Jog Falls

The Sharavathi River cascades down 292 m in four distinct falls - Raja, Rani, Rover and Rocket - at Gerusoppa and is a roaring treat to one's eyes. While the height of the Jog Falls is quite intimidating by itself; going to the base of the waterfall and then climbing back can prove a daunting task -it will take around 20minutes to walk down to the bottom, and could easily take an hour or two to come back.

Being a major attraction, the Jog Falls is well connected by road and train. You can take bus or train to nearest town - Sagar and travel on local buses to Jog. If you are driving, the entire stretch of road is to be covered on a national highway which is mostly in good condition. It takes 7 to 8 hours to reach Jog Falls. A turn to the left into NH 206 in Tumkur from Tumkur road (NH 4) from Bangalore via Shimoga and Sagar towns will get you to the Jog Falls. The waterfall is just at a short 2 kms deviation from the highway.

If you want to see the waterfall at its best go during or just after the monsoon. In February it looks a bit pathetic. The area around it with its many forests and the Swarna Nadi River is worth a visit though. You can spend an entire day around the waterfall. If you hike the way down to the base of the fall, taking a dip in the water when you are in the gorge will be worth tour while. A drive to the other side of the Jog Falls can get close to the falling water. The Sharavati valley, which is a little further down the national highway, affords breathtaking view.

Quick Facts:
State: Karnataka
Location: 60 km (approx.) east of Honavar, NH206
Season: October to March - to catch the pleasant temperature; and July to August - to catch on the monsoons and the optimum force of the Jog Falls.
Transport: Your own or bus from Karwar, Honavar or Shimoga
Good for: All travelers
Guest house/ hotel: If you want something cheap, go to the youth hostel.
Restaurant/ dhaba: Lots of dhabas with the usual fare plus the KSTDC restaurant.
Local interest: Jog Falls waterfall, surrounding area including the Swarna Nadi river