Arasinagundi Falls

Overview

Arasinagundi Falls, also known as Arasina Makki Falls, is a beautiful hidden waterfall located inside the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary near Kollur in Karnataka's Udupi district. Surrounded by dense evergreen forests and rich biodiversity, this secluded waterfall is a popular destination for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. The waterfall originates from the sacred Kodachadri Hills and cascades about 30 feet into a deep natural pool.

The name "Arasinagundi" comes from the Kannada words Arasina (turmeric/yellow) and Gundi (deep pit), inspired by the golden-yellow glow reflected by the rocks and water during sunny afternoons.

Quick Details 📍 Location: Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, near Kollur, Udupi District, Karnataka 💧 Waterfall Height: Approximately 30 feet (9 metres) 🥾 Trek Distance: 4.5–5 km (one way) | 9–10 km (round trip) ⛰️ Trek Difficulty: Moderate 🌿 Forest Type: Tropical Evergreen Forest 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March Trekking Information Distance: Approximately 4.5–5 km from the forest entrance. Duration: Around 2.5–3 hours to reach the waterfall. Difficulty: Moderate, with gradual uphill sections that become steeper and more slippery near the falls. Trail Conditions: Dense forest paths with muddy terrain, stream crossings, and rocky sections.

Note: Leeches are common during and after the monsoon season. The plunge pool contains submerged rocks, making swimming dangerous.

Travel Essentials 📅 Best Season: October to March. ⚠️ Avoid Monsoon: Heavy rainfall (June–September) makes the trails slippery and unsafe, and access may be restricted. 🥾 Wear: High-grip trekking shoes, full-length clothing, and leech-protection gear. 🎒 Carry: Drinking water, snacks, rain protection, a first-aid kit, and other essentials, as there are no facilities inside the forest. 🚯 Plastic-Free Zone: Avoid carrying single-use plastics and help keep the sanctuary clean. Entry & Guidelines Entry is regulated by the Karnataka Forest Department. Visitors should check the latest guidelines and seasonal restrictions before planning their trek. Trekking with an authorized local guide may be mandatory depending on current Forest Department regulations. Follow all safety instructions and avoid entering restricted areas. How to Reach 🚗 By Road

Travel to Kollur, then continue 2–6 km to the forest entrance, which serves as the starting point for the trek. Local taxis and jeeps are available from Kollur.

🚆 By Rail

The nearest railway station is Kundapura Railway Station, located approximately 40–45 km from Kollur.

✈️ By Air

The nearest airport is Mangaluru International Airport, approximately 130–140 km away.

Important: Since Arasinagundi Falls is located inside a protected wildlife sanctuary, visitors should verify the latest Forest Department rules, entry requirements, and seasonal access restrictions before visiting. Respect the environment, avoid littering, and follow all safety guidelines to help preserve this pristine natural destination.