Shiva Samudram Falls, Karnataka

The Shivanasamudra Waterfalls, literally meaning Shiva's Sea are situated at a distance of 85 kms from Mysore and 139 kms from Bangalore. The route to this segmented falls from bangalore is fantastic and well maintained. The island town of Shivanasamudra divides the river Cauvery into two different falls which display a captivating sight. On the one side, it forms the Gaganachukki falls shaped like a large horsetail and on the other side are the Bharachukki Falls. The sight of these two falls is enchanting.

The Gaganachukki waterfalls are best viewed from the Shivanasamudra watch tower. There is another approach to the Gaganachukki falls from the Darga Hazrath Mardane Gaib. Bharachukki falls are situated at distance of approximately one km from the Dargah. These falls are best during the monsoons, nevertheless their beauty mesmerizes tourists throughout the year.

Shivanasamudra is home to the first Hydro-electric Power station in Asia, which was set up in the year 1902. This station was commissioned by the Diwan of Mysore, Sir K. Seshadri Iyer. This is one of the oldest generating station in India The electricity produced here was initially used in the Kolar Gold Fields. Thus, Kolar Gold Fields became the first town in Asia to get hydro electricity.

Some Guidelines for the visitors:

The best time to visit the Shivasamudram is during the monsoons from June to October. This is the time when the waterfalls are scenically beautiful with the water gushing down in full flow into the deep gorge below.Don't forget to take your bath suits and slippers to have a shower in the base of the falls - Be careful though, it can be dangerous and slippery.You don't get good restaurants and dining facilities near the falls or within 10 km range of it. So make sure You carry our meals boxes with You when You travel.The footsteps to the basin of the fall are steep and its tiresome to climb down the stairs and come back again. Be prepared for a little bit of physical stamina test.