JOURNEY TO WATERFALLS DISTRICT OF UK (KARWAR)-SIRSI TALUK
Date : 20th Oct to 23rd Oct 2011
Route
20th October 2011
Bangalore-Tumkur-Chitradurga-Davangere-Ranebannur-Haveri-Hangal-Sirsi
Sirsi-Banavasi-Marikamba Temple-Halt
21st October 2011
Sirsi-Jenukallu Gudda-Satoddi Falls-Magod Falls-Halt
22nd October 2011
Sirsi-Benne Hole Falls-Unchalli Falls-Yana-Vibhoothi Falls-Halt
Banavasi is one of the oldest towns in the Karnataka state. It has grown up around the Madhukeshwara Temple built in the 9th century and dedicated to Lord Shiva the supreme God in Shaivism, a major branch of Hinduism.
Banavasi lies deep in the rain forests of Western Ghats with the Varadha river flowing arount it on three sides.
Coin of the Kadamba king who calls himself on the coin "sri dosharashi," thought to be Krishnavarma II (ruled c. 516-540). The reverse of the coin has the legend shashanka, which means "moon." The Kannada letters and another coin can be seen in the entry for Kadambas of Banavasi.
In 2006, a 5th century copper coin was discovered here with an inscription in the Kannada script, one of the oldest such coins ever discovered.The Directorate of Archaeology and Museums said that the coin's inscription in archaic Kannada proves beyond doubt that Banavasi had a mint in the 5th century. The coin's discovery supports those seeking classical status for the Kannada language.
Adikavi Pampa, the first poet of Kannada, wrote his epic poems in Banavasi (one of the greatest poets of kannada)as: "arankush vittodam, nenavudenna manam, Banavasi Deshamum" (meaning: Even if an achor is pierced my mind will think of Banavasi) Such a beautiful place it is! The town once was the capital of the Kadamba rulers, an ancient royal dynasty of Karnataka. They established themselves there in A.D. 345 and ruled for at least two centuries.
As dynasties rose and fell apart with the passage of time, the temple was subjected to additions and renovations by later dynasties. As such the Madhukeshwara temple came to be known as an amalgamation of several schools of architecture. The presiding deity of Madhukeshwara is a honey colored lingam dedicated during the period of Mayura Varma, the first king of Kadambas.
The Sankalpa mantapa in front reveals the influence of the Chalukyan style, while the Nritya mantapa or the dancing hall was added during the Hoysala period and has exquisite carving on the pillars and the ceiling. There are also beautifully carved monolithic structures, credited to Sonda rulers.
The temple has several monolithic stone works such as a stone couch and triloka mantapa depicting heaven, earth and the nether. The idols of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu can be seen in the temple.
The Nritya mantapa or the dancing hall was added during the Hoysala period and has exquisite carving on the pillars and the ceiling. This is the spot where the legendary Shantala challenged the famed musician Allama Prabhu. She went on to become the wife of king Vishnuvardhana and inspired the renowned dancing sculptures of Belur and Halebid.
Breif Information - Marikamba Temple
JENUKALLU GUDDA
Jenukallu - Jenu means Honey, Kallu means stone and Gudda means hill. This place is a viewpoint in the Western Ghat, which offers a panoramic view of the hills packed one behind the other. Jenukallu Gudda is situated 17 Kms from Yellapur. The Bedti River from Magod falls cuts across the green hills and bounces all the way to join the Arabian Sea beyond the hills Jenukallu.
The breathtaking view of the valley is worth a visit and during sunset the change in the scene is truly magical. There are three hills here, which are at a very high altitude. They are Jenukallu Gudda, Kodekallu Gudda and Balekallu Gudda. The highest hill is the Balekallu Gudda. The roads are manageable but at certain points they do offer a challenge for small cars. It is famous for snakes, bisons and bears.
Sathodi Falls is a waterfall in India that is formed by several unnamed streams near Kallaramarane Ghat, Uttara Kannada District, near Sirsi, and 32 km from Yellapur. It is about 15 meters (49.2 feet) tall.
MAGOD FALLS
Magod Falls is a group of waterfalls in Uttar Kannada district of Karnataka, India, where the river Bedti falls from a height of nearly 200m in two steps. It is around 70 kms from Sirsi, 17 kms from Yellapur, 215 kms from Shimoga and around 450 kms from Bangalore, It also known for best botanical forest. Many Ayurveda plants available here, Please wear Shoes and jacket because of leaches.
