Chelavara falls
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Chelavara Falls

4.1
·3k reviews·Chelavara, India

Dramatic 150ft waterfall cascading over a unique tortoise-shaped rock, surrounded by lush greenery.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Post-monsoon mornings

Lush greenery, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Chelavara falls

Chelavara Falls

Best Time

Post-monsoon mornings

Lush greenery, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dramatic 150ft waterfall cascading over a unique tortoise-shaped rock, surrounded by lush greenery.

4.1
(3k reviews)

"A breathtaking wonder in Karnataka, Chelavara Falls will leave you in awe with its milky cascade."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚫 No Swimming Allowed

Despite its beauty, swimming is dangerous. Admire from viewpoints only. :warning:

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths can be slippery, especially in monsoon. Leeches are common. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tortoise Rock Cascade

The Tortoise Rock Cascade

Main waterfall viewpoint

Witness the majestic 150-foot plunge over a unique rock formation resembling a tortoise.

Scenic Drive Through Plantations

Scenic Drive Through Plantations

Road leading to the falls

Enjoy a picturesque journey through lush coffee estates and rolling hills.

Kabbe Hills Viewpoint

Kabbe Hills Viewpoint

Near Chelavara Falls

A short hike leads to panoramic views of the surrounding Western Ghats.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Chelavara Falls

While Chelavara Falls is beautiful year-round, the monsoon season (June-September) brings its most dramatic cascades. However, this also means access might be restricted due to heavy rains. Check local conditions before you go. The drive through coffee plantations is a highlight, so plan for scenic stops.

Safety First at Chelavara Falls

Many visitors note that while the falls look inviting, swimming is strongly discouraged due to dangerous currents and past incidents. Stick to designated viewpoints. Wear sturdy shoes, especially during the monsoon, as the paths can be slippery and leeches are present.

Best Times

When
Post-monsoon mornings
Why
Lush greenery, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Monsoon afternoons
Why
Most dramatic water flow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Location🔽🔽🔽 📍Kabbe Hills - Chelavara WaterFalls, Virajpet #karnataka #karnatakatourism #bangalore #waterfalls #fog #elephant #bangaloreblogger #madkeri #coorg #viral
ka05_hoonigan
50K likes • 538.1K views

🚫 No Swimming Allowed

Despite its beauty, swimming is dangerous. Admire from viewpoints only. :warning:

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths can be slippery, especially in monsoon. Leeches are common. :athletic_shoe:

One of the most beautiful trekking spot in coorg ❤️ Location: Near Chelavara village, about 37 km from Madikeri and 2 km from Chelavara Falls, Kabbe Hills is close to the Kerala border in the Western Ghats. The hills are roughly 1420 meters high. A short 30-minute trek to the peak starts from the Forest Office. Longer treks from nearby villages go through plantations and streams. A moderate tr...
karnataka_biker
29.6K likes • 382.2K views
Chelavara falls 💚 [Coorg , Life in Coorg , Kodagu , Farm life , Farming , lady farmer , Coorg monsoon , rainy season , village life , Home made Pickle ] #coorg #kodagu #lifeincoorg #coorgmonsoon #rainyseason #dailyvlogs #villagelife #farming #farmlife #agriculture #kahihuli #homemadepickles #omraksha #ladyfarmer
coorg_vibes_official_
695 likes • 9.2K views

🚗 Parking is Limited

Space for only a few cars. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. :car:

📸 Capture the Views

The drive and the falls offer stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

Share this with your travel gang! ⭐️Unveiling a breathtaking wonder in Karnataka ❤️💛 🌊 Get ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking beauty of Chelavara Falls! This incredible waterfall in Kodagu district will leave you in awe. Picture this: a milky cascade plunging 150 ft over a rock that resembles a tortoise! The locals even have a name for it in their dialect - “Embepare.” It’s an absolute m...
nehackeerthi
6.5K likes • 67K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚫 No Swimming Allowed

