There are destinations that you visit, and then there are destinations that entice you. Sakleshpur, located in the Western Ghats, is not just a destination; it’s an adventure waiting for you. Raving waterfalls, time-frozen railway bridges, mist-covered peaks, and steep trails make Sakleshpur a paradise for explorers. Our recent trip was nothing less than an adrenaline rush.
What Does This True Offbeat Adventure Hide?
Our adventure began with a backpack, a full tank of fuel, and the monsoon fog covering the roads. Once we were ready to veer off the map, here’s what we pursued.
Kumaradhara Waterfalls Stream and The 4x4 Jeep Experience
One of the greatest thrills of the journey was the drive to the secluded Kumaradhara Waterfalls stream, which involves a 4×4 jeep track. The journey was a bit bumpy, untamed, and desolate. While we rattled along forest tracks, traversed muddy roads, and gripped tight on hairpin turns, the payoff came in the form of a secluded cascade deep within the jungle.
The Forgotten Track of Yedakumari Railway Bridge
Our love for abandoned places and history covered in nature took us to the Yedakumari Railway Bridge. We took a stroll along this mythical Green Route and felt transported back in time. Towering trees, the occasional creak of distant trains, and moss-grown tracks created an otherworldly experience.
Karigundi Water Stream and the Kaginahare Hills
We hiked to the Karigundi stream at Kaginahare. Its trail twisted through dense coffee plantations and unexpectedly opened up to a glistening water stream running through black rocks and dense foliage. The adjacent hills provided an expansive view of the rolling green forest waves, untouched and untamed.
Quick Traveller Tips
Sakleshpur is no ordinary hill station—it’s untamed, raw, and intensely rewarding. Each trail is like a discovery here, each stream like it’s running just for you. My visit to Sakleshpur was punctuated with moments of silence, hard hikes, unforgettable vistas, and the profound peace that only nature can provide.
Best Time to Visit:
June to November
Travel Tips:
Hire local guides or rent jeep tours because most offbeat places are not on the map.
Plantation Homestays:
Good food, great comfort, and a warm welcoming atmosphere come with pre-booked homestays.
Pack Appropriately:
Waterproof gear, anti-mosquito sprays, dry bags for electronics, and trekking shoes are must-haves.
4x4 or Two-Wheeler Recommended
As most beautiful spots are off-roads, you should rent local jeeps and two wheelers for the best experience.
Ferry Timings:
Ferry services to St. Mary's Island generally operate from 9 AM to 5 PM, based on sea conditions.
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