Located in the Balehalli forest areas at a distance of about 7 km from the village of Agumbe in the Shimoga district in the Indian state of Karnataka, the Barkana Falls originates from the Seetha River. The Barkana Falls is a tiered waterfall that stands at an elevation of about 850 ft and has been ranked to be 353 in the world height ranking. This waterfall is one of the prime sources of hydroelectricity in Karnataka as the water is used to power a hydroelectric system.
Etymology of Barkana Falls
The name Barkana is derived from the word "barka", which is a reference to the mouse deer that is found in this region.
Tourist Attractions near Barkana Falls
Other than being an ideal destination for trekking and also its proximity to the village of Agumbe, the Barkana Falls has several nearby places of tourist attractions. Few of them are discussed below:
Gopal Krishna Temple
A fine example of Hoysala art, sculpture and architecture, the Gopal Krishna Temple is an ancient temple that was constructed in the 14th century and is a major tourist attraction of the region.
Sunset View Point
Located on the highest peaks of the Western Ghats, the Sunset View Point is situated at a height of 825 m and provides an amazing view of the surrounding area.
Agumbe Rainforest Research Station
The Agumbe Rainforest Research Station is an ecological research station and is located in the inside of the Agumbe Reserved Forest in the central Western Ghats. The research station stands at a height of 640 m above sea level and provides a great opportunity to appreciate the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats and know about the conservation of rain forests.
Nishani Gudda
Also known as Mission Gudda, the Nishani Gudda is a bare mountain that offers the perfect terrain for trekking. The trail passes through a dense forest area and offers a pleasant view of the surroundings. The trek is located at a distance of about 3.5 km from Agumbe.
Visiting Information on Barkana Falls
Agumbe does not have its own rail or air networks. The nearest airport to the waterfalls is the Mangaluru International Airport that is located about 135 km from Agumbe and the Udupi railway station is the closest at a distance of 60 km. And via roadways the best way to access the Barkana Falls is by trekking from the village.