The thriving Jog falls

Jog Falls in Karnataka is the second-highest plunge waterfall in India. It is located near Sagara in Shimoga, Kannada state.

The waterfall is locally known as Geruoppe Falls, Gersoppa Falls and Jogada Gundi. The word ‘Jog’ is a Kannada word, which means falls. It is said that the word ‘Jog’ is derived from the word Javalu, which means water coming out forming wetlands.

Its height is 253 m and width is 472 m. Its formed by the Sharavati river when it splits in to four parts and jumps from the Deccan plateau to the plains. The four parts are called Raja, Rocket, Roarer and Rani. Associated with the falls is the Lingamakki dam and hydroelectric power station visioned by Sri M Vishveshwarayya.

There are many waterfalls in Asia - and also in India - which drop from a higher altitude. But, unlike most of such falls, Jog Falls is untiered, i.e., it drops directly and does not stream on to rocks. Thus, it can be described as the First-highest untiered waterfall in India.

During summers the waterfall will reduce to small narrow streams while during monsoon and winters it will be roaring with water. The beauty of the waterfalls is enhanced by the lush green surroundings, which provides a scenic backdrop to the falls. The falls will be spectacular if the water falling down was more.

Visitors can hike down to the base of the falls and can take a plunge in the water. There are several points from where you can view the beauty of the Jog falls. Watkins platform is one of the popular points to view the falls. One can also get scenic look of the falls from the rock outcrop near Bombay Bungalow. The area near the falls is also ideal for trekking.

WHAT TO SEE?

Other places to visit near the falls are the Swarna Nadi riverbank, the Sharavathi valley, the Dabbe falls, Linganamakki Dam, Tunga Anicut Dam, Thyvare Koppa Lion and Tiger reserve and Sharavati River.

BEST TIME TO VISIT:

The best season to visit Jog falls is the monsoons i.e., August and September are the best months to visit. It is the ideal time to see the waterfall. The water falls with great force that it creates a cloud of vapour. October to January is also fine. But during summer the water will be very less.

FOOD:

There are only a handful number of hotels and lodges at the falls.

WHERE TO STAY

There are plenty of accommodation options near Jog Falls in Shimoga. One can find many budget and mid-range hotels. During season its advisable to book in advance and come i.e., in the months of August to December. One can also opt to stay at state run tourist hotels.

HOW TO REACH?

• The road distance is 385 kms from Bangalore and 160 km from Hubli city.
• Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation KSRTC runs one Rajahamsa till the waterfall. Alternatively one can reach Shimoga by direct KSRTC or Railway services from Bangalore. From Shimoga private and KSRTC buses are available till the falls.

DISCLAIMER: Images from Inter net.