Bandaje Arbi Falls Trek And Camping

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Bandaje Arbi is a hidden waterfall on top of a mountain, amidst the blanket of greenery surrounding it. This waterfall which is a tributary of the Netravati river is situated in Charmadi ghat range of western ghats in Dakshina Kannada. Usually, we will be witnessing the water plunging down from the foothills or from another hillock. However, in this case, you get a chance to stand next to the point from where the water jumps off the cliff from 200ft. The only way to experience Bandaje Arbi falls beauty is by undertaking a hard day\’s trek to the mountains. Be prepared for a tough and sweaty trek through dense forest, tall grasslands, and multiple streams. Don’t miss the dramatic view of sunsets that cast an orange glow in the sky, from the tip of the cliff.

You can camp overnight next to the waterfalls and gaze at billions of twinkling stars throughout the night. Try reaching the spot before sunset and pitch your tents on flatlands next to waterfalls. Also, collect firewoods to light the bonfire for cooking purposes as well as to keep wild animals away from camp.

Above all, you can even take a shower by jumping into the Bandaje stream that originates here. Although the place is a little clumsy and hard to stand comfortably. Even though the cliff is far from this spot, be careful as small slips can drag you along the stream and toss you off the cliff.

By the way, if you are wondering what Bandaje Arbi means. Bandaje is the name of the village and the word “Arbi” in regional Tulu language means “Waterfall”.

Bandaje Arbi Falls Trek Routes

Before you start your trek, you need to seek permission from the Belthangady forest authorities. It is a remote area with the paths that are confusing and in the recent past a lot of people lost their way into the wild, Hence, you will be allotted a local guide who will be guiding you throughout the trek.

Trek Trail 1: From Gowdara Mane Bandaje Village(Ujire Side)

Ujire Town( jeep ride)-( 15 Km)->Gowdara Mane in Bandaje Village(Trek start point) -9Km (5 To 6 hrs)->Bandaje Arbi Falls(Camping) -6Km  (2 To 3 hrs)->Ballalarayana Durga Fort -4Km(1 hr)->Durgadahalli( Trek End Point)

Trek starts from Bandaje Gowdara Mane or Valambra after taking permission from forest officers. It is about a 20 km trek and might take around 10 hrs to complete it in a single stretch.  

From Gowdara Mane to Grasslands

To begin with, you will be passing through a village and a couple of small streams. In the initial phase, as you are entering the forest it will be very difficult to find the route without the local guide. Once you cross the 2nd stream, the trek gets tougher as .you enter the dense forest that is steep and full of leeches. After about 1.5 hours of a hard trek journey, you will come across a big stream. Be careful while crossing this stream during peak monsoon, when the currents are high. Don’t forget to fill in your water bottles, as the next water source is waterfalls itself. Another 1.5 hours of trek inside the forest will lead you to grasslands.

Grasslands To Bandaje Arbi Falls

After a few minutes of walking on the grasslands, you will get the 1st glimpse of Bandaje Arbi Falls. However, it will take another hour to reach the waterfall, considering the steepness and campings gear you are carrying. Try drinking water and apply sunscreen lotion to defend or protect yourself against the heat of the scorching sun. The entrance of waterfalls is towards the left. But, you have to cross a small valley which is steep and has loose soil to reach the Waterfall. To get to the tip of the cliff you need to cross Bandaje stream. There are flatlands near the stream, where you can pitch a tent to stay overnight.

Note: Don’t go to the edge of the cliff, as many people have slipped off the cliff and lost their life.

You can descend in the same route as you climbed or via the Ballalarayana Durga fort

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Bandaje Arbi Falls To Ballalarayana Durga Fort

It is a 6 km trek from waterfall to the fort and it might take 2 to 3 hours to complete. Trek is mostly through the grasslands and the path is well marked. Try filling your water bottles before you depart, as there are no water sources. Strolling on the left side of Bandaje Arbi waterfall will lead you to the fort.

Initially, you have to climb a steep hillock for 30 odd minutes. Later, you will be hiking on almost flatland through the meadows for another 1.5 hrs before you arrive at the fort. Not to mention, the beautiful panoramic view of valleys, green rolling mountains, and misty surroundings that are breathtaking while on this route.

