Iruppu Falls

Iruppu Falls, also known as Iruppu Waterfalls, is one of the beautiful natural attractions in the Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka, India. It lies on the River Lakshmana Tirtha, which falls within the Brahmagiri Hills, part of the Western Ghats. Iruppu Falls is popular for its serene surroundings, lush green landscapes, and religious significance. The waterfall is an adventure place for enthusiasts, trekkers, and pilgrims to share an adventure with the perfect combination of happiness, peace, and spiritual experiences in their lives. Iruppu Falls falls to a distance of nearly 170 feet, offering marvellous sight. The beauty that falls is fantastic and booming, as in the case of a monsoon, where full flow makes a noise when throwing in the pool. There is lush surrounding as its fall has dense forests of tropical trees, bamboo, and ferns. It makes this quite an extremely serene and refreshing destination. 

This Lakshmana Tirtha River is one of the streams that flow through the Iruppu Falls. It is one of the tributaries that starts from Brahmagiri Hills. People say that the water coming from the falls is pure, and most visitors to the region take a cool bath there in the waters of falls. The falls present a beautiful view and serenity, so they are the best places for relaxation and photography. Scenics around Iruppu Falls are marvellous, from the rolling hills and the acres of green coffee plantations to the vast and thick forests. This spot is just the right choice for a nature enthusiast and photographer. With flora and fauna in full bloom during monsoon time, there's also wide scope for bird watching. 

Iruppu Falls is a prominent tourist place and a holy site for Hindus. Myths in the locality say that the waterfalls reference the ancient Hindu epic known as Ramayana. It is said that this River, Lakshmana Tirtha, was named after the brother of Lord Rama Lakshmana. One day , when Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana were in exile, the latter thirsted for water. He had not been able to reach water at that moment. So, an arrow shot into the earth produced water from the place, and it began flowing as Lakshmana Tirtha River and further down into Iruppu Falls over time. This association with religious worship made it a sacred site to the Hindus. Here, scores of devotees come for their pilgrimage and bathe in this waterfall as a part of the soul-purifying ceremonies. Being one of the most important centres of pilgrim tourism circuits connecting pilgrims bound to Talakaveri, the birthplace of the Kaveri river, about 48 kilometres from here, waterfalls are very important. One of the important places that emerges from the bottom of the falls is the Rameshwara Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the pilgrimages that the devotees have to visit when Maha Shivaratri is approaching. It is said to have been built by Rama himself. He had placed a Shiva Lingam at this spot during his exile. 

The trek to Iruppu Falls is one of the adventures of visiting this place, which offers adventure for the trekkers and nature lovers. Visitors through the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary find their way through dense forests, streams, and scenic valleys. The trail is somewhat moderate and can be accomplished in 1-2 hours, depending on one's pace. The trek provides an experience of the pristine beauty of the Western Ghats with varied flora and fauna, hence being a favourite route for trekking enthusiasts. The surrounding areas of the falls are also a good place for birdwatching as they hold all kinds of birds such as hornbills, drongos, sunbirds and many species of water birds. A few animals like tigers, leopards, elephants, and sambar deer have always resided here, thus becoming the dream destination for any wildlife enthusiast. 

PLACES AROUND THIS PLACE TO VISIT:

1. Talakaveri (48 km from Iruppu Falls): This is one of the most sacred rivers in South India, and it is the origin of the Kaveri River. It lies at the top of the Brahmagiri Hills and is considered a holy place by the Hindus. It offers a wide view of the hills and valleys surrounding it. Major attractions here are Talakaveri Temple and the sacred tank. 

2. Nisargadhama (22 km from Iruppu Falls): Nisargadhama is a Kaveri River island  with dense bamboo grooves. It has a deer park, a hanging bridge, and scintillating options for picnics and nature walks. 

3. Abbey Falls (8 km from Madikeri): Abbey Falls is one of the loveliest waterfalls in Coorg. Surrounded by coffee plantations, falls are  spectacular during the monsoon season, and the full force of gushing water can be seen. 

4. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary (Closest to Iruppu Falls): The sanctuary is highly diversified with flora and fauna , including elephants, tigers and several species of birds. It's also a prime trekking spot for nature lovers. 

5. Madikeri Fort (45 km from Iruppu Falls): Built by the Kodava kings in the 17th century, Madikeri Fort is a peep into Coorg's past. The fort has a museum; tourists can visit its architecture and view the town from panoramic heights. 

6. Omkareshwara Temple (45 km from Iruppu Falls): This  19th-century temple is located at Madikeri in the name of Lord Shiva. This religious and cultural monument's style carries gothic and Islamic styles, making it an out-of-the-way landmark. 

7. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary (40 km from Iruppu Falls): The Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is considered one of the richest biodiversity places in the Western Ghats. Bird watching, trekking, and exploring the Coorg's nature are magnificent activities. 

8. Raja's Seat (45 km from Iruppu Falls): Raja's Seat is a picturesque scenic viewpoint from which one can view spectacular hills and valleys from Madikeri. It was the earlier place where the Kodava kings used to sit to watch sunsets. 

9. Igguthappa Temple (60 km from Iruppu Falls): Dedicated to Lord Igguthappa, Igguthappa Temple falls in the list of Kodavas deities their community pays homage to; it is one of the largest places of pilgrimage 10. Tadiandamol Peak -40 Km from Iruppu Falls 

10. Tadiandamol Peak: Tadiandamol is the tallest peak of Coorg and the most favourite trekking destination, giving it panoramic views. It follows an area with dense forestation, providing great views of the Western Ghats. 

HOW TO REACH: 

• By Road: Take a ride from Madikeri toward Virajpet and proceed towards the falls. The road is a treat of the Western Ghats, coffee plantations, and valleys, making the drive a lovely experience. 

• By Bus: Buses from the towns of Madikeri and Virajpet offer regular public transport services to the falls, though more frequently and as directly as a private vehicle. 

• By Trek: This fall is also possible for trekkers across the forest. Trekkers may trek across the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary to reach these falls.