Waterfalls have always been a sight to behold and one of the finest tourist attractions all over the world. In India, Jog Falls happen to be the third-highest waterfalls in the country after Nohkalikai in Meghalaya and Dudhsagar and is created on the beautiful Sharavathi River.
It is thus no surprise that this destination in Karnataka draws in thousands of tourists every year to experience this spectacle. It is situated in the Shimoga District and is around 30km from Sagara.
Jog Falls, also famous as Gerusoppaa falls, is the highest untiered waterfalls in India as it drops directly and does not stream onto the rocks.
History of Jog Falls
The Sharavathi River forms these beautiful falls, and the height is roughly 253 meters. The flow of the river through the Western Ghats caused the creation of the Jog Falls, and the river then drains into the Arabian Sea.
Jog Falls also go by other names such as Gersoppa Falls and Jogada Gundi.
Things To Do and Major Attractions
There are lots of places to visit in Jog Falls, and the surrounding attractions also account for some popular tourist attractions. While you are here, you must enjoy a boat ride at the Tunga Anicut Dam.
This dam is constructed across the Tungabhadra River and has some sights to leave you spellbound. You should also visit Honnemaradu, a place in the backwaters of the Sharavathi River.
This is a small island that the Linganmakki Dam creates, and the water-sports enthusiasts are sure to have a gala time around here. Another popular attraction of the Jog Falls is the Lion Tiger Reserve, located nearby, where you can book yourself a safari through the forests.
While visiting Jog Falls, you would cross the beautiful town of Sagara. Explore the ancient temples around this place and breathe in the rich cultural diversity of this region.
Another popular part of Jog Falls sightseeing involves a trip to Siddapura, a town that offers some of the most impressive views of the Sahyadri Mountains ranges. A trip here is sure to /offer some picture-perfect moments of the vacation. Besides the Ganesh Festival that takes place in Sirsi, it is also famous for the numerous waterfalls around the region.
The lush green forests surrounding the town are also a major attraction for the nature-lover tourist.
People and Culture of Jog Falls
People here are famous to have simplistic rural lives, and you can enjoy your vacation away from the pollution of the cities.
The Ganesh Festival is the most popular festival when the Black marble idol is worshiped in Sirsi near the falls.
Local Food and Popular Shopping Items
The local food majorly consists of famous South Indian delicacies, and you have both non-vegetarian and vegetarian options available. We would advise you to carry some food and water of your own, but if you have to eat outside, we recommend a meal at the Maurya Hotel restaurant.
Gandhi Bazaar and Nehru Road are some of the popular shopping destinations around this place. Jewelry, home décor, and other locally made items are popular among the shoppers.
Best Time to Visit Jog Falls
The perfect time to plan a trip to this heavenly destination is between the months of August to December. The climate is perfect, and the Falls are in full bloom after the monsoons.
Availability of Accommodation Type
There are several forms of accommodation including hotels and home-stays. You can choose from the likes of Jog Sharadha Home-stay, Aloke Home-stay, and Hotel Mayura.
By Air
The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport. It is 243 km away from Jog Falls. Further, one can hire a taxi service for Jog Falls.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Shimoga Railway Station. About 101 km from the falls, trains connect to major cities in India. Next, one can hire a taxi from the station to Jog Falls.
By Road
The roads are smooth and connect to all the major cities of the country. Easy way to reach the falls, one can go for state bus or private bus services.