The fort is now in ruins, you can’t find anything except for shattered walls, a few arches, and a basement. The most important thing, don’t camp near the fort, as this place is home to cattle that attract leopards.

 Ballaladurga Fort to  Durgadahalli 

This is probably one of the easiest paths of the Bandaje Arbi Falls trek. Descend down is a well-marked path through grasslands and forests. On the way, you will come across 3 small water streams that will help to quench your thirst. It is a 4 km descent and it will take about 1 hour to reach the base. In the meanwhile, you can call auto-rickshaw driver number mentioned on the rocks to pick u up and drop in Sunkasale which is 5 km.

Trek Trail 2: From Durgadahalli (Sunkasale side)

You will be starting your trek from Durgadahalli Base from the Sunkasale side. The route is easy and well marked. You might not require a guide unless you are getting down from the other side. This route is exactly opposite to that of trek trail 1 or Ujire side of trekking. 

Sunkasale Town( jeep ride)-(5 Km)->Durgadahalli(Trek start point)-4Km(2 hr)->Ballalarayana Durga Fort -6Km (2 To 3 hrs)-> Bandaje Arbi Falls(Camping) -9Km ( 4 hrs)-> Gowdara Mane in Bandaje Village(Trek End Point))

Where To Eat Near Bandaje Arbi Falls

Except for a few small eateries and shops at the base, you will not have anything on the top. Hence, try carrying packed lunch, snacks, and water bottles to fill water in streams. If you are planning to cook, take small vessels, Maggie,  and raw materials that can be cooked easily on firewood. You can pack your lunch in Gowdara mane or from the hotel in Ujire.

How To reach Bandaje Arbi  Falls Trek Start Point

Trek Trail 1 start point: Bandaje Gowdra mane 

Bandaje Gowdra mane or Valambra town is just 15 Km from Ujire town near Dharmastala. You have to take a left turn before Mundaje village and continue for 5 Kilometers before taking a right turn near co-operative bank Hedya in Bandaje road to reach Valambra. The frequency of government buses or private buses in this route is very less. Hence, it is better to hire a jeep from Ujire or take your vehicle till the Bandaje Gowdra mane which is the starting point of the trek.

Trek Trail 2 start point: Durgadahalli Base Point

You can hop into frequently available buses from Bangalore to Horanadu. From Horanadu you can take a local bus or jeep to Sunkasale which is 30 Km away. From Sunkasale you can either walk or hire an auto-rickshaw to Durgadahalli which is the start point of freak.

Bandaje Arbi Waterfalls Information

Entry Fee: Rs 275/ head

Guide Charges: Rs 1000 To 1500(Try Bargaining)

Banjare Arbi Waterfall Trek Distance: 18 To 20 Km

Trek Duration: 8 To 10 Hours:

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Best Time To Visit: September to March

Permission: Required

Camping: Allowed Near Bandaje Arbi Waterfalls

Location: Bandaje Village 20 Km From Ujire Town, Dakshina Kannada

Distance From Bangalore: 320 Km.

Bandaje Arbi Waterfalls Trek, Contact Details That Might Be Handy 

Gowdara Mane Or Kishore Gowda: 99019 39829

Forest Officer: 99013 46952

Belthangady Forest Office: 08256-233189

Also, read:  Ermai Falls Trek.

Ermai Falls | A Secret Multi-layered Waterfall Near Ujire

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Ermai Falls, a secret multi-layered waterfall hidden in the foothills of the Ballalarayana Durga range of western ghats in Dakshina Kannada. It is a seasonal waterfall, which comes to full glory in the peak monsoon season. Thick foam-like water slides down the rocky terrain from 75ft  and forms a pool at the bottom. The pool is about 5 ft deep and you can waive off the day by going for a swim or taking dip water. However, avoid getting too close to waterfalls during monsoon as the water level tends to increase along with strong currents.

Apart from this, if you are an adventure freak then you can even climb up to different levels of Ermai falls. Usually, you will spot a few of them sitting behind waterfalls and clicking some great pics by making a climb till the middle layer. But, be careful and watch out every step you take as the rocks here are slippery and covered with moss. In fact, don’t climb without the guidance of locals or experienced trekkers as plenty of people have lost their life

In addition to this, there are 2 other waterfalls near Ermayi which can be trekked with the help of locals. However, avoid getting into the jungle on yourself because it is very confusing to find a way out.

This is a remote place and as per locals, gentle giants ”The  Elephants” visit this place at night to drink water. Hence, you will not be able to camp anywhere near Ermayi falls, Moreover, there are no eateries or restaurants in and around the corner, so it will be better to carry food.

 Ermai Falls Trek Route

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Ermai falls are just 3 to 4 Kilometers from Kajoor Darga( masjid) which lies on the main road. You can either hike all the way or take a 2 Kilometer ride, followed by a hike to reach waterfalls. As this waterfall is stuck in dense forests it can only be approached by foot after a certain point.

Once you get down the vehicle, ask the locals for directions, as there are no signboards to guide. Trekking trails involve crossing a few streams, hiking along with some private farms, and strolling parallel to streams amidst jungles for 1.5 Kilometers to reach Ermai Falls. If in case, you are heading to this place during monsoon, when water flow is high, then you can take footbridges built of areca nut logs to cross the stream. Even though you can hear the sound of water gushing down from a distance, waterfalls can only be seen when to get to the final point.

How To Reach Ermayi Waterfalls

Ermayi is 40 mins ride from Ujire town near Dharmastala.No frequent bus services, so it is always better to hire a jeep from Ujire. If you are heading to this destination in your own vehicle, be careful as roads are not in great condition. You have to take a left turn before Mundaje village in the Kajoor Darga route for 10 Km. And, just before the Darga, take the right in Ermayi falls route. Try heading on this road for 1.5 km, followed by a 1.5 Km hike that will lead you to waterfalls.

Rember there are no signboards to guide and even google map routes might miss guide. So, it is better to ask the locals for an accurate route.

Ermayi Falls Information

Timings: 7 Am to 5 Pm

Entry Fee: Rs 20/ head

Trek Distance: 1.5 Km

Difficulty Level: Easy

Trek Duration: 30 Mins

Camping: Not Allowed

Location: Near Kajoor Darga

Distance From Bangalore: 320 Km

Also, read: Didupe Falls Trek

Didupe Falls | Kadamagundi Falls Trek 

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Didupe falls is an untouched beauty that hides at the base of Charmadi ghat in western ghats of Dakshina Kannada Crystal clear water plunges from a 70 ft rocky cliff and splashes the ground with a great force. This falls which is 40 Kilometers from Ujire town is surrounded by rocky terrains and dense misty forests on most sides.

During monsoon, when Didupe falls is in full glory, even if you stand 20 meters apart, the drizzle from the waterfall is sure to get you drenched. A beautiful natural pool is formed at the base of the waterfalls. However, try taking a dip and not swim, as this pool is not very deep and wide, you might get hurt. On the other hand, you can get beneath the gushing water to take a bath or click some great pics. Not to mention the stunning rainbows that are formed as the sun rises through the horizon

This waterfall is also known as “Kadamagundi fall” or “Anadka falls” by locals who reside here. Be prepared to hike for 2 Km from Didupe village into the forest. There are multiple routes to the falls and in that most famous ones are through the stream and areca nut field.

Trek To Didupe or Kadamangudi Waterfalls 

Once you reach the village, ask the locals for directions, as there are no signboards to guide you. Besides this, landslides keep happening in these regions during monsoons, so it is always better to a villager as in which is the best-suited path at that point in time.

To begin with, seek permission from the forest department before you start the trek. It is a 30 mins trek and mostly you will be trekking through the forests, narrow streams, and private farmlands. Watch your foot while crossing the streams as the rocks are super slippery and full of moss. Although it is an adventurous trek, it is not at all risky. As you are inching towards the waterfall, the sound of the water crashing the rocks is sure to excite you.

How To Reach Didupe Falls

Didupe town is 40 mins ride from Ujire town near Dharmastala. No frequent bus services, so it is always better to hire a jeep from Ujire. If you are heading to this destination in your own vehicle, be careful as roads are not in great condition. You have to take a left turn before Mundaje village in the Kajake route for 15 Km.On the way to Didupe you will even come across Ermayi fall route Once you reach Malavanthige post office enquire the villagers about the Kadamagundi falls which requires 2 kilometers of trekking.

Didupe Falls Information

Trek Distance: 2 to 3 Km

Trek Duration: 30 Mins

Permission: Required

Camping: Not Allowed.

Location Near Malavanthige Post Office In Didupe Village

Distance From Bangalore: 320 Km

Also, read: Ethina Bhuja Trek Chikmagalur

Kambala Race | Buffalo Race In Karnataka

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Kambala is a popular and unique festival (or sports) that happens annually among the farming communities in Dakshina Kannada. To your surprise, the main superstar of this festival is the big Buffaloes. In other words, Kambala is a buffalo race that happens on the slushy paddy fields between a pair of buffaloes that is driven by farmers. These races that take place between the months of November and March are organized by Tuluva landlords and households.

Kambala is an age-long tradition that traces back to 1000 years. This festival is dedicated to Lord Kadri Manjunatha, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Earlier days, this was celebrated to please god for a good harvest and to keep crops away from diseases. And, also for the entertainment of villages of this region. Slowly these traditions are officially converted to races, mainly to preserve the tradition and carry forwards the customs to future generations.

Usually, the winner of this race is gifted with banana and coconut. However, in recent years as these races are pulling in a huge number of crowds, the winners are gifted with cold or silver coins. Above all, winning this competition is all about pride for farmers rather than money involved in it.

There are 4 major categories of Kambala namely Negilu, Hagga, Adda Halage, and Kene Halege. Winners of these events are judged based on various factors. These races are conducted on slushy paddy fields that are about 150 meters in length and 10 meters in width. Over 50 races are held annually and nearly 130 to 180 pairs of buffaloes participate in it

Initially, it was known by the name “Karaga” but now it is called Kambala. The word Kambala is derived from Dravidian origin word “ Kampa Kala” which means “slushy Muddy fields”

Hoysala Kings Association With Kambala

As per the legends, it was Hoysala rulers, who wanted to use trained buffaloes for their wars. After noticing the speed of buffaloes, they started racing them against one another. Later the tradition was carried forward by feudal lords and now it is organized by normal people.

Famous Places Where Kambala Can be Viewed

Of course, Kadri Kambala Field in Mangalore is gotta be on top of the list. It is a star-studded event which is usually conducted in the close premises of Kadri Manjunatha Temple. These sports were patronized by the Kings Of Alupa Kingdom who ruled Mangalore 300 years ago. For the above reasons, this festival is popularly known as “Devara Kambala” or “Arasu Kambala”.Another place, where you can see huge followers is Pilikula.

Apart from this, you can visit places like Bajagodi, Baladi Beedu, Puttur, Gulvadi, Vandaru Kamala Ketu, Uppinagadi, etc.

Usually, in Vandaro and Choradi village you can witness this festival being celebrated to please god for a good harvest and it is a non-competitive event.

How are Buffaloes Trained

Nowadays, Kambala is organized Professionally with a huge crowd to cheer them. Buffaloes are trained and prepared well throughout the year, just to participate in events. These beasts are provided with proper food on time, massaged regularly to prevent injuries, medical checkups are done frequently, and even a personal caretaker is appointed to look after them. In addition to this, there are main owners who have gone one step ahead and built swimming pools just for Buffaloes to relax.

Not to mention, the fact that these buffaloes are decorated in a beautiful way with lots of colors.

In the recent past, these events are held at nights under floodlights. Whole areas will be lit up with colorful lights, small handicraft shops, and eateries. Every year nearly 20,000 people come to witness Kambala.

Also, Read: Udupi Travel Guide.

