IRUPPU FALLS

This stunning waterfall does not only captivates the beholder’s eyes but makes one fall in love with its unparalleled beauty. Falling along the Brahmagiri Mountain range of a tributary originating from river Cauvery. Irupu falls is also known as Lakshmana Tirtha Falls and this is the hidden splendour of Coorg, a very famous and picturesque spot. While on your route to Brahmagiri peak.

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. Iruppu Falls is also known as the Lakshmana Tirtha Falls as it originates as the tributary of River Cauvery under the same name. 

It is also popular among the pilgrims who consider the place sacred for its connection with the mythological story of Ramayana. According to popular belief, the water of the Lakshmana Tirtha Falls is bestowed with divine powers that wash off the sins of those who take a dip into its water. The blissful natural surrounding and exotic wildlife at the vicinity of the waterfalls make it a coveted asylum for nature lovers and holidaymakers from different parts of the country. 

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.

You can Checkout: Coorg Family Packages

How To Reach

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 cabs 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. 

Best Time To Visit

If you want to enjoy the mesmeric beauty of the Iruppu Falls, the best time to visit the place is during the monsoon and winter i.e. from August till January.

Other Essential Information

 -Location: Kurchi Village, South Kodagu, Coorg, Karnataka-571217

 -Height: 52 meters above the sea level

History of Iruppu Falls:

According to the locals and pious Hindus, the history of Iruppu Falls dates back to the days of Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama and his devoted brother Lakshmana passed this way during their exile days in search of Sita who was held captive by Ravana. During their journey, Rama felt thirsty and asked his brother to fetch water. Lakshmana shot an arrow into the Bramhagiri forest and immediately a fountain came down the hills in tremendous force that helped them quench thirst.

Locals believe that the epic shrine of Lord Shiva inside the temple was also installed and consecrated by Lord Rama himself during his exile days.

Places to Visit Near Iruppu Falls:

1. Nagarhole National Park- About 35 Km from the Iruppu Falls (via Gonikoppal-Kutta Road), the park is a bountiful haven for the real wildlife enthusiasts and solitude seekers. The northern and southern boundaries are made by River Kabini and Bandipur National Park respectively.

The two national parks are clearly separated by a dam of River Kabini and its reservoir that renders a picture perfect setting to the entire region. You can spot on animals like the Indian Sloth Bear, Civet Cat, sambar, mongoose, elephant, jackal, panther and a wide variety of reptiles and amphibians including Krait, Russel’s Viper, Indian Cobra, and Monitor Lizard. 

2. Kutta- The small idyllic hamlet is located on the border of Karnataka and Kerala and is the main entrance to Nagarhole National Park from visitors from Kerala. Although there is no major site of attraction in Kutta apart from the Kabini backwaters, the natural setting of the place is worth your visit. The place is easily accessible by road from Iruppu Falls as it serves as a site of nature-centric tourism in Coorg. 

3. Srimangala- A great weekend gateway, Srimangala has something interesting for all kinds of tourists. Without pinching your pocket or enduring much hassle, here you can enjoy the real fun of an excursion to the Iruppu Falls. Whether you are on a solo trip or touring in a group with family or friends, there are a plethora of adrenaline-pumping activities for adventure junkies. 

4. Chettali- Chettalli is a quaint, petite village on the Madikeri-Siddapur Road about 63 Km from Iruppu Falls which offers a blissful weekend retreat to the locals. Misty hills and unending greenery exude a typical serenity to the whole region and allure tourists from the neighboring places.

The Cherala Bhagawati Temple is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts a large number of pilgrims and tourists throughout the year. While shortlisting the places of interest for your Iruppu Falls trek, don’t miss out on this hidden treasure of Coorg. 

5. Brahmagiri Peak- Brahmagiri Peak is a part of the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary which is a popular trekking destination at Coorg and a great place for sightseeing. Located at a distance of 45 Km from Iruppu Falls the trail up to the peak comprises of rolling grasslands, vibrant flora and glistening streams under the blue dome of the sky enveloped in a blanket of thick deciduous forest.

The journey to the mist covered Bramhagiri peak is easy through the tropical forest and bamboo thickets but it grows steeper as you climb up. As you hike along the Shola forest you may spot Giant Flying Squirrel, Spotted Deer and other faunae that have made this forest their natural territory.

Places to Eat Near Iruppu Falls:

A few popular eateries near Iruppu Falls where you can enjoy dining and other refreshments after a tiring trip:

1. Hotel Sapthagiri- Located about 6 Km from the Iruppu Falls, veg and non-veg dishes available

2. Café Robusta- 6.5 Km approx.

3. Safari Inn- 22 km approx. from Iruppu Falls, South Indian cuisines (veg and non-veg) are available

4. PPM Restaurant- 19 Km approx. from Iruppu falls, specialises in Kerala cuisines (veg and non-veg)

5. Hotel New Sahara- 19 Km approx. from Iruppu Falls, veg and non-veg dishes available

Places to Stay Near Iruppu Falls:

Here’s a rundown of some of the most sought after places to stay near Iruppu Falls:

1. Machan Nagarahole- The Machan Wilderness Lodge located amidst the lush coffee estates in south Coorg is an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers who are ready with their cameras to capture wild animals in their variant moods. It takes approximately 90 minutes from Mysore to reach the lodge. 

2.Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa- A 5 star luxury hotel perched above 4000 ft. from the sea level amidst an expansive rainforest area stretching over 18 acres. The interior is well decked in typical Kodagu finesse which promises you of a comfortable stay when you are far from home. When it comes to living in style, Taj Madikeri has to be your superlative choice. 

3. Yamini Green- As soon as you touch down at the lodge with an ascetic exterior you can perceive the aptness of the name given to it. Yamini Green is a homely tourist lodge where you can enjoy homely comfort in the lap of sinless natural surroundings. The lodge has a domestic kitchenette where you can prepare food and enjoy dining with family and friends. The distance of the Iruppu Falls from Yamini Green is about 1 km approximately.

4. Sherlock Jungle Retreat- Looking for a premium accommodation with homely ambiance? Check out for vacancies at the Sherlock Jungle Retreat homestay which is located at no distance from the Iruppu Falls. The homestay provides river rafting facilities to the adventure seeking boarders from July till September every year. You can also enjoy jungle safari at the Nagarhole Forest and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary that are close to the homestay. 

Tips for Visiting Iruppu Falls

- Monsoon is the best time to visit Iruppu Falls but at this time the rivers are in full rage and accidents are common in this area. Take a guide if you are venturing out on rafting. 

- There are Sulabh Sauchalayas (changing rooms) inside the falls premises for changing clothes after bathing in the falls or if you are wet during monsoon trek. 

- A few things you should include in your backpacking are a pair of waterproof shoes, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottle, torch, towel and an extra pair of outfit.

- Carry your identity proof (authorized by the government) before starting your journey.

- There are no restaurants near the falls. A few roadside stalls are there on the way to the falls but the food and refreshment items are overpriced. So, it's advisable to carry your own snacks and bottled water for the excursion. 

- Since the trekking trail up to the falls is steep and slippery, it is recommended to wear covered and sturdy running shoes that will protect your feet from being hurt.