This waterfall is in a unique point of Western Ghats, on the border of three taluqs of North Kanara district (Sirsi, Yellapur, Ankola). At about 45kms away from Sirsi. You can take a bus going to Jaddigadde. From this Jaddigadde the waterfall is around 3+ kms distance. Though a motorable road is available walking is a pleasant experience.The height of the waterfall is around 200ft. A little further away is a Ganesha temple in the middle of the river. This temple is on the upstream. To go to this place you will have to take the deviation before you start walking down the valley for the waterfall.
At 5-30 am the Team was ready and also the VD Bhat of Sugavi, had morning tea and moved towards Benne Hole Falls.
On the way to Kumta from Sirsi after 21kms you get a small places called "kasage". From here the waterfall is around 6 kms away. Take the path which goes towards "Hosur" and till Hosur it is a jeepable track. The last house (Mr. Girish Hegde) in Hosur the walking in the land of the leeches starts. From here it is only 2kms away, we had started with nice cool sounds of forest including birds, reached the falls, captured the various forms of falls over there.
This marvelous place is one among the numerous waterfalls (somebody said 18) in north Kanara. A tributary which later joins the river "Aghanashini" flowing through the dense forests of the devimane ghats region of the western ghats falling from a height of about 200 feets forms this spectacular visual treat.
Nearest Medical Help Ragi Hosalli 9+kms and nearest Hotel Ragi Hosalli ( tea shop, snacks) Sirsi. It is different 'cos nobody around, full of leeches and everything is green as usual. The feeling is different entirely cool and calm.
We visited Mr. Girish House at Hosur, he was in Bangalore, we had tea and left towards Unchalli Falls .
Route: Sirsi – Aminhalli (14 KM from Sirsi, on Kumta Road) – Heggarane -Unchalli Falls (35km from Sirsi)
UNCHALLI FALLS
Unchalli Falls in one of the most scenic falls that I’ve seen and I love it! It is around 35 KM from Sirsi, situated amid dense forests and seems like a virgin fall i.e., one untouched by humans, YET! The falls is 5 km from Heggarane village. Earlier, one had to walk for at least 2-3 KM after crossing Heggarane. However, now new roads have been laid and one can travel upto 0.5 KM from the falls.
The route is steep downhill all the way to the first view point of the falls. The way back (steep uphill climb) is what is was worried about. Before proceeding further, let me warn you that, as far as my knowledge goes (I know it doesn’t go far but still), there is no route to get to the base of the Unchalli falls. We can only trek till 2 viewpoints from where we can ONLY see the falls in all its glory but can NOT experience it (like Jog Falls or Shivanasamudra).
Route from Unchalli Falls (40 KM): Unchalli Falls - Heggarane - Aminhalli - Left at Kumta Road . Proceed for 0.5 KM on Kumta Road - Right at Kumta Road towards Hegadekatte - Hegadekatte - Devanalli - Yana
This place in thickets of the Sahyadri hills of the Western Ghats is around 45kms from Sirsi and about the same distance from Kumta. Two huge rocks are the center of attraction here. There are two temples, temple of Shiva
Yana (Kannada: ಯಾಣ) is a village in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India that is known for the unusual rock formations in its vicinity. It is located in the Sahyadri mountain range of the Western Ghats, about 60 kilometres (37 mi) from Karwar port, 40 kilometres (25 mi) from Sirsi, and 20 kilometres (12 mi) from Kumta. The two unique rock outcrops near the village are a tourist attraction and a place for trekking, easily approachable by a small trek through 0.5 kilometres (0.31 mi) of thick forests from the nearest road head.
Yana is famous for these two massive rock outcrops known as the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and the Mohini Shikhara ("Shikhara" means "hill"). The huge rocks are composed of solid black, crystalline limestone.
Yana is also well known as a pilgrimage centre because of the cave temple below the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara where a Swayambhu ("self manifested", or "that which is created by its own accord") linga has been formed. Water drips from the roof over the linga, adding to the sanctity of the place. During annual festivities held here during the Shivaratri, a car festival is also held. It is also a popular hill station because of its lush green scenic forest.
Vishy drinking water from a shallow Water Stream
Legend
VIBHUTI FALLS
Reached Vibhuti Falls by 5-30 pm trekked nearly 2 kms to reach the destination, as it was inside the thick forest, light was dull , we need to shoot the pics with slow shutter speed, had a nice view over there and captured all the angles of the falls over there
Vibhuti falls is one of the beautiful waterfalls in Karnataka at the right side of the fall lies an agricultural field and to its left lies the jungle. The narrow road passing in front of it winds to the valley and ends there. Many big and small waterfalls around Vibhuti are found in abundance. There are many temples in this region too. Most of these places are considered very sacred. This region also encourages trekking but only for experts as rock climbing on these ranges can be dangerous.
Came back to Devnalli had Mirchi Bajji and tea, we bought pure honey over there and reached back Sirsi, had dinner with Mr. Uday Hegde and chatted in our room nearly till midnight.
As we slept very late, we woke up at 6-30 am by 7-00 we moved towards Swarnavalli Mutt, had pooja over there, visited Sonde Mutt and reached Sahasralinga.
SWARNAVALLI MUTT
Adi Shankaracharya established 4 Maths in the four cardinal directions of Bharat Varsha. Those are Sri Dwaraka Peetham, Sri Sharada Peetham at Sringeri Karnataka, Sri Jyotirmatha Peetham at Badarikashram in North and Sri Govardhan Peetham in Jagannatha Puri at East. Later the Shankaracharyas of these Maths during their Vijaya Yatras established several Branch Mathas or Shakha Maths at various places to make Dharmic Education easily accessible to local people and to make accommodation facilities for the wandering Monks. Many such branch maths exist in India. The heads of these maths are called "Mathadhipatis" or " Sri Shishya Swamis".
Swarnavalli Mutt is one of the two Mutts within the Havyaka Brahmin Community (the other is Ramachandrapura Math). It is in a place called Swarnavalli (or Honnalli as it is called in Kannada), in Uttara Kannada. It is located 13km away from Sirsi which is the nearest town and taluk headquarters. The Swarnavalli Mutt is presently headed by Shri Gangadharendra Saraswathi Swamiji. The Mutt has 16 seemas (Areas) as a gift from the Swadi Maharaja.
SONDE MUTT
Further down a flight of 24 steps, is the 'Dhavala Ganga' pushkarini along with a smaller 'Sheethala Ganga' tank nearby. The waters of these tanks are believed to be a confluence of all holy rivers of India. Around the pushkarini are located several small temples consecrated by Sri Vadiraja Teertha-Sri Chandramouleshwara on the south, Sri Veera Anjaneya on the west, Sri Venugopalaswamy on the north.
The garbhagudi of this temple is actually a chariot made of stone. Sri Bhûta Raja carried this temple for Sri Vâdiraja Tîrtha from Badarikâshrama, the abode of Veda Vyâsa. When he was flying south with the temple in his hand, he had to fight some demons. He used one of the wheels on the chariot to kill a demon. That's why the Sri Trivikrama temple's garbhagudi still has only 3 wheels with a fourth missing.
The Rama Thrivikrama temple consists of three parts - the sanctum sanctorum with the lovely idol of Lord Thrivikrama, the stone chariot used for transporting the Lord's idol and the idol of Sri Lakshmi Devi in the chariot.
Route to Sonda (20 KM from Sirsi, 30 min drive): Sirsi - travel 16 KM on Sirsi Yellapura Road - take a left turn at the signpost - Sonda (4 KM from the left turn). Sode/ Sonda/ Swadi is situated at a distance of 22 km from sirsi. The main deity of Sonda is lord Trivikram along concert goddess Rama. Just beside the temple, the famous Vadiraja Mutt is situated.
SAHASRALINGA
meanwhile Mr. Bhat had called Satish H to visit his residence at Suggavi (Sirsi-Banavasi Road), we decided to visit his residence and reached over there it was a small village. The Total population of Sugavi about 30 families lives over there. Met his father and mother over there had light refreshments and thanked once again for all the co-operation and moved towards Bangalore via Haveri-Davangere- Chitradurga-Tumkur (had Thatte Idli at Ravi Darshan, Kyatsandra) reached Banglore by 5-30 pm.
Sirsi-Benne Hole Falls-Unchalli Falls-Yana-Vibhoothi Falls-Halt
23rd October 2011
Sirsi-Sonde-Sahasralinga-Suggavi- back to Bangalore
The Team
Myself
H Satish
Sateeh Narasimhaiah
Harish
Sateeh Narasimhaiah
Harish
VD Bhat (Sugavi-Sirsi)
SIRSI
Sirsi (Kannada: ಶಿರಸಿ Śirasi) is a town in the Uttara Kannada district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is a hill station town with a population of around 90,000 people. The town is surrounded by lush green forest and the region is popular for a large number of waterfalls. Hubli is the nearest large city, and the main businesses around the town are mostly subsistence and agriculture based. Adike (Supari) (Areca nut) or (Betel nut) is the primary crop grown in the villages that surround the town, making it one of the major trading centres for Arecanut. The nuts grown here are transported all over India, and also exported abroad. The region is also popular for many other spices like cardamom, pepper, betel leaves and vanilla. The major food crop is paddy and rice is the staple food of the people. The majority of the people in Sirsi speak dialects of Kannada, most notably the Havyaka dialect. A sizeable part of the population, both Hindus and Christians, also speaks Konkani.
