Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
A pristine evergreen forest in the Western Ghats, known for its biodiversity, waterfalls, and the scenic Agumbe Ghats drive.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery and full waterfalls
Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time
Lush greenery and full waterfalls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine evergreen forest in the Western Ghats, known for its biodiversity, waterfalls, and the scenic Agumbe Ghats drive.
"It's a beautiful place to visit; once you go there, your mind will say to stay here."
Carry Salt for Leeches
Leeches are common; salt is your best friend! Carry it to deter them. :salt:
Pack Your Own Snacks & Water
Limited facilities inside; bring essentials and carry out all trash. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seethanadi Nature Camp
Within the sanctuary
A birdwatcher's paradise in the Western Ghats, offering chances to spot rare avian species.
Kudlu Teertha Falls
Near Hebri
A dreamy 300ft freefall surrounded by rocks, deep within the Sahyadri forests.
Agumbe Ghats Drive
Connecting route
A thrilling and refreshing drive with twists and turns, testing driving skills amidst lush greenery.
Onake Abbi Falls
Near Hebri
A beautiful waterfall offering a serene experience amidst the dense forest.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Leeches!
Pack Smart for Pristine Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Salt for Leeches
Leeches are common; salt is your best friend! Carry it to deter them. :salt:
Pack Your Own Snacks & Water
Limited facilities inside; bring essentials and carry out all trash. :water_wave:
Download Offline Maps
Network can be unreliable. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation. :iphone:
Trekking Shoes Recommended
Slippery paths and uneven terrain call for sturdy, comfortable trekking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Salt for Leeches
Leeches are common; salt is your best friend! Carry it to deter them. :salt:
Pack Your Own Snacks & Water
Limited facilities inside; bring essentials and carry out all trash. :water_wave:
Download Offline Maps
Network can be unreliable. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation. :iphone:
Trekking Shoes Recommended
Slippery paths and uneven terrain call for sturdy, comfortable trekking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Pristine Nature
Help keep the forest clean by not littering. Leave no trace behind. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the sanctuary's pristine, untouched beauty and unique forest landscapes, calling it a 'god's gift' and a 'heavenly' experience. The lush greenery and the refreshing drive through the Agumbe Ghats are frequently praised. However, the abundance of leeches and the lack of amenities like hotels and network coverage are common points of caution.
"Absolutely beautiful place and unique forest.
Bring your drinking water and snacks, and carry back your waste.
Local authorities have made significant efforts that has kept forests free from plastic.
Carry salt, and keep moving lots of leeches."
Rahul Gahlot
"Its a dense forest. you have to visit this place once in life.
we are going to Jogg Falls from Sri Kshethra Dharmasthala Sri Manjunatha Swamy Temple, Dharmasthala Via Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary.
The Place is Dam good.
once you go there in the sanctuary your mind will say to stay here. its a beautiful Place to visit.
Its Gods Gift that wondering of earth, here Sunlight will feel shy to enter.
Such lovely place."
B.S.srithar
"It was mesmerizing and totally prestine and untouched hope it is maintained the same way"
Pavan Kulkarni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is accessible via the Udupi to Agumbe road. It's about 45km from Udupi and 25km from Agumbe. The drive through the Agumbe Ghats is a significant part of the experience. +1
For reaching waterfalls like Kudlu Teertha, a 4-wheeler can go up to a certain point, followed by a 4-5 km trek. For reaching higher points like Tingalamakki hill, a geared two-wheeler is recommended, but it can be risky.
While buses ply on the main routes like Someshwara to Agumbe, reaching specific points within the sanctuary might require local taxis or private vehicles.
The Agumbe Ghats are known for their twists and turns, and can be challenging, especially during monsoon. Drive cautiously and be aware of sudden halts.
The sanctuary is located between Udupi and Shimogga districts, with Agumbe being a prominent nearby town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information on specific entry fees is not widely available, but it's advisable to check with local forest authorities upon arrival.
