Its a waterfall on the "Kaveri" or "Cauvery" river in the Dharampuri district of Tamil Nadu. It is around 180-200 kms from Bangalore.
We had planned to start at 8 am , but managed to start by 8.30 am!
The route was awesome, almost without any speed breakers :) with two tolls on the way - one at Electronic City (Rs 50) and the other one at Krishnagiri (Forgot the amount).
We reached Dharampuri at around 11.30 am. Hogenakkal Falls are around 48 kms from there. It was an enjoyable ride - driving through the villages with lots of curves.
Then started the collection part. We had to shell out 20 bucks for entering the Hogenakkal, then entry into book of forest range took Rs 10. (He didn't give a receipt, so I think it was bribe), then a parking fee of Rs 20
It was surprisingly hot, even in the supposedly cold month of December! Not worth going in summer for sure. Now I know, why the climate of Tamil Nadu is classified as hot, hotter and hottest. But, during monsoon, it would be a scene to watch :)
There are three major attractions at Hogenakkal:
1. The Falls
2. The Coracle Ride
3. The Crocodile Park
We skipped the third part as it was getting hotter with every passing minute.
A Hanging Bridge needs to be crossed to go to the falls. You have to buy a ticket of Rs 5 per head and Rs 10 for the camera. To cross the falls or for having a bath you have to spend again(forgot the amount). Again Rs 3 per head to climb to a tower like thing to get a broader view. The view was worth it :)
The best part was the coracle(round shaped boat) ride. It was simply amazing, we had to sit in a particular direction, so that we do not fall into the water :)
There was also a 2 hour trip in the coracle, which we avoided as it was getting difficult to bear the scorching heat (especially fir KayCee).
The scenic beauty of the place is definitely breath taking! After all, Mr Maniratnam did not shoot "Raavan" here for nothing :)
However, I found the falls to be ill maintained. People use shampoo and soap to bath in the water. Locals were washing clothes. Trained people were giving oil massages, I believe its of some medicinal value. The surrounding area was also devoid of any good hotels and there was lack of cleanliness.
We started from there at around 2.30 pm. Had late lunch at the Ananda Bhavan on the highway and reached home by 7 pm.
On the whole, it was a wonderful journey and great day! A perfect destination for 1 day trip from Bangalore :)
Below are some pictures:
The Hanging Bridge
The Coracles
1 comment:
beautiful.... seems interesting place to look forward for travel.... nature's own area kinda...
last pic reminds me of song "Chotti si Asha"
:) thanks for sharing it...
Dis is my best part being a travel enthusiast....
Post a Comment