The Falls are also known as the Lakshmana Tirtha Falls, derived from the name of the tributary of Cauvery which starts from these falls, the Lakshmana Tirtha River. Iruppu falls is a major tourist attraction as well as a pilgrimage spot. It is a beautiful waterfall right in the middle of the Brahmagiri forest reserve. The water is pristine clear and the spectacular falls has a good flow. It is a captivating experience for nature lovers as well as photographers, for the scenery offers many picture-perfect frames. It is home to many Oakleaf butterflies and endangered butterfly species named Malabar blue Bandit.
Location of Iruppu Falls
At a distance of 248 km from Bangalore, 110 km from Mysore, 75 km from Madikeri, Iruppu Falls is a magnificent waterfall situated in Brahmagiri Hills between Srimangala and Kutta in Coorg district of Karnataka State, bordering the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the best waterfalls in Karnataka and also one of the well-known Coorg tourist places. It can be visited as part of two days trip from Bangalore.
The drive to this place takes one through misty mountains and lush coffee plantations. Once one reaches the parking, one has to pay entry charges towards the waterfall, the walk/hike for approximately 20-30 minutes to land up in heaven. The place is a treat for the eyes as it is located amidst lush green vegetation. Literally the place is situated in the lap of mother nature. Also the walk is quite refreshing and worth it and the air is super fresh. Though one must be careful and must not go off roading in the forest as there are lots of King Cobras and animals in the vicinity.
There is a temple called Rameshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located on the banks of the Lakshmana Tirtha River, enroute to the falls. It is said that Lord Rama himself installed the Shiva lingam inside the temple. This temple attracts a large number of pilgrims during the festival of Shivaratri.
History of Iruppu Falls
It is formed by Lakshmana Tirtha, a stream originated in Brahmagiri Peaks and joins Kaveri River. According to the legend, Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana passed along the Brahmagiri range in search of Sita. When lord Rama asked his brother to get some drinking water, Lakshmana shot an arrow at the Brahmagiri hills and brought into being the river Lakshmana Tirtha. Dropping from a height of 170 feet through several stages, the falls are situated amidst thick forest of Western Ghats. The roaring waters of the Irupu Falls and the picturesque surroundings make it a favorite picnic spot. It is an unforgettable experience to stand at bottom of the cascades and play in the sizzling waters of the falls. Iruppu Falls is a part of the Brahmagiri forest range, there is a trek route that leads to the Narimale forest camp and then on to Brahmagiri Peak. Permission from forest department is needed for doing this trek.
What is speciality of Iruppu Falls?
Iruppu Falls is one of the best tourist destinations of South India, a best place in Coorg and a popular trekking site in Karnataka for a plethora of gems the place has in its store. It is a cascading waterfall that flows down the Bramhagiri hills nestled amidst the woodlands in the Coorg district of Karnataka. The gushing watercourse of the Iruppu Falls is also a perfect destination for trekking. The chilled water of the falls will soothe and rejuvenate you after a tiring trek as you sit and immerse your feet in its water and set yourself free from the cares of life. With a proper journey plan, you can enjoy the best ever trekking experience at Iruppu Falls.
Best time to visit Iruppu Falls
If you want to enjoy the mesmeric beauty of the Iruppu Falls, the best time to visit the place is during monsoon and winter that is from August till January. Peak season in Iruppu Falls is October and December to January. The maximum temperature is 34°C and minimum temperature is 12°C in Iruppu Falls.
How to reach Iruppu Falls
By road: You can reach Iruppu Falls by road from Gonikoppal to Nagarhole National Park via Kutta Road. The immediate previous stop is Srimangala. The distance from Nagarhole National Park to Iruppu Falls is 20 Kms and from Madikeri (the headquarters of Kodagu district) it is about 50 Kms. Rental cars and taxis are available from all major towns to reach Iruppu Falls.
By rail: The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction located about 110 Km from the Iruppu Falls. The other major rail stations are Mangalore and Hassan. From any of these stations, buses, taxis and rental cars are available to drop you comfortably at your destination.
By bus: The nearest bus stop to the falls is at Kutta. From there, buses play to and fro to major cities such as Mysuru, Madikeri, Virajpet and more via SH 89. Karnataka State Road Transportation Corporation (KSRTC) operates deluxe bus service from Bengaluru, Mysore, and Mangalore to Kutta at Kodagu. From there you can hire a taxi up to your destination.