SIRSI
Sirsi (Kannada: ಶಿರಸಿ Śirasi) is a town in the Uttara Kannada district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is a hill station town with a population of around 90,000 people. The town is surrounded by lush green forest and the region is popular for a large number of waterfalls. Hubli is the nearest large city, and the main businesses around the town are mostly subsistence and agriculture based. Adike (Supari) (Areca nut) or (Betel nut) is the primary crop grown in the villages that surround the town, making it one of the major trading centres for Arecanut. The nuts grown here are transported all over India, and also exported abroad. The region is also popular for many other spices like cardamom, pepper, betel leaves and vanilla. The major food crop is paddy and rice is the staple food of the people. The majority of the people in Sirsi speak dialects of Kannada, most notably the Havyaka dialect. A sizeable part of the population, both Hindus and Christians, also speaks Konkani.
Reaching there
Road: Sirsi is linked to other parts of the state many state highways. Sirsi linked to neighbouring district headquarters of Dharwad, Udupi, Haveri, Belagaon, Shimoga. The state corporation has a very good network of buses to all major cities/towns in Karnataka and Maharashtra. VRL (www.vrllogistics.com) and Sugama Transport are the 2 major private bus operators.
Railways: Nearest railhead is at Kumta. Kumta is 58 km from Sirsi. Kumta is situated on Konkan Railway line connecting Mangalooru to Mumbai. Major railhead is Hubli, which is the Zonal Headquarters of South Western Railways.
Railways: Nearest railhead is at Kumta. Kumta is 58 km from Sirsi. Kumta is situated on Konkan Railway line connecting Mangalooru to Mumbai. Major railhead is Hubli, which is the Zonal Headquarters of South Western Railways.
Air: Nearest airport is in Hubli which is about 2.5 hrs drive from Sirsi. Hubli is connected to Bangaluru and Mumbai by air.
We started our journey by 5.30am and reached Chitradurga by 7.40 am, had breakfast at Aishwarya Port, and proceeded towards Haveri-Hangal and reached Sirsi by 1 pm, we had lunch at Hotel Madhuvan, and proceeded towards Banavasi. Mr.Dattatreya Bhat head priest at Banavasi Temple, performed aarathi and his son Mr.Srinidhi, narrated the of importance of Temple of Banavasi.
Brief Information about BANAVASI
Banavasi (Kannada: ಬನವಾಸಿ) is an ancient temple town in Uttara Kannada District bordering Shivamogga district in the South Indian state of Karnataka .
Banavasi is one of the oldest towns in the Karnataka state. It has grown up around the Madhukeshwara Temple built in the 9th century and dedicated to Lord Shiva the supreme God in Shaivism, a major branch of Hinduism.
Banavasi lies deep in the rain forests of Western Ghats with the Varadha river flowing arount it on three sides.
Coin of the Kadamba king who calls himself on the coin "sri dosharashi," thought to be Krishnavarma II (ruled c. 516-540). The reverse of the coin has the legend shashanka, which means "moon." The Kannada letters and another coin can be seen in the entry for Kadambas of Banavasi.
In 2006, a 5th century copper coin was discovered here with an inscription in the Kannada script, one of the oldest such coins ever discovered.The Directorate of Archaeology and Museums said that the coin's inscription in archaic Kannada proves beyond doubt that Banavasi had a mint in the 5th century. The coin's discovery supports those seeking classical status for the Kannada language.
The Sankalpa mantapa in front reveals the influence of the Chalukyan style, while the Nritya mantapa or the dancing hall was added during the Hoysala period and has exquisite carving on the pillars and the ceiling. There are also beautifully carved monolithic structures, credited to Sonda rulers. The temple has several monolithic stone works such as a stone couch and triloka mantapa depicting heaven, earth and the nether. The idols of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu can be seen in the temple.