Despite its beauty, swimming is dangerous. Admire from viewpoints only. :warning:

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths can be slippery, especially in monsoon. Leeches are common. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Parking is Limited

Space for only a few cars. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. :car:

📸 Capture the Views

The drive and the falls offer stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

🌿 Bicolored Frogs Spotted

Keep an eye out for unique wildlife near the water. :frog:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Chelavara Falls is praised for its stunning natural beauty, unique tortoise-shaped rock formation, and the picturesque drive through coffee plantations. Visitors appreciate the relatively uncrowded atmosphere compared to other Coorg attractions. However, the inability to access the base of the falls and the strong warnings against swimming due to safety concerns are noted drawbacks.

"Chelavara waterfalls is a nice waterfall in Coorg near Kabbe Betta. There is a small parking space (for 2-3 cars) here.
Waterfall can be accessed by a small 5 minute hike. Bicolored frogs can be spotted here.
Area can be bit dirty especially during rainy season, recommend good shoes while visiting the falls.
Not recommended to enter the waterfalls even though it doesn't look dangerous, it seems many have lost lives here."

Sajeev Thomas

"The drive to the falls is quite good, through the hills and coffee plantation. The falls is visible from the road itself. There's a short hike (200m) from the road, through a small part. Beware of leeches though.

The road goes towards a peak and viewpoint from here. That was totally worth it btw."

Aaghran Ghosh

"This waterfall can be considered more of an optional stop during your Coorg trip, as you can’t actually reach the bottom for a close-up view. The location is a bit far and there aren’t many other attractions nearby, but if you have extra time, it’s still worth a visit. You’ll need to climb a little to reach the side viewpoint, but the scenery from there makes the effort worthwhile and offers a refreshing experience amidst nature."

Kumar Kaustubh

What People Like

Unique tortoise rock
Scenic drive
Less crowded

What People Dislike

No swimming allowed
Limited access to base

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chelavara Falls is located about 37 km from Madikeri. You can hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle. The drive itself is scenic, passing through coffee plantations and hills. Some visitors mention the road leading to the falls is quite good and visible from the road itself. Instagram+1

Public transport options to Chelavara Falls are limited. It's best to arrange private transport like a taxi or self-drive for convenience, especially if you plan to explore nearby areas like Kabbe Hills. Instagram

The route from Madikeri to Chelavara Falls is generally well-regarded for its scenic beauty, winding through coffee estates. It's a popular route for bikers as well. Instagram+1

Yes, Kabbe Hills, located near Chelavara Falls, offers trekking opportunities. A short 30-minute trek to the peak starts from the Forest Office, and longer treks are available from nearby villages. Instagram

Chelavara Falls is approximately a 5-hour drive from Bangalore, making it a feasible day trip or weekend getaway for those looking for a less crowded waterfall experience. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Currently, there is no mention of an entry fee or ticket requirement for Chelavara Falls. It's generally considered a natural attraction accessible without a formal ticket. Reddit

Chelavara Falls is a natural attraction and is typically accessible throughout the day. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better viewing. Reddit

Yes, there is a small parking space available near the falls, but it can accommodate only a few vehicles (2-3 cars). Arriving early is advisable to secure a spot. Reddit

Chelavara Falls is most spectacular during the monsoon season due to the increased water flow. However, access might be restricted if the water levels are too high or the conditions are unsafe. Always check local advisories. InstagramReddit

Compared to other popular waterfalls in Coorg like Abbey Falls, Chelavara Falls is often described as having minimal to no crowd, especially outside peak tourist seasons. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can view Chelavara Falls from a designated viewpoint after a short hike of about 200 meters from the road. The scenery from this viewpoint is considered worthwhile, offering a refreshing natural experience. Reddit

No, it is strongly not recommended to enter the waters of Chelavara Falls, even if it doesn't appear dangerous. Many visitors and locals advise against it due to strong currents and the risk of accidents. Reddit

