Agumbe - A beautiful jewel in the rainforest of the Western Ghats

Agumbe lies on a mountain pass connecting the plains of Karnataka with the coastal region. It lies in the Western Ghats, often dubbed the "Cherrapunji of South India" due to its average annual rainfall of about 8000 mm. The region is covered with rich forests, fast-flowing streams, and cascading waterfalls. One of Agumbe's most breathtaking sights is the sunset over the Arabian Sea, offering a clear view stretching about 40 km. The Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS) was established here by the world-famous herpetologist Romulus Whitaker to study the endangered King Cobra. The famous TV serial ‘Malgudi Days’ was filmed here.

Adventurous souls can participate in curated treks organised by expert groups, especially during and after the monsoons, to sight rare species of snakes, frogs, insects, and other wildlife. Within a 5 km radius of Agumbe, there are several waterfalls like Barkana Falls, Jogi Gundi Waterfalls, and Onake Abbi Falls. The journey up and down the hill involves navigating 14 sharp hairpin bends, an exhilarating experience whether driving yourself or observing skilled local drivers. For fans of ‘Malgudi Days,’ visiting the filming locations offers a nostalgic journey. Agumbe is an ideal weekend getaway for adventure, trekking, and fun-filled activities with friends and family.

Things to do:

Hiking:
a. Witness the breathtaking sunset from the dedicated viewing deck, offering a clear line of sight of about 40 km over the Arabian Sea.
b. Explore several waterfalls within a 5 km radius of Agumbe, such as Barkana Falls, Jogi Gundi Waterfalls, and Onake Abbi Falls. These sites are partly accessible by road and require a short hike.

Trekking:
Join curated treks organised by expert groups during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons to explore the wildlife for rare species of snakes, frogs, insects, and other flora and fauna.

Driving:
Experience the thrill of negotiating 14 sharp hairpin bends while ascending or descending the hill. Full-size buses and trucks are not allowed, so either drive yourself or enjoy the ride with local drivers.

Nostalgia:
Visit the filming locations of the popular TV serial ‘Malgudi Days’ based on RK Narayan’s novel. Enjoy the greenery and fresh air while reminiscing about the memorable days of storytelling.

Boating:
Enjoy a peaceful boating experience at the small lake near the forest check post.

Local Cuisine:
Agumbe offers a delightful taste of traditional Malnad cuisine, featuring dishes like Akki Roti (rice roti), Kesari Bath (sweet semolina), and various delicacies made from fresh and local ingredients.

Places nearby:

1. Kundadri Hills:
Located 16 km from Agumbe, Kundadri Hills is an ideal spot for trekking and enjoying panoramic views.

2. Sringeri:
Approximately 30 km away, Sringeri is a nice place to visit for its historic temples.

3. Kuppalli:
Situated 45 km from Agumbe, Kuppalli is the birthplace of the famous Kannada poet Kuvempu and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes