Abbey Falls Coorg: Timings, Entry Fee, Things To Do

Cover Photo by Chaitanya Rayampally

Famous as the Scotland of India, Coorg is a small yet most striking place in the state of Karnataka. Lush green valleys, misty hills, majestic mountains, sprawling coffee plantations and serene environment aptly delineate this enthrallingly beautiful hill station in South India. The tranquility and old-world charm of this quaint district, along with its adventurous terrain and picturesque attractions, make Coorg or Kodagu an ideal place to enjoy a relaxed and fun-filled vacation.

There are several Coorg sightseeing places, ranging from Madikeri Fort to Wildlife Sanctuary and the famous Omkareswara Temple, each spot has a distinctive appeal for tourists. Also, Coorg is home to several gorgeous waterfalls in the state that leave tourists mesmerized with extravagant scenery. Abbey Falls is one such scenic attraction in Coorg, drawing tourists’ attention with picturesque charm and peaceful surroundings. Situated amid the green and serene surroundings of Western Ghats, Abbey waterfalls is one of the most delightful places to visit in Coorg. Here’s everything you need to know about Abbey Falls.

About Abbey Falls

One of the most gorgeous waterfalls in South India, Abbey falls is surrounded by rich flora and sprawling coffee and spice plantations. The water falling down from a cliff with a height of 70 feet creates a spectacular scene for travellers to cherish for a lifetime. Amidst the lush green backdrop of Western Ghats, the Abbey Waterfalls in Coorg attracts nature lovers, photographers, and adventure lovers from all over the world.  There is also an over-bridge hanging on the reverse side of the falls, allowing tourists to see and click pictures of the striking sight of water streams and white foams gushing down the ridge.

This beautiful waterfall is created by the amalgamation of numerous small mountain streams, giving it a more striking look. After flowing down the cliff, Abbey Falls joins river Kaveri or Cauvery as one of its tributaries. The way to the waterfall from the entry point has about 200 steps, taking you to a green world of plantations of coffee and spices. The panoramic landscape allows photographers to click pictures of the elegance of the natural world. For adventure lovers, Abbey Falls is a heaven for trekking, and for nature and peace lovers, it is a great spot to soak in tranquility amid nature.

History of Abbey Falls

Initially known as Jessy Falls, Abbey Falls has an interesting history. The first British chaplain of Coorg was fascinated by the green surroundings and rich flora and fauna of Abbey Falls. So, he named this place Jessy Falls after the name of his daughter. After the end of the British Empire, the territory came under the Indian Government. However, the scenic views and green surrounding of the fall were lost in the wilderness. Later, Neravanda B. Nanaiah bought this property from the Government and established several plantations of spices and coffee around the place. It is a private property that boasts of mesmerizing sights. As the wilderness and forests started getting cleared up, the striking natural magnificence of the place came into view, revealing the eye-catching waterfalls and streams to the people. Today, Abbey Falls has emerged as the major tourist spot in Madikeri, Coorg.

Abbey waterfalls –Things To Do

Most people visit this tourist spot to see its amazing natural exquisiteness and behold the memorable sight of the waterfalls. However, there are many other activities you can enjoy when visiting Abbey Waterfalls.

Enjoy a picnic with friends and family

Abbey Falls is one of the most popular picnic spots in Coorg, owing to its natural beauty and serene atmosphere. So, you can enjoy a fun picnic with your family and friends near the waterfall.

Click some memorable pictures

If you are passionate about capturing pictures of landscapes and natural beauty, Abbey Falls will give you a great opportunity to click on some spectacular images. Abbey Falls has thick vegetation and greenery all around. Make sure you cross the hanging bridge to get more tantalizing sights of waterfalls and the surroundings.

Seek blessings of Goddess Kali

The other side of the famous hanging bridge has one of the most visited temples in the region – the temple of Goddess Kali. You can visit the temple to seek the blessings of Kali Maa and have a divine experience.

Hiking and Trekking

The 20 to 25 minutes trek to Abbey Waterfalls in Madikeri needs people to cross dense forests and coffee and spice plantations – a great opportunity for adventure seekers to enjoy a memorable trekking and hiking experience. The cool breeze and calmness of the place, along with tempting fragrances of coffee and spices, relaxes and reenergizes the body and mind, making the trek a wonderful experience.

Apart from that, there are many food stalls where you can taste some authentic local food and buy souvenirs from the local markets.

Abbey Falls- Entry Fee

Entry Fee: INR 15

Parking Fee: INR 10-15

Abbey Falls – Timings

Abbey Falls in Coorg is open for travellers on all days of the week. However, the timing of Abbey Falls is 9 AM to 5 PM.

Best Time to Visit Abbey Falls

In summer, the waterfall dries up a little bit, however, travellers are allowed to visit the place. If you wish to visit Abbey Falls in Madikeri at its best, plan to visit it during the monsoon. So, the best time to visit Abbey Falls is between July and October.

Places to Visit near Abbey Falls

During a trip to Abbey Falls, you can plan to explore many other tourist spots situated nearby Madikeri. Here are a few best places that are worth a visit:

Raja’s Seat

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Madikeri, Raja’s Seat is a garden having a beautiful fountain and seasonal flowers. Surrounded by towering hills, green valleys, and paddy fields, Raja’s Seat is a perfect place to enjoy the serenity and scenic splendour. Raja’s Seat literally means the seat of the kings, and this spot should not be missed during your trip to Madikeri.

Omkareshwara Temple

An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Omkareshwara Temple is one of the top places to visit near Abbey Falls. Built-in 1820 by King Lingarajendra, the temple reflects both Gothic and Islamic style structure. A symbol of faith and devotion, the temple draws thousands of devotees and tourists regularly.

Madikeri Fort

Located in the mid of the town, Madikeri Fort is a historical place, offering tourists a glance at the history of Coorg and showcasing the brilliance of the bygone era. At present, the fort has the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Madikeri and some other attractions for tourists that include artefacts and portraits, a museum, and elephants at the entrance. One of the most loved tourist attractions near Abbey Falls, Madikeri Fort offers panoramic views of the town – sure to leave you mesmerized.

Nagarhole National Park

Also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, this prominent national park is a must-visit place for adventure and wildlife lovers. Established in 1988, Nagarhole National Park is one of the most famous tiger reserves in India, having a wide expanse of lush forests and surrounded by waterfalls, valleys, and mountains. The park is home to a large number of animals and exotic wildlife such as Indian leopards, elephants, tigers, deer, and gaur to name a few.

Namdroling Monastery

Namdroling Monastery is the biggest teaching centre of Tibetan Buddhism school, called Nyingmapa. Spread over an area of 80 square feet, the Monastery displays a great example of Tibetan artwork and architecture. Surrounded by beautiful paintings and artwork of Tibetan Buddhist mythology, Namdroling Monastery is one of the best places to visit near Abbey Falls to find serenity away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The beautiful murals, ornate design, and the calm and spiritual ambience of this monastery attract people from all over the world.

Chingara Falls                          

Nestled magnificently between lush greenery and natural landscape, Chingara Falls makes for an ideal place for tourists to enjoy a tropical trek, especially in the monsoons. This majestic waterfall is surrounded by lush forests, hills, and coffee estates, offering an enthralling sight to behold. If you are planning a long trip to Abbey Waterfalls in Coorg, Chingara Falls should be on your list to relax and unwind in a perfect environment of a remote location.

The pristine location and the serenity around Abbey Falls make it a perfect vacation spot for tourists. So, next time when you check out the best Coorg hill station packages, make sure Abbey Falls is a part of the itinerary.