The area around Chelavara Falls involves a short hike over rocky terrain. It's recommended to wear good shoes as the paths can be slippery, especially during the rainy season. Reddit

Chelavara Falls is located near Kabbe Hills, which offers trekking and viewpoints. Other waterfalls like Iruppu Falls are also in the Coorg region, though a bit further away. InstagramReddit

In the local dialect, Chelavara Falls is also known as Embepare, which translates to 'tortoise rock,' referring to the unique rock formation over which the water cascades. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The main viewpoint offers a stunning perspective of the waterfall cascading over the tortoise-shaped rock. The scenic drive through coffee plantations also provides excellent photo opportunities. Instagram+2

While drone footage can capture the grandeur of the falls and surrounding landscape, always check local regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. During monsoon, the dramatic flow can be captured at any time, but be mindful of weather conditions. Instagram

Direct access to the base of the falls is restricted for safety reasons. You can get good shots from the designated viewpoints, which offer a comprehensive view of the cascade. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the falls and the landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and enhance colors. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chelavara Falls offers a visually engaging experience for families, with the unique tortoise-shaped rock being a point of interest for children. The short, accessible hike to the viewpoint is manageable for most kids. However, it's crucial to emphasize that swimming is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns. Pack snacks and water, as amenities might be limited. The scenic drive through coffee plantations is also a pleasant part of the outing for the whole family. Reddit

Consider combining your visit with a trip to Kabbe Hills for a short, easy trek that offers rewarding views without being too strenuous for younger children. Ensure everyone wears comfortable, closed-toe shoes, especially if visiting during or after the monsoon, to navigate potentially slippery paths and be prepared for leeches. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers

Chelavara Falls provides a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with nature, often with fewer crowds than other popular spots in Coorg. It's a great place for reflection and photography. The scenic drive is also a highlight for those exploring by bike or car. Instagram+1

While the falls themselves are the main draw, consider extending your visit to Kabbe Hills for a short trek and expansive views. Be mindful of safety, especially when hiking, and always inform someone of your travel plans. The relatively less crowded nature of Chelavara Falls makes it an appealing option for solo travelers seeking a peaceful experience. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Chelavara Falls

Chelavara Falls, also known locally as Embepare (meaning 'tortoise rock'), is a captivating natural spectacle in the Kodagu district of Karnataka. The waterfall plunges approximately 150 feet over a distinctive rock formation that strikingly resembles a tortoise. This unique geological feature adds to the charm and mystique of the falls, making it a memorable sight for visitors. The surrounding lush greenery and the sound of cascading water create a serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Instagram+1

The journey to Chelavara Falls is often as rewarding as the destination itself. The drive, particularly from Madikeri, winds through picturesque coffee plantations and rolling hills, offering glimpses of rural Karnataka's beauty. This scenic route is a favorite among travelers, especially bikers, who appreciate the tranquil environment and the opportunity to connect with nature. Instagram+2

While the falls are a visual treat, visitors are strongly advised against entering the water due to treacherous currents and a history of accidents. Safety is paramount, and designated viewpoints provide the best and safest way to appreciate the falls' grandeur. The area can also be prone to leeches, especially during the monsoon, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential. Reddit

Exploring Kabbe Hills and Beyond

Chelavara Falls is often visited in conjunction with Kabbe Hills, a nearby elevated region offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats. A short trek from the Forest Office can lead you to the peak, providing a rewarding vista of the surrounding landscape. This combination makes for a fulfilling day trip, blending the thrill of waterfall exploration with the serenity of mountain views. Instagram+1

For those seeking a more extensive exploration of Coorg's natural beauty, Chelavara Falls can be part of a larger itinerary that includes other notable waterfalls like Iruppu Falls and Abbey Falls. While Chelavara is often less crowded than its more famous counterparts, it offers a unique charm and a more intimate experience with nature. The drive through the region also presents opportunities to witness local life and agricultural practices, adding a cultural dimension to the journey. Instagram+2

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