Kalhatti falls or also referred as Kalahasti falls is situated in the district of Chikmagalur in the state of Karnataka. The waterfalls are very close to the hill station, Kemmanagundi at a distance of 10 Km. The falls gives an enchanting cascade view from Chandra Drona hills that is 122 meters high. A temple devoted to Lord Shiva, named as Veerabhadreshwara temple is also located near this place.

The story associated with the falls is that the saint Agastya stayed at this place for very long time and prayed. The temple of Lord Shiva was built during the times of Vijayanagar. The temple comprises of three elephants that have been carved out of stone and are placed at the temples entrance. The waterfall falls directly on these elephants and the water ofthis waterfall is believed to cure all the diseases.

A three day fest is held each year in name of Lord Veerabhadra during the month of March or April. Large number of tourist visitsthis fest from the nearby places.

There is a spot that is favorable among the trekkers who enjoy their trekking in the nearby hills. Trekkers are expected to carry their own trekking equipment’s. The view of the trekking route is very mesmerizing. The base of the trek route is at Tarikere that is situated at a distance of 35 km from Kemmanagundi and the trekking path has a rich panoramic view that is visible from green and lush valley.

One can stay at the Horticulture Guest House located in the Kalhatti falls.

The drive from Bangalore to the waterfall is an eight hour drive that goes through muddy and hilly terrain along with the sharp hairpin curves.

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport to reach the waterfalls is the Mangalore airport.

By Rail

The closest rail line to visit the Kalhatti waterfall is from Birur railway station.

By Bus

Regular buses ply frequently from Birur and it takes around 30 min to cover the distance from Birur to the waterfalls. One can also take their vehicle to reach the Kalhattigiri and later trek to the falls.

Nearest Places to Visit

Madumalai and Bandipur Forest

The areas around the Kalhatti falls are adorned with large number of cardamom trees ad these areas are referred as Madumalai and Bandipur forests. The area also has some exotic wildlife and comprises of bear, elephants, tigers and monkeys.

Muthodi

This area is known for the wildlife sanctuary and has a Bhadra backwater reservoir. The wildlife of this are includes Bisons, Wild Boars, Panthers, Sambars etc.