Todikana Devaragundi waterfalls

Arantodu: A Todikana Devaragundi waterfall is very attractive to look and attracts visitors towards it. The beauty of the waterfalls can be enjoyed from a little distance, but venturing into the waters could prove fatal.

Earlier a few tourists who had ventured into the water were pulled away by the water current and ended up in deep trouble. Hence presently, tourists are banned from going beneath the waterfall.

Monsoon season gives birth to many waterfalls which eventually dwindle during the summers. But Devaragundi waterfall located on the borders of Kodagu and Dakshina Kannada district is an exception to this. The waterfall is available throughout the year giving pleasure to nature lovers. Even though the amount of water may reduce during the summers, it does not hamper the beauty of the waterfall.

The route towards the waterfall is an easy one. There is private bus service from Sullia to Todikana. Average time required reaching the location by bus or private vehicle is 40 and 30 minutes respectively. Located 11 km from Sullia, Aranthodu village lies along Sullia – Madikeri road. Mallikarjuna Temple Dwara is located on the right hand side of the road through which one has to enter to reach the temple located at a distance of 6 km.

From one side of the temple proceeds a dirt road via Patti – Bhagamandala and the waterfall becomes visible after travelling a distance of 1.8 km. Continue travelling along the route and the mind achieves a state of peace listening to the flow of the little streams that join together to form the waterfalls. The area is surrounded by green hills, arecanut/coconut cultivation swaying slowly to the cool breeze. The random birds’ choir delights the mind with their songs. Venturing a little ahead and the sounds of worms gnawing within the tree do create a slight feeling of fear. The area is infested with leeches during the monsoon season. Watch the waterfall and enjoy, but please do not venture into the water, request the locals.

Board has been installed

It is dangerous to venture into Devaragundi waters. Due to this reason, no one should enter to the bottom of the waterfall. Many have lost their lives here before, and hence a caution board has been installed here. There is no objection to viewing the waterfalls from afar and enjoying its beauty – Anand Kallagadde, Manager, Todikana Mallikarjuna Temple

Small pit

From far away, the lower part of the waterfall appears like a small depression. Also it is very narrow. However, the depth of the assumed depression is a very deep pit. Besides, there is presence of a strong whirlpool here in which many have got trapped and lost their lives, explain the locals. Four persons who had come to gaze upon the beauty of the waterfall, ventured into the water only to lose their lives tragically.