How To Reach Dabdabe Falls

Chikmagalur, Karnataka, India:

The Unspoiled Wilderness Cascade: Dabdabe Falls, sometimes confused with or simply known locally as a major stream in the Ballalarayana Durga region, represents the raw, untamed beauty of the Western Ghats. Unlike easily accessible waterfalls, reaching Dabdabe Falls involves a moderate-to-challengin

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest major airport is Mangaluru International Airport (IXE), approximately 150 KMS from the general Dabdabe Falls area (Kottigehara). From the airport, one would need to hire a private taxi to the town of Kottigehara or the falls' base village, which takes about 3. 5 hours.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Mangaluru Central (MAQ) or Kadur (KDU), but the most practical railhead is Mangaluru due to its better road connectivity to the Kottigehara region. From the station, a private cab is necessary to reach the base of the falls.

By Road - From Chikmagalur: Dabdabe Falls is located approximately 65 KMS from Chikmagalur City Center, towards the Kottigehara and Ballalarayana Durga area, primarily via NH 173. The drive is scenic but requires a total of 2 to 2. 5 hours to reach the village near the trek start point. The road is good initially but turns rugged and unpaved near the base of the falls.

By Local Transport: There are infrequent local buses from Chikmagalur to towns like Kottigehara, but from there, one must hire a local jeep or taxi to get to the base village. The final leg of the journey, the trek through the dense forest, must be done on foot and requires a local guide due to the absence of a marked trail. This location is poorly serviced by standard public transport and is best reached by private hired vehicle followed by a strenuous trek with a guide: