Trek to Ubbalamadugu Waterfalls (Tada falls)

I soon realized that no journey carries one far unless, as it extends into the world around us, it goes an equal distance into the world within.

– Lillian Smith

Ubbalamadugu Waterfalls also called Tada Waterfalls or Kambakam Waterfalls is a beautiful waterfall, located in Tada mandal of Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh. It is situated on the border of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

The falls are located in a forest called the Kaambakam forest or Sidduliah Kona. It is ideal for hiking, trekking and picnics.

To reach the falls the one must go through the village Varadaiahpalem (just before you enter the town Tada), about 12 km away of which only 7 km is paved. To reach the actual waterfall requires trekking. Local transportation available till Ubbalamadugu Forest Dept outpost (check post). Once you reach the check post, men at the outpost collect Rs.50/- per vehicle or Rs.5/- per a person. Vehicles are allowed till the Vanaruchi canteen.

From there to till you reach the first rest point which is about 3 km from the start, it is a fairly easy trek. You just have to take the pathway which is mostly flat and straight. At the end of this phase after half an hour of trek, you will reach a Siva Temple.

You have to cross a wide and deep stream behind the temple at this point. Depth varies from 5 feet to 2 feet. Be careful while crossing this stream. After this point the trek ahead is not going to be easy. There are lots of submerged boulders.

The trek from this point to the very top takes around two and an half hours and it involves walking through water, climbing man sized boulders, rocks and inclines. There were some arrow marks which will help to reach the final destination. Keep following all this till you reach a place where you think it all ends. On the way to the top, you can see a lot of small pools. Once you reach the extreme end of the originating waterfall, you can really enjoy the beautiful falls, which fall from a height of 100 meters. The water is awesome - cold, clear and pure. The water from the falls on the very top is pure and so you can find drinking water there.

BEST TIME TO VISIT:

The ideal time to visit Ubbalamadugu falls is in between August to December months.

GETTING THERE?

Ubbalamadugu falls is located about 80 km from Chennai and 35 km from Srikalahasti.

First of all, to reach Ubbalamadugu water falls, you need to reach Tada. Once you Tada, you have to go to Varadaiahpalem and choose between walking and taking an auto to the Ubbalamadugu falls.

By Bus:

Buses are available from Chennai, Tirupati, Srikalahasti, Nellore and other parts.

By Train:

Trains from Chennai heading to Sullurpeta from Chennai Central pass via Tada. There is a train every two hours. Major Trains halt at Sullurpeta, from there you can reach Tada or Varadaiahpalem by auto-rickshaw or bus.

By Car:

Tada is located on National Highway No-5.

People coming from Chennai by Bus:

Get Bus no.114 - 'Chennai to Kalahasthi' from Chennai Koyembedu bus stand. It drops you till Varadayya palem, from their autos are available till the check post.

People coming from Chennai by Car:

To reach Tada, cross the Padi junction in Chennai and take the red hills route and join NH-5. Drive for about 60 Km and you will reach Tada. Once you reach Tada, take the left which is right next to the bridge and you will reach Varadiah Palem. Ask the people for directions from here. You have to take a left turn to reach Tada falls and there are absolutely no indications at this point.

People coming from Sulluru peta:

Tada 13 km on the Tada to Tirupathi road. One could take a share-auto or buses run by the APSRTC.

SURROUNDING PLACES TO SEE:

1. Pulicat Lake is the second largest brackish – water lake or lagoon in India
2. Chengalamma temple in Sullurpeta. The temple don't have any doors.
3. Sriharikota houses one of the two satellite launch centres in India.
4. Tirumala- famous hill town, dedicated to the Lord Venkateswara.
5. Srikalahasti - ancient Shiva Temple.

CAUTIONS:

• It is not advisable to go with your family. There are too many drunks and guy gangs - unsuitable for women only groups or couples.
• There are no food/hotels anywhere. Carry biscuits or snacks of your preference.
• With limited accommodation available nearby, the best locations to stay are at Srikalahasti or Varadaiahpalem town. Staying in the forest beyond sun set is not advised.
• It is accessible only by physically fit people. Carry some first aid like antiseptic cream, bandages etc.
• Be very careful as the huge builders will be very slippery because of the continuous flow of water.