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Unchalli Falls, Gokarna

Overview

•Unchalli Falls, also known as Lushington Falls, is a spectacular 116-metre waterfall on the River Aghanashini in Karnataka, India.
•Located about 48.7 km from Gokarna, it offers a refreshing escape into nature.
•The falls are renowned for the rare phenomenon of moonbows, making them a unique destination for travellers.

Highlights

116-metre high waterfall
Rare moonbow phenomenon
Scenic trek through forest
River Aghanashini

Religious Significance

Unchalli Falls is a natural wonder, celebrated for its impressive height and the rare occurrence of moonbows. It is historically significant as it was discovered by J. D. Lushington in 1845, after whom it is also named. The falls are a key attraction in the Uttara Kannada district, drawing nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Facilities

Basic facilities like parking and a few local stalls are available near the entrance. There are no extensive amenities, so carry essentials like water and snacks.

History

•The falls were discovered in 1845 by J.
•D.
•Lushington, a District Collector for the British Government.
•They were subsequently named Lushington Falls in his honour.
•The site has since been a popular tourist destination in the region.

Travel Tips

Carry water and snacks as there are limited facilities.
Wear sturdy footwear for the trek.
Avoid visiting during heavy rains for safety.

Location

•Unchalli Falls is situated in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, approximately 35 km from Sirsi and 48.7 km from Gokarna.
•It is created by the Aghanashini River plunging from a height of 116 metres.

How to Reach

•From Gokarna, the falls are about 48.7 km away and can be reached by road via Sirsi.
•The journey typically involves a drive of around 1.5 to 2 hours, followed by a short trek from the parking area to the falls.

Things to Do

Trek to the Falls

1-2 hours

Enjoy a short trek through lush greenery to reach the viewpoint of Unchalli Falls.

NatureEasy to Moderate

Photography

1 hour

Capture the stunning waterfall and the surrounding landscape, especially during sunrise or sunset.

PhotographyEasy

Do's and Don'ts

•Do wear comfortable shoes as the path to the falls can be slippery and uneven.
•Don't litter; help keep the area clean.
•Do exercise caution near the cliff edges and don't venture too close to the water, especially during the monsoon when the flow is strong.

Photography Rules

•Photography is generally allowed, but avoid using drones without permission and be respectful of the natural environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Unchalli Falls is one of the few places in the world where you can witness moonbows, a rare natural phenomenon. It is also known for its impressive height of 116 metres.

Yes, a short trek of about 10-15 minutes is required from the parking area to reach the viewpoint. The path can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.

Visiting during the monsoon is possible but risky due to slippery paths and strong water flow. It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season for safety reasons.