Sathodi Falls is situated in Uttara Kannada (North Karnataka) district; it is 32 Kms away from Yellapur. In the midst of the rain forests of Western Ghats many unknown water bodies come together near Kallarmarane Ghat to form the majestic Sathodi Falls also fondly known as mini Niagara. It is also known by the locals as Debbesal.
The roads connecting to Yellapur are good, but the last few kilometers of the ride is bumpy and the road is very narrow uphill. At one point the vehicles have to be parked and the next kilometer to Sathodi falls has to be covered on foot. The forest and hill range in this region is thick and beautiful.
Picture1 – Sun streaming into the thick forest
The trek inside the forest is absolutely delightful with birds chirping, singing and fluttering elegantly in the rich environs. A stream gurgling along the path keeps you company on one side and the mighty river Kali, which is home to many crocodiles flow on the other side.
Picture2 – Strangler Fig
After a kilometer there is a clearing where the water from the falls is flowing over the rocks. It is a perfect place for a dip in the cool water. A climb from there through the water and rocks will take you nearer to the falls and the in-between lagoons formed by the falls are like paradise on earth. When you ultimately reach the falls the water sheets falling incessantly spellbinds you beyond imagination. It falls from 15 meters (50 feet) height and flows into the backwaters of the Kodasalli Dam, and then into Kalindi River.
Picture3 – Sathodi Falls
The forest surrounding the place is a treat to the eye with cane trees, teak trees, Bamboo, and others. Birds like Golden Oriole, Barbet, Emerald Dove, Big Horn Bill and others have made this paradise their home. It is one of the best places for avid bird watchers.
The best time to visit the falls is during November to end of February. During rainy season, the place is extremely wet and slippery and is infested with leeches. It is a rugged region and at nature’s mercy. There are no hotels or restaurants around, so it is better to carry food and drinking water.
Place Statistics:
Type of Place: Waterfalls
Situated: Uttara Kannada (North Karnataka) District
Distance: 535 kilometers from Bangalore, 60 Kms from Hubli, 32 Kms from Yellapur, 72 Kms from Kumta
Type of transport: Private vehicles or Taxis
Nearest Airport: Hubli
Nearest Railhead: Hubli
Facilities: Nil
