“Long staircases don’t create good hikers; you need mountains.”
Narasimha Parvatha and Barkana Falls are two popular trekking destinations in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. The trek is challenging, with steep inclines and rocky terrain. It is a 2-day trek and is ideal for experienced trekkers. The walk starts from Kinga, a small village about 8km from Agumbe. The hike offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, and on a clear day, one can even see the Arabian Sea from the summit.
The Barkana Falls trek is a relatively more straightforward trek that takes about 3-4 hours to complete. The trek starts from a small village called Barkana and takes you through lush green forests and rocky terrain before reaching the falls. The falls are picturesque and offer a refreshing swim in the pool at the base of the falls.
Both treks offer an opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats and experience the beauty of nature. It is recommended that you carry enough food and water, and wear appropriate footwear as the terrain can be slippery. It is also recommended to have a first aid kit and inform someone of your trekking plans before heading out.
It is recommended to carry enough water and food, wear good trekking shoes and have a first aid kit, and also best to do this trek in a group. Also, it’s important to note that the hike is closed during the monsoon season (June-September) due to heavy rainfall and landslides.
About Agumbe
Agumbe is a small village in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. It is situated in the Thirthahalli taluk of the Shimoga district and is located about 65 km from the district headquarters. The village is surrounded by dense forests and is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich biodiversity, and beautiful waterfalls. The Western Ghats, where it is located, is considered one of the eight hottest biodiversity hotspots in the world and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. Agumbe is also famous for its sunset point, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding valley. It is known for its heavy rainfall and is often referred to as the “Cherrapunji of the South”. It is also home to the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, which researches the biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
Overview of the Barkana Falls
The waterfall is in the Agumbe Reserve Forest in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. It is one of the highest waterfalls in the state, with a height of around 830 Ft (253 m). The falls are situated on the Sita River and are surrounded by lush green forests and an abundance of wildlife. It is a popular spot for trekking and nature photography. The falls can be accessed through a challenging but scenic trek from Agumbe. The best time to visit Barkana Falls is during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak.
The Falls are located in the Western Ghats mountain range of India. The falls are an impressive sight, cascading down a rocky cliff face from a height of over 300 Ft. The crystal clear water of the falls can be seen from miles away, making them a picturesque sight. The surrounding forests and wildlife make the falls an ideal spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The falls are also home to several rare birds and animals, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Overview of the Narasimha Parvatha
Narasimha Parvatha is a mountain peak in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. It is situated in the Kudremukh National Park and is known for its challenging trekking trail. The trek here starts from Kudremukh, a small hill station located in the Chikmagalur district. The trail is a combination of rocky terrain and steep climbs, and the trekkers have to cross several streams and small waterfalls on the way. The trek offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, including the Kudremukh peak, the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats.
The trekking trail is considered to be moderately difficult and it is recommended to have a good level of fitness and experience before attempting it. The trek can be completed in two days, with the first day being spent on reaching the base camp and the second day for the summit. The best time to trek here is between October and March when the weather is clear and the trail is less slippery.
Step-by-step hiking guide to Agumbe’s Narasimha Parvatha and Barkana Falls
- The trek to Narasimha Parvatha and Barkana Falls in Agumbe starts from the Kigga Temple, which is the base camp for the trek.
- From Kigga Temple, the trek takes you through dense forests and rocky terrain. It is recommended to start the trek early in the morning to avoid the heat and to have enough time to complete the trek before sunset.
- The first stop on the trek is the Narasimha Parvatha, which is a small hill with a temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats.
- After visiting the temple, the trek continues towards Barkana Falls, located about 3 km from the Narasimha Parvatha. The steep and rocky trail to the falls, so it is important to be cautious and wear proper trekking shoes.
- The falls are located in a secluded area and offer a refreshing break from the heat of the trek. It is possible to take a dip in the cool waters of the falls, but be aware that the water can be cold.
- After taking a break at the falls, the trek back to Kigga Temple begins. The trek back is a bit easier as it is mostly downhill.
- It is important to carry enough water and snacks and wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the trek. It is also advisable to carry a first aid kit and to inform someone about your trek itinerary.
- The trek typically takes around 5-6 hours to complete, including breaks.
The trek to Narasimha parvatha & barkana falls is an ideal weekend getaway for adventure seekers. With its breathtaking views, it is sure to make a lasting impression. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
