 feet, Barkana Falls is the 10th tallest waterfall in India. This magnificent waterfall situated in the dense forest of the Western Ghats is formed by River Sita. This waterfall is the source of one of the important hydroelectric projects in Karnataka. The name Barkana comes from the word Barka which means 'Mouse Deer' that is found in the region.

Barkana Falls presents one of the most fascinating sights of natural wonders in Karnataka. The Barkana View Point, located near the waterfall, is an ideal spot to enjoy the mesmerizing view of the Western Ghats and the hill slopes of the region. The waterfall becomes even more charming during the monsoon season when the flow of water increases and it gushes down with a greater volume than usual.

Tourists need to undergo a steep trek from the Western Ghats via Gumbo Ghats to reach the fall. Part of the approach road to the falls is very muddy & only suggested to go by Jeep (which can be hired at Agumbe or Hebri). The falls is 3-4 km from Malandur village & the approach road is very muddy. To reach the top of the falls from here (not possible to reach the bottom of falls), one has to trek for about an hour (one way) through dense forest. Moreover, tourists interested in reaching the waterfall on motorbike can use the motorable path that reaches Barkana Falls.

The waterfall is an enthralling sight to watch during the heavy monsoons. However, it is risky to visit the waterfall during the rainy season as the trek route becomes very slippery and it becomes quite a task to navigate through the forest under such conditions. Moreover, the forest area becomes inundated with leeches. However, the awesome sight of the valley from the viewpoint and the beauty of the waterfall is worth taking up the tiring trek. As such, the best time to visit the waterfall is during the early winter season. To visit the falls, one needs to get permission from the Forest Department.

Timings: 7 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Rs. 200 for Person for Permission from the Forest Department