If your idea of enjoying the monsoon is dancing in the rain, you ought to do so in the most natural setting possible. Being amidst the lush green environs of the scenic Abbey Falls can only add to the spectacle of monsoon and make you literally dance in joy. The roar of the water along with the aroma of the plantations is a delight. The brilliant view of the waterfall from the hanging bridge running opposite to the waterfall is a sight to cherish. There is an over-bridge that hangs opposite of the falls, from where the most picturesque scene of white foams gushing down the ridge can be seen, captured, and remembered. The flow of the falls leaves a significant amount of water spray on those who stand on the bridge for some time. Getting its waters from rivers like other waterfalls in Southern India, Abbey Falls is a non-perennial stream.
History of Abbey Falls
The waterfall is located between private coffee plantations with stocky coffee bushes and spice estates with trees entwined with pepper vines. A hanging bridge constructed just opposite the falls.
The falls was earlier called Jessi falls, named after a British officer's wife. However, the place was a thick jungle area back then. Years later, the waterfall was discovered by Mr. Neravanda B.Nanaiah who bought the place from the government and converted it into a coffee and spices plantation that surrounds the waterfall today. The Abbey Falls, which was till then hidden amid the thickness of a forest, came up front, mesmerizing everyone with its sheer beauty. One cannot take bath at Abbey Falls. Earlier visitors were allowed to go into the waters, but since many accidents started taking place, access to the falls was denied.
What is Abbey Falls known for?
Cherish the breathtaking natural beauty. Abbey Falls is known for its lush green surroundings and the gorgeous natural beauty. The view is spectacular, and it is a delight to see the waterfalls cascading down from a height of 70 feet amidst a panoramic landscape making one of the most attractive waterfalls in South India. Abbey Waterfalls is one of the worth visiting sightseeing places in Coorg. Its scenic charm coupled with aromatic plantations of coffee and spices and peaceful surroundings deserve to be not just visited but remembered by every traveler.
Location of Abbey Falls and how to reach there
Abbe Falls/Abbey Falls is located in Coorg region of Western Ghats in Karnataka. It is around 8 km away from Madikeri, while from the historical town of Mysore, it stands around 122 km away. The distance between Abbey Falls and Bangalore is 268 km.
Just a 7 km drive is what is needed to reach Abbey Falls from Madikeri town. From Coorg, one can take a bus to reach the town and then hire a jeep or a cab to reach the falls. From the place where the jeep/cab drops you, you will be able to hear the gushing sound, but you will have to walk about 5 minutes to reach the fall.
Things to do near Abbey Falls
If you are a lover of nature, the beauty of the Abbey Falls will be enough reason for you to spend time there.
Tour of coffee and cardamom plantations: When on a visit to the Abbey Falls, you can explore the aromatic spice and coffee plantations surrounding the waterfall. Offering a mind-blowing experience, tourists should not miss on taking a walk of the gardens of coffee, cardamom, and other plantations around Abbey Falls.
Trekking: A trek through the greenery can leave one with a refreshed mind. Hiking amidst the undulating terrains of Sahyadri range is one of the most mesmerizing experiences to look forward to at Abbey Falls. The trek lasts for about 15-20 minutes and offers an enriching experience. The adventurous activity will get your pulse racing and offers a wonderful escape from the humdrum affairs of life. The area around the fall is ideal for trekking as well. So, if you are looking for something adventurous, plan a thrilling hiking through the lush greenery.
Temple: You can also visit the small shrine of Goddess Kali situated near the bridge. The place is idea for a family picnic as well. Near the bridge there is a small temple dedicated to the Goddess Kali.
Photography: One should take the camera along and explore the breathtaking landscapes through the lens. The gushing white waterfalls present a very beautiful view and bring out the photography lover in all the tourists. While crossing the hanging bridge, do not forget to capture the waterfall’s fascinating views in your camera.
Things to remember while visiting Abbey Falls
If you are visiting the falls during monsoon, do look out for slippery steps and small insects and leeches.
To reach the bottom of falls, one has to climb stairs hence it is advisable to keep your medical aid handy if in case you suffer from any breathing ailment. Bathing in the waterfall is not allowed for various safety reasons.
Best time to visit Abbey Falls
The best time to visit Abbey Falls is undoubtedly the monsoon season, when its scenic beauty is at its best. The river is part of the early reaches of the river Kaveri. Flow is much higher during the monsoon season.
