Does the sight of milky white water gushing down from a dizzying height enthral you? Well then, you will find Hebbe Falls to be a unique treat. Located near Kemmanagundi hill station in Karnataka, Hebbe Falls boasts an awe-inspiring height of 551 feet. It cascades down in two stages before hitting the pool below. While Chikka Hebbe is the smaller waterfall, Dodda Hebbe is the bigger one. The surrounding forests and lush coffee plantations add to the beauty of Hebbe Falls and make it one of the most wonderful places to visit in and around Kemmanagundi.

The waterfall is situated inside Bhadra Tiger Reserve and the journey to the falls is a memorable experience altogether. The dense forests and mild aroma of coffee beans will refresh your senses and leave you mesmerised at the same time. And if you visit the falls during or after the monsoon season, you can hear the water rumbling down at great speed even from a distance. Hebbe Waterfalls undoubtedly is one of the best natural hotspots in the Chikmagalur district.

Hebbe Falls, Kemmanagundi Information

Location

Chikmagalur District, Kesavinamane, Karnataka

Attraction Category

Waterfall

Timings

6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 7 days a week

Best Time to Visit

August to January

Time Needed

2-3 hours

Entry Fee

Free entry

Jeep Ride Charges

INR 500 per person

INR 4000 for 8 people

Nearest Airport

Mangaluru International Airport (244 km)

Nearest Railway Station

Tarikere Railway Station (36 km)

Nearest Bus Station

Chikmagalur Bus Stand (65 km)

Hebbe Falls: Things to do

There are so many things to do in Kemmanagundi’s Hebbe Falls, whether you like to take things easy or pump up your adrenaline with exciting activities. Here is a list that can help you plan a wonderful time:

  1. Trekking: The falls are located amidst dense forests, so you can enjoy a 10 km long trek to reach the same. The paths can be a bit steep and narrow at places, but the experience is truly amazing. From rare species of plants to exotic wildlife like elephants, wild boars and spotted deer, there is much to see and admire during the trek.
  2. Swimming: The pool at the base of the falls is great for enjoying a short swim. It is believed that the water of Hebbe Falls is infused with the beneficial properties of herbs and taking a dip here can cure certain skin diseases. Hence, the falls are quite popular among both locals and tourists.
  3. Photography: If you are passionate about nature photography, you can click some amazing pictures here. The waterfalls, coffee plantations, dense forests, rare plants, small ponds – there are many wonderful Insta-worthy spots here.
  4. Picnic: You can also plan a picnic near the falls and spend some fun time with your loved ones. The cool breeze, sight of the milky-white water, and colourful birds flying around can make the entire experience worthwhile.
  5. Pilgrimage: On your way to the falls, you can also pay your respects at the Chowdeshwari Maha Shakthi Devathe temple. This shrine is quite popular among the locals who come here to offer their prayers and take a dip in the stream nearby.

Attractions near Hebbe Falls, Kemmanagundi

Besides Hebbe Falls, there are plenty of other places to visit in Kemmanagundi, especially for nature lovers and those who are religious. Hence, you can easily spend a couple of days in this serene and picturesque hill station and enjoy being close to nature. Some must-visit attractions near Hebbe Falls are:

  • Bhadra Tiger Reserve (4 km)
  • Krishnarajendra Botanical Park (5 km)
  • Rock Garden (5 km)
  • Z Point (8 km)
  • Shanti Falls (8 km)
  • Kallathigiri Falls (14 km)
  • Galikere (21 km)
  • Shiva Temple (35 km)
  • Madagadakere (49 km)
  • Ayyana Kere (50 km)
  • Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (57 km)

The rich and spicy Malnad dishes served at the restaurants in Kemmanagundi are bound to tickle your taste buds if you are a foodie. You can also relish Kannada cuisine and North-Indian dishes at this hill station. And when you’re shopping in Kemmanagundi, remember to buy fresh coffee powder and handicrafts from the local stores here.

Tips for visiting Hebbe Falls

  • The trip to Hebbe Falls can take around 3 hours, including a one-hour Jeep ride (both sides). Hence, you must reach the checkpoint latest by 3 PM.
  • Those planning to trek to the falls must reach the checkpoint in the morning hours.
  • Private vehicles are not allowed after the checkpoint. Hence, you must take the forest Jeep to reach Hebbe Falls. Jeep rides can be booked online as well.
  • After the Jeep ride, you need to take a short trek to reach the falls.
  • Carry a backpack with enough food and water, extra clothes, towels, medicines and other essentials as there are no shops nearby.
  • The 10-km long trek can be a tedious one, and hence, if you have any underlying health conditions, avoid it.
  • If the trek route looks confusing, you can follow the electric wiring fence to get to the endpoint.
  • Wear comfortable clothes and proper trekking shoes.
  • Avoid trekking during the monsoon season as the path can get very slippery and infested with leeches. Also, fog and heavy rains can make the visibility almost zero.

 Hebbe Falls is undoubtedly one of the most scenic and popular places to visit in Kemmanagundi, whether you find joy in exploring nature, spotting wildlife or trekking. The beauty of the falls and the lush surrounding are sure to fill you with peace, joy and serenity. Hence, whenever you’re visiting Kemmanagundi or Chikmagalur, make sure you spend some time near this beautiful cascade. There are many resorts, homestays and hotels in Kemmanagundi, which is why you can find good accommodation easily. However, to keep things affordable, make sure you book your stay in advance.

Suggested Read: places to visit in Karnataka