The unique attraction of the temple is the half idol of Lord Ganesha, whose remaining half is believed to be in Varanasi. Within the temple is also located an idol of Lord Narasimha having a peacefull face. Moreover, the temple has a sculpture of five hooded Naga, which belongs to the 2nd century. This five-hooded Naga sculpture has an inscription in Prakrit (the old language). As per this inscription, it was installed by Princess Sivaskanda Nagashri following the construction of a Vihara and tank at the site. The temple is visited by devotees of Lord Shiva during Shivaratri.
after having tea at Mr.Dattatreya Bhat house, visited Marikamba Temple for Darshan.
Breif Information - Marikamba Temple
Sirsi is famous for the Marikamba temple, built in 1688. The famous 'Marikamba Jaathre', commemorating the goddess Marikamba is held by the temple authorities every alternate year. Nearly a lakh devotees from all parts of the country attend the fair, making it one of the biggest festivals in the region. Close to the Marikamba temple are the temples dedicated to Maha Ganapati and Shri Gopalakrishna.
For those who believe in astrology / fortune telling but do not have a horoscope in place, there is a ritual performed at the Maha Ganapathy temple by the priests there. The seeker has to frame the question that will have a binary outcome (Yes or No; True or False) The priest does the needful and the seeker is told about the verdict from Lord Ganesha. A lot of decisions like buying/selling property, choosing a vocation for higher studies are taken by some people through this ritual
21st OCTOBER 2011 - Sirsi-Jenukallu Gudda-Satoddi Falls-Magod Falls-Sirsi
At 5-30 am the Team was ready and also the Mr.VD Bhat of Sugavi, we had tea and moved towards Jenukallu gudda
JENUKALLU GUDDA
Jenukallu - Jenu means Honey, Kallu means stone and Gudda means hill. This place is a viewpoint in the Western Ghat, which offers a panoramic view of the hills packed one behind the other. Jenukallu Gudda is situated 17 Kms from Yellapur. The Bedti River from Magod falls cuts across the green hills and bounces all the way to join the Arabian Sea beyond the hills Jenukallu.
Since thick fog had covered we couldn’t get a clear picture of Jenukallu Gudda, we had some record pics and had breakfast at Shanbagh Hotel at Yellapur, we bought some Honey, chocolates, at Shanbagh Distributors, (Mr Vishal Shanbagh-08419-261017/9900775307) and moved towards Satoddi Falls, enroute to the falls we had a nice capture of Giant Spider with feed.
SATHODI FALLS
From Yellapura, we need to take highway towards Hubli [exactly opp. direction of Magod falls] and then turn left towards ganesh-gudi [Immediately after the petrol bunk]. An Arch at the beginning of this road is a good indicator for the road towards Sathodi falls. Roads are in are good condition, after Ganesh Guddi there is only mud road with huge rocks/stones. From here the falls is around 10km in forest area and then comes the beautiful view of the backwater of Kodasalli dam built across River Kali.
Also, to reach the place one can take a bus up to Barballi, and from there it is a long trek of about 10 km. The alternate route is to go up to Dehalli - Kattige via Ganesh Gudi, wherein a kutcha road winds all the way to the falls. Bikes are also available for rent at Dehalli, which is a common means of transport in this region.
Sathodi Falls is a waterfall in India that is formed by several unnamed streams near Kallaramarane Ghat, Uttara Kannada District, near Sirsi, and 32 km from Yellapur. It is about 15 meters (49.2 feet) tall.
The stream then flows into the backwaters of the Kodasalli Dam, into the Kali River Since the nearest fueling point is Yellapur carry your food and tentage. And you are not allowed to stay after 6pm in the forest.
Best time to visit : Best Time Winter and early Summer
MAGOD FALLS
Magod Falls is a group of waterfalls in Uttar Kannada district of Karnataka, India, where the river Bedti falls from a height of nearly 200m in two steps. It is around 70 kms from Sirsi, 17 kms from Yellapur, 215 kms from Shimoga and around 450 kms from Bangalore, It also known for best botanical forest. Many Ayurveda plants available here, Please wear Shoes and jacket because of leaches.
From there, via the shortcut route we reached Magod falls, As we entered Magod Falls, we paid Entry fee (ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ಅರಣ್ಯ ಇಲಾಖೆ ಜಂಟಿ ಅರಣ್ಯ ಯೋಜನೆ ಮತ್ತು ನಿರ್ವಹಣೆ ಹಾಗು ಗ್ರಾಮ ಅರಣ್ಯ ಸಮಿತಿ ಮಾಗೋಡು, ಇಡಗುಂಡಿ ವಲಯ ಯೆಲ್ಲಾಪುರ ವಿಭಾಗ ) from there we got down some steps had a nice view of falls. we got a chance to view this magnificent falls in all might and glory. Due to rains over the last few days, the falls was in its full glory and the beauty cannot be written down here but only seen and enjoyed! All through I was busy with my camera trying different perspectives and settings but still managed few good shots of the Magod, one can stay over there a Forest Guest house is situated there.