The sanctuary is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific timings for nature camps or attractions like waterfalls might vary.
Yes, the monsoon season (June-September) offers lush greenery and full waterfalls, making it a beautiful time to visit, though leeches are abundant.
Some areas might be restricted or require special permissions, especially for deep forest treks. It's best to inquire locally.
While specific fees for the falls are not always detailed, it's a popular spot within the sanctuary, and minor charges might apply.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The sanctuary is known for its evergreen forests and diverse native wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot many rare species at Seethanadi Nature Camp.
Absolutely! The sanctuary offers numerous forest treks, some known only to locals, providing a heavenly journey within the dense woods.
Leeches are prevalent, especially after rain. Carry salt or use leech socks and check your legs frequently.
Mobile network coverage is generally poor or non-existent within the dense forest areas. It's advisable to download offline maps.
The lush greenery, waterfalls like Kudlu Teertha and Onake Abbi, and the scenic Agumbe Ghats offer stunning photographic opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no hotels or restaurants directly within the sanctuary. It's recommended to carry your own food and snacks.
You'll find food options in nearby towns like Agumbe or Hebri. Plan your meals accordingly before entering the sanctuary.
Picnicking is possible, but remember to carry all your waste back with you to maintain the pristine environment.
While not within the sanctuary itself, exploring the local cuisine in nearby towns like Udupi or Mangalore will offer delicious South Indian flavors.
Yes, carrying packed lunches and plenty of drinking water is highly recommended for a comfortable day trip.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer soft light, ideal for capturing the lush landscapes and wildlife. Monsoon brings dramatic, misty scenes.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for capturing wildlife from a distance. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
The viewpoints along the Agumbe Ghats, the base of Kudlu Teertha Falls, and the trails around Seethanadi Nature Camp are excellent for photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in wildlife sanctuaries to avoid disturbing the animals. It's best to check with forest authorities beforehand.
The dense canopy can lead to low light conditions, and the presence of leeches requires careful handling of equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Seethanadi Nature Camp for a more structured experience, potentially with guided nature walks that can engage younger minds. The drive through the Agumbe Ghats can also be an adventure in itself, offering scenic views. Ensure you have offline maps as network coverage is unreliable.
🚶♀️ Trekkers and Nature Enthusiasts
Be prepared for challenging terrain and the ubiquitous leeches; carrying salt and wearing sturdy trekking shoes are non-negotiable. The Agumbe Ghats also offer challenging drives and scenic viewpoints that appeal to adventure seekers. Remember to pack light but carry essentials like water, first-aid, and insect repellent.
📸 Photographers
+2The Seethanadi Nature Camp is particularly rewarding for bird photography, with chances to capture rare species. Be mindful of the dense canopy, which can reduce light, and consider bringing a tripod. The raw, untouched beauty of the sanctuary ensures that every click captures a piece of pristine nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Western Ghats
+1The landscape is dramatic, with steep valleys, flowing rivers, and cascading waterfalls that come alive during the monsoon. The drive through the Agumbe Ghats, which borders the sanctuary, is an experience in itself, offering breathtaking views and challenging roads. This area is also known for its high rainfall, contributing to the vibrant green cover that blankets the region for most of the year.
Wildlife and Birding Hotspots
Beyond birds, the sanctuary is home to various mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The moist, evergreen environment supports a rich insect life, which in turn sustains the larger fauna. Visitors are encouraged to be observant and patient, as wildlife encounters are often serendipitous. The sheer abundance of life, even if not always visible, contributes to the sanctuary's magical and untouched feel.
Navigating the Trails and Waterfalls
Another notable spot is Onake Abbi Falls, offering a serene experience amidst the verdant surroundings. For trekkers, the sanctuary presents numerous opportunities, with some paths known only to locals, promising an authentic forest immersion. Remember that the terrain can be slippery, especially during and after the monsoon, making sturdy footwear essential.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit