Manikya Dhara Falls- Magistic Waterfalls with a serene landscape that offers a great spot for photography and picnicking

Overview-

Manikya Dhara Falls is a very beautiful waterfall situated near Chikkamagaluru and is considered one of the most picturesque attractions that offer a great retreat to everyone who visits here. Manikya Dhara  means “string of pearls” and it is known so due to the natural phenomenon when the waterfalls in droplets that shine bright in the sunlight. This makes for a beautiful scenic landscape and a wondrous picnic spot that is also well-known for photography.  This place is also stunning for its beauty for die-hard nature lovers that visit this place to enjoy nature in its abundance and is a great paradise for trekkers and bikers.

A popular legendry story that originates from this place talks about Baba Budan who visited this place in search of water and he offered prayers after which water flowed in the form of a waterfall and the water here was blessed. This place is very sacred for both Hindus and Muslims and it is so believed that anyone who bathes in this holy water is a cure of his ailments. Many tourists who visit this place can find several shops in the vicinity that offers herbal medicines.

Height– the height of the waterfall is about 30 feet from the ground.

Location- The waterfall is located at Baba Bundagiri Hills in the state of Karnataka.

Entry Fee– Free

Timings– The best time to visit is during the daytime to avoid any mishap.

Distance from Chikkamagaluru main Bus Stand– it is approximately 34 km away.

Best months to visit– September to May

Where is Manikya Dhara Falls located in Chikamagaluru?

This beautiful waterfall is located on the Baba Budan Giri Hills, almost 7 km away from the shrine of Baba Budan in Chikkamagaluru, and is one of the most fascinating attractions of this region.

Interesting Things that you can do at Manikya Dhara Falls-

• Indulge in the scenic beauty-

The beautiful and picturesque Manikya Dhara Falls is surrounded by caves and mountains and its water never dries out even during the summer season. Visitors and travelers are awestruck by the scenic breathtaking beauty which surrounds these waterfalls. Many watchtowers and places to rest are present in and around this place where people can rest on the way down to the fall.

• Plunging into the sacred water of the pool-

T is strongly believed that the holy dip in the water of the pool can cure your ailments.  Very relevant and religious importance spread across to the Hindus and Muslims at this place, people also come forward to tie a piece of cloth on the fences after the holy dip into the crystal clear waters of the pool to fulfill their wishes.  To make your experience safe and convenient, fences across the place and well-laid steps have been built for easy access.

• Unwind yourself by the relaxing Waterfall-

If you do not wish to go down by the pool, you can simply unwind and relax by resting and watching the place on the nearby ground. You can pack some food and go picnicking with your friends and family out here. You can also enjoy a great time by just being yourself and taking a break from the mundane hectic schedule of the day. Camping can also be performed here as the grounds remain idle.

• Trekking down the hills–

It’s a great place to trek down the hills. Explorers and trekkers look forward to this place for some great fun. The entire range of Baba Bundagiri is considered the most charming trekking site. It’s a great place to enjoy tranquility, away from the commotion of city life and you can also enjoy the beautiful sunset as you roam around this place for some good peace of mind.

• Shopping from the nearby stores–

Many shops near this waterfall offer to sell herbal medicines that are believed to cure many diseases. Apart from these medicines, these shops also offer localized jams, pickles, and many other such items. You can simply shop a bit here and have a good time.

• Visit Baba Budangiri Cave–

Whenever you plan to visit the Manikya Dhara Falls, you should drop a visit to the Baba Budangiri cave shrine as well. It is very close to the waterfall area, hardly a few kilometers, and is revered by both Hindus and Muslims.  It is a religious place and you can simply trek or drive up to this place.

Best Time to Visit Manikya Dhara Falls-

This beautiful waterfall can be visited anytime throughout the year. However, post-monsoon is the best time to visit this place. The weather is at its best during this time. Winter and Spring are also suitable months to visit. You can spend some time at this place and then trek towards Baba Budangiri cave shrine which will take you almost 2 hours. This place is a bit far off from Chikkamagaluru city so it should ideally take half a day if you plan to travel to this place sometimes.

How to reach Manikya Dhara Falls from Chikkamagaluru?

Manikya Dhara Falls is almost 30 km from Chikkamagaluru.

Bus– the nearest bus stop from the Falls is in Chikkamagaluru town.

Rail– the main as well as the nearest railway station is almost 100 km from the falls. It is known as the Hassan Railway Station.

Air– the nearest airport is almost 200 km away from the falls and is located in Mangaluru.

Taxi/Cab- this is the best and the most comfortable of all. While you visit Manikya Dhara Falls you can book a taxi/cab nearest to you from the various car rentals in Chikkamagaluru. You can book it for the entire day if you please and enjoy your entire day. The cab can take you around the entire place and you can even visit Baba Bundagiri cave, around 7 km from the waterfall.

Points to keep in mind while you visit the Manikya Dhara Falls-

• Must carry your food and a water bottle.
• When you go down to the pool for the holy dip, you will need to walk almost 200 steps.
• Wearing a comfortable pair of shoes is a must when you plan to trek here.

Manikya Dhara Falls also popularly known as Nellikayi Theertha is a wondrous and truly divine area with blissful surroundings with a holy water pool that energizes anyone who dips into it with faith. The holy water blesses good health and people from all walks of life come here with a belief that they will be cured of their diseases. This is a must-visit picturesque and serene place to visit anytime throughout the year.

Day Outing Resorts in Mudigere