While we were having tea near the gate, i had kept my camera on the table, both monkey and a Cat came towards the table as we were having Mandakki, and i captured this shot from another camera. After Tea we moved towards next destination Shivagange Falls via Jadi Gadde route.
SHIVAGANGA FALLS
Information : This falls is situated in Uttara Kannada District.39 Kms from Sirsi, one has to cross thick forest to reach this spot. The Shalmala river falls in to a deep valley from a height of 74 meter creating an enchanting water falls. The river valley presents a captivating view. A little further from the falls is an island locally called Ganeshpal because of a small Ganesh statue over there.
This waterfall is in a unique point of Western Ghats, on the border of three taluqs of
After taking some pictures left over there and reached Sirsi by 7-30 pm had dinner and chalked out next day’s programme
22nd October 2011- Sirsi-Benne Hole Falls-Unchalli Falls-Yana-Vibhoothi Falls-Sirsi
At 5-30 am the Team was ready and also the VD Bhat of Sugavi, had morning tea and moved towards Benne Hole Falls.
BENNE HOLE FALLS
On the way to Kumta from Sirsi after 21kms you get a small places called "kasage". From here the waterfall is around 6 kms away. Take the path which goes towards "Hosur" and till Hosur it is a jeepable track. The last house (Mr. Girish Hegde) in Hosur the walking in the land of the leeches starts. From here it is only 2kms away, we had started with nice cool sounds of forest including birds, reached the falls, captured the various forms of falls over there.
This marvelous place is one among the numerous waterfalls (somebody said 18) in north Kanara. A tributary which later joins the river "Aghanashini" flowing through the dense forests of the devimane ghats region of the western ghats falling from a height of about 200 feets forms this spectacular visual treat.Nearest Medical Help Ragi Hosalli 9+kms and nearest Hotel Ragi Hosalli ( tea shop, snacks) Sirsi. It is different 'cos nobody around, full of leeches and everything is green as usual. The feeling is different entirely cool and calm.
We visited Mr. Girish House at Hosur, he was in Bangalore, we had tea and left towards Unchalli Falls .
UNCHALLI FALLS
Unchalli Falls in one of the most scenic falls that I’ve seen and I love it! It is around 35 KM from Sirsi, situated amid dense forests and seems like a virgin fall i.e., one untouched by humans, YET! The falls is 5 km from Heggarane village. Earlier, one had to walk for at least 2-3 KM after crossing Heggarane. However, now new roads have been laid and one can travel upto 0.5 KM from the falls.
Though the falls is full of water perennially, thanks mainly to no dams obstructing the river’s path, as yet, the best time to visit it is between October – December. Avoid visiting Unchalli falls in the rainy season (June to September) since there are a lot of snakes and leeches around.
The route is steep downhill all the way to the first view point of the falls. The way back (steep uphill climb) is what is was worried about. Before proceeding further, let me warn you that, as far as my knowledge goes (I know it doesn’t go far but still), there is no route to get to the base of the Unchalli falls. We can only trek till 2 viewpoints from where we can ONLY see the falls in all its glory but can NOT experience it (like Jog Falls or Shivanasamudra).
Since it was only 10:30 hrs in the morning, the falls was little misty and consequently, milky! Though the water is full. From this viewpoint, one can only see half the falls and the base is not visible.
Then, climbed down a series of around 150-200 steps to reach the 2nd viewpoint. The view from there was stunning and we could see till the base of the falls. It was a wonderful sight and if one has the right company or no company (ideal!), one can sit in silence there and enjoy the water cascading down the gorge to their heart’s content.
After capturing the various scenic beauty thro the lens we moved towards our next destination YANA.
YANA
YANA
We moved a short cut route via Manjuguni-Devnalli, we had a lunch over there at Raghavendra Upahara Mandira, (Raghavendra Naik -08283-244661) which was run by two brothers, had Vegetable Palav and Avalakki with thick Curds (finest one) and butter milk, after having lunch over there we reached Yana, now one can easily visit Yana because till the foothill of Yana is motarable road.
