About Unchalli Falls
Unchalli Falls, also known as Lushington Falls, is a 116-metre (381 ft) waterfall on the Aghanashini River in Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, about 30 km from Sirsi near Siddapur. Formed where the river drops steeply into a forested gorge in the Western Ghats, it is noted for its single vertical cascade, dense evergreen surroundings, and viewpoint accessed by stone steps.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a forested Western Ghats setting with a maintained viewpoint overlooking the Aghanashini River plunging into a deep gorge. Access involves descending approximately 380 concrete steps with railings through dense forest to the main viewing platform. The area offers open views of the cascade, surrounding valley and evergreen forest, with opportunities for photography and nature observation. Facilities are basic and the site is primarily for sightseeing from designated viewpoints.
Key highlights
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116-metre single-drop waterfall on the Aghanashini River
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Viewpoint overlooking forested gorge in the Western Ghats
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Discovered in 1845 and named Lushington Falls after J.D. Lushington
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Dense evergreen forest surroundings with rich birdlife
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Stone-step trail with railing leading to viewing platform
History of Unchalli Falls
The falls were documented in 1845 by J.D. Lushington, a British District Collector of North Canara, after whom it was named Lushington Falls. It has since been known locally as Unchalli Falls after the nearby Unchalli village.
Route
| By air | Nearest airports are Hubballi Airport (HBX) about 120 km away and Mangaluru International Airport about 180 km away; onward journey by road via Sirsi |
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| By train |