Best Places To Visit In Dakshina Kannada

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Dakshina Kannada or South Canara is a beautiful district in Karnataka that is stuck between western ghats in the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. It is also called as Tulunadu by locals and port city Mangalore is the headquarters of this spellbound beauty. This district houses some of the prominent pilgrimage centers like Dharmasthala, Kukke Subramanya, Kadri Manjunatha, and Kodri Gokarnanatha. Besides this, there are beaches, trekking places, forests, mountains, waterfalls, etc,  which is bound to excite nature lovers and adventurists. Culturally and traditionally rich Dakshina Kannada is filled with Abundant history, with an interesting amalgamation of tradition and folk arts. Sports and art forms like Yaksha Gana, Tiger Dance, Kambala, and Cock Fight have been passed on from generation to generation. In fact, this post is going to deal with places you can visit and things to do in Dakshina Kannada.

Places To Visit And Things To Do in Dakshina Kannada

Best Beaches in Dakshina Kannada

Ullal Beach Mangalore

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Ullal is a quaint little fishing village that is tucked on the southern banks of the Netravati river. There is a beautiful beach called Ullal Beach that is set amidst casuarinas groves on the coastline. Ullal beach has become a huge hit among travellers and locals due to calmness and serenity that surrounds this place in abundance. Palm trees all along the shores and 14 acres of lush green casuarinas groves forest provide a unique touch to this beach.

Know More About:  Ullal Beach

Tannirbhavi Beach Mangalore

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If you looking to have some me-time with a pinch of water sports and seafood while in Mangalore, then head to Tannirbhavi beach. It is a deserted beach that is tucked away in one corner at about 11 kilometers from the city. Tannirbhavi beach can be reached either through Kuloor bridge or by taking a ferry from Sultan battery via the Gurupura river.

Bluish-green waters, golden sand, palm trees along the seashore, clear sky, serene surroundings, and cool breeze due to a lot of greenery are the major highlights that bring in travelers to this beach. You can witness calm backwaters of the Gurupura river merging in the Arabian sea by walking a few meters along with the shore towards the south. Above all, watching the sun running down the horizon and taking a dip in the sea is sure to provide a soothing effect to the mind.

Know More About:    Tannirbhavi Beach in Mangalore

Panambur Beach Mangalore

Most hot and happening Panambur beach is located near the port city Mangalore. With glittering golden sands, blueish water, clean seashore, lip-smacking seafood, scenic backwaters, and dramatic sunsets make this place a hotspot among travelers This beach which is 12 km from the main town is sure to excite all the beach babies with a wide range of activities it has to offer. 

To your surprise, this is the only beach in India that is under the maintenance of the private organization. Undoubtedly, one of the safest and best-maintained beaches across India for a picnic or get together along with family or friends.

Know More About:  Panambur Beach

Surathkal Beach Mangalore

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Surathkal Beach, an unspoilt destination with endless stretches of shores meeting the Arabian Sea in the port city of Mangalore. Despite being just 13 km from the main city, this beach hasn’t lost one bit of its natural charm. Its coastline is studded with rocks, silky smooth sand, few palm trees, shallow blueish water, and secluded surroundings make it an ideal spot for a picnic. Mostly flooded with college kids on the weekends as this is situated right next to reputed NIT college. Hence, Surathkal beach is also popularly known as NIT Beach.

If you are a morning person, then head to the beach in the wee hours to get a true essence. Stroll a few meters onshore from the Surathkal beach towards fishermen village and experience the local side of this place  You can spot many fishermen laying their fishing nets and marching into the sea on their boats to catch fish. Apart from this, you can witness baby crabs crawling in silence into the ocean.

Know More About:     Surathkal Beach

What To Eat in Dakshina Kannada

Since most part of the Dakshina Kannada is the coastline, don’t forget to lay your hands on Seafood. Bangude Pulimunchi, Buthai Meen curry, fish fry, Kori Rotti with chicken curry, Chick Sukka, Pork Bafat, Pork Sorpotel, and Chicken Ghee roast are some dishes you can gobble down. Outside of this, try out Beeja-Manoli Upkari, Neer dosa, Kadubu, Daali Thoy, Bibbe-Upkari (cashew based), Val Val, Avnas Ambe Sasam, Kadgi Chakko, Pagila Podi, Malpuri, Patrode, and Chane Qashi. Mangalore Bajji, Mangalore Bun.