Route from Unchalli Falls (40 KM): Unchalli Falls - Heggarane - Aminhalli - Left at Kumta Road . Proceed for 0.5 KM on Kumta Road - Right at Kumta Road towards Hegadekatte - Hegadekatte - Devanalli - Yana
This place in thickets of the Sahyadri hills of the
There are two ways you can get there, Route 1. Take a bus from Sirsi which goes to mattighatta, devanalli via hegadekatta. Get down at a stop called "vaddi cross" and walk 6+ kms from there.
Route 2. Take a bus either from Sirsi or Kumta get down at a place called Anegundi near Kathagaal. This place is after the Devimane ghats if you are coming from Sirsi. From here it is around 16 kms walk.
Again, the route is very scenic. The journey itself makes it worth the while to visit Yana, proceeded on foot to the renowned volcanic rocks. The first sighting of Yana is that of the Mohini Shikhara to one’s right (if one approaches Yana from Sirsi/Hegadekatte side) and the view does take your breath away! A furlong of steps and one can see the magnificient Bhairaveshwara Shikhara to one’s left and we’ve arrived at Yana had darshan and pradakshine of the temple. inside the cave we had some pics and moved towards our next destination Vibhoothi Falls nearby Yana it is some 5 kms after Yana.
Route 2. Take a bus either from Sirsi or Kumta get down at a place called Anegundi near Kathagaal. This place is after the Devimane ghats if you are coming from Sirsi. From here it is around 16 kms walk.
Again, the route is very scenic. The journey itself makes it worth the while to visit Yana, proceeded on foot to the renowned volcanic rocks. The first sighting of Yana is that of the Mohini Shikhara to one’s right (if one approaches Yana from Sirsi/Hegadekatte side) and the view does take your breath away! A furlong of steps and one can see the magnificient Bhairaveshwara Shikhara to one’s left and we’ve arrived at Yana had darshan and pradakshine of the temple. inside the cave we had some pics and moved towards our next destination Vibhoothi Falls nearby Yana it is some 5 kms after Yana.
Information about Yana
Yana is famous for these two massive rock outcrops known as the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and the Mohini Shikhara ("Shikhara" means "hill"). The huge rocks are composed of solid black, crystalline limestone. 
Bhairaveshwara Shikhara is 120 metres (390 ft) in height.
while the Mohini Shikhara, which is smaller, is 90 metres (300 ft) in height.
Vishy drinking water from a shallow Water Stream
History
Dr Francis Buchan, a British official of the East India Company, surveyed the site in 1801. At that time, according to his reports, there were ten thousand dwellings. Over the years, because of naturally occurring erosion rendering the land infertile, people have migrated to other regions to pursue their vocations. At present, the place is inhabited by only a few families, one of them being the Pujari ("Priest") family.
Legend
Hindu Mythology links this place with an event in the life of the Asura, or demon king Bhasmasura. Bhasmasura, by austere penance, obtained a boon from lord Shiva. This boon made it so that when Bhasmasura placed his hand over any one's head, he would burn them up and turn them into ashes (bhasma). It is further narrated that, in order to test his powers, Bhasmasura wanted to place his hands on his patron Lord Shiva's head. He chased Shiva, which unnerved Shiva and prompted him to move from his heavenly abode to earth to seek the help of Lord Vishnu. Vishnu transformed himself to help Shiva, adopting the form of beautiful damsel named Mohini who enticed Bhasmasura with her beauty. Bhasmsura was quite infatuated by Mohini, and agreed to a challenge she issued for a dance competition.
During the dance competition, Mohini cleverly performed a dance bhang ("pose") with hand over head. Without realizing the gravity of this act, the demon king also placed his hand over his head and perished by the fire of his own hands, he was converted into ashes.[2] It is believed that the fire that emanated during this act was so intense that the limestone formations in the Yana area were blackened. The loose black soil or ash seen around the two large rock formations in the area are cited as proof of the legend by devotees who see them as due to the fire and that ashes produced by Bhasmasura death. The two hillocks are also named for this event: the tall peak being Bhairaveshwara Shikhara ("Shiva's hill"), and the smaller peak, a few steps down below, being Mohini Shikhara ("Mohini's hill") where an idol of goddess Parvathi is installed. There are also several other small caves nearby. There is also a Ganesha temple in the vicinity.
VIBHUTI FALLS
Reached Vibhuti Falls by 5-30 pm trekked nearly 2 kms to reach the destination, as it was inside the thick forest, light was dull , we need to shoot the pics with slow shutter speed, had a nice view over there and captured all the angles of the falls over there
Vibhuti falls which is a beautiful waterfall about 30 Ft high and is a natural pool. Vibhuti falls is located along the scenic banks of river Gangavali. Enter the gateway to the most unspoilt, untouched and unexplored exciting island by crossing the calm river through boat. Feel the heaven and tranquility surrounded in the crib of evergreen forests, majestic bamboo groves, landscaped garden and palm, impressive flora and fauna, magnificent rivers and natural scenic beauty. A holiday with unlimited frills and thrills will create a memorable journey of your life.
Vibhuti falls is one of the beautiful waterfalls in Karnataka at the right side of the fall lies an agricultural field and to its left lies the jungle. The narrow road passing in front of it winds to the valley and ends there. Many big and small waterfalls around Vibhuti are found in abundance. There are many temples in this region too. Most of these places are considered very sacred. This region also encourages trekking but only for experts as rock climbing on these ranges can be dangerous.
Came back to Devnalli had Mirchi Bajji and tea, we bought pure honey over there and reached back Sirsi, had dinner with Mr. Uday Hegde and chatted in our room nearly till midnight.
We thank Mr.Hegde and Mr.V.D.Bhat for all the co-operation throughout the Tour.
23rd October 2011 –Sunday (Sirsi-Sonde-Sahasralinga-Suggavi- back to Bangalore)
As we slept very late, we woke up at 6-30 am by 7-00 we moved towards Swarnavalli Mutt, had pooja over there, visited Sonde Mutt and reached Sahasralinga.
SWARNAVALLI MUTT
Adi Shankaracharya established 4 Maths in the four cardinal directions of Bharat Varsha. Those are Sri Dwaraka Peetham, Sri Sharada Peetham at Sringeri Karnataka, Sri Jyotirmatha Peetham at Badarikashram in North and Sri Govardhan Peetham in Jagannatha Puri at East. Later the Shankaracharyas of these Maths during their Vijaya Yatras established several Branch Mathas or Shakha Maths at various places to make Dharmic Education easily accessible to local people and to make accommodation facilities for the wandering Monks. Many such branch maths exist in India. The heads of these maths are called "Mathadhipatis" or " Sri Shishya Swamis".SONDE MUTT
Further down a flight of 24 steps, is the 'Dhavala Ganga' pushkarini along with a smaller 'Sheethala Ganga' tank nearby. The waters of these tanks are believed to be a confluence of all holy rivers of India. Around the pushkarini are located several small temples consecrated by Sri Vadiraja Teertha-Sri Chandramouleshwara on the south, Sri Veera Anjaneya on the west, Sri Venugopalaswamy on the north.
Sri Trivikrama Temple:
The garbhagudi of this temple is actually a chariot made of stone. Sri Bhûta Raja carried this temple for Sri Vâdiraja Tîrtha from Badarikâshrama, the abode of Veda Vyâsa. When he was flying south with the temple in his hand, he had to fight some demons. He used one of the wheels on the chariot to kill a demon. That's why the Sri Trivikrama temple's garbhagudi still has only 3 wheels with a fourth missing.The Rama Thrivikrama temple consists of three parts - the sanctum sanctorum with the lovely idol of Lord Thrivikrama, the stone chariot used for transporting the Lord's idol and the idol of Sri Lakshmi Devi in the chariot.
Route to Sonda (20 KM from Sirsi, 30 min drive): Sirsi - travel 16 KM on Sirsi Yellapura Road - take a left turn at the signpost - Sonda (4 KM from the left turn). Sode/ Sonda/ Swadi is situated at a distance of 22 km from sirsi. The main deity of Sonda is lord Trivikram along concert goddess Rama. Just beside the temple, the famous Vadiraja Mutt is situated.
SAHASRALINGA
Route to Sahasralinga (15 KM from Sirsi, 20 min drive): Sirsi - Sahasralinga (travel 14 KM on Sirsi Yellapura Road. At the signpost, take a left turn and travel 1 KM to reach Sahasralinga).
Sahasralinga, on the banks for the river Shalmala, is a place where one find Lingas carved on stones that abound the river.
meanwhile Mr. Bhat had called Satish H to visit his residence at Suggavi (Sirsi-Banavasi Road), we decided to visit his residence and reached over there it was a small village. The Total population of Sugavi about 30 families lives over there. Met his father and mother over there had light refreshments and thanked once again for all the co-operation and moved towards Bangalore via Haveri-Davangere- Chitradurga-Tumkur (had Thatte Idli at Ravi Darshan, Kyatsandra) reached Banglore by 5-30 pm.
I and my team heartily thank once again to Sri VD Bhat, Sri Uday Hegde, Sri Girish (Hosur)
