Apsarakonda Waterfalls: The Cascading Hidden Gem Of Karnataka That You Must Visit

Located on the outskirts of a peaceful village in Karnataka, Apsarakonda Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful places in India. The place is an extremely underrated tourism spot that gets overshadowed by other famous tourism spots. The waterfall is a perfect place to escape the stressful daily city life. The waterfall offers a beautiful scenic view of the jungle along with luscious green forest. The beautiful blend of tranquillity and nature makes the waterfall a perfect destination for both nature lovers and adventurers.

Apsarakonda Waterfalls Location

Located on the outskirts of a Karnataka’s village, Apsarakonda Waterfalls is a must-visit.

Photo: Akasmita / Wikimedia Commons

Snuggled in the Honnavar Taluk in Karnataka, the Apsarakonda Waterfalls location is right behind the beautiful ancient Ugra Narasimha Temple, Hampi. The temple, along with the ruins of Hampi, is one of the most popular tourist spots in Karnataka. The waterfall is behind the ruins of Hampi, in the heart of the jungle.

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How To Reach Apsarakonda Waterfalls

You can hop on a bus from Honnavar in order to reach this cascading attraction.

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Situated in a forest-like area, the attraction is easily accessible by road. Being located in Honnavar Taluk, the waterfall is attached to many major cities in Karnataka. So, if you are wondering how to reach Apsarakonda Waterfalls, you can reach here from Honnavar by bus or taxi, depending on your preference. You can either hire a private bus or use state-operated bus services that drive to Apsarakonda Village every hour from Honnavar town. You can also pre-book buses from Honnavar to Apsarakonda waterfalls online. Besides that, you can also hire a taxi to reach the attraction from the central location, and get here in no time.

Places To Visit Around Apsara Waterfalls

There are many places to visit near the waterfalls that can make your journey a remarkable one.

1. Apsarakonda Beach

Nestled in Honnavar, this is one of the cleanest beaches near Apsarakonda Waterfalls.

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Apsarakonda Beach is a remote beach in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district that is known as one of Honnavar’s cleanest beaches. The beach is relaxed, yet the water has a major grade that makes swimming challenging. Some say it’s an excellent spot for taking photos and enjoying the sights. The coastline is also close to historical sites such as Maha Ganapati and Ugra Narasimha.

Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Distance From The Falls: 2 km
Best Time To Visit: September to February

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2. Basavaraj Durga Island

Basavaraj Durga Island is located just a few kilometres away from the attraction.

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Basavaraj Durga Island Fort is an ancient temple from the 16th century. It is an island temple that is not to be missed. The temple is on an island about 7 kilometres from the main town and is accessible by boat. According to legend, the temple was constructed by rulers from the 16th and 17th centuries in the middle of the Arabian Sea, across the River Sharavathi.

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Distance From The Falls: 19 km
Best Time To Visit: March to May

3. Mirjan Fort

 Mirjan Fort is one of the best places to visit near Apsarakonda Waterfalls in the region.

Photo: Gandharva S / Wikimedia Commons

Mirjan Fort is one of the top places to visit in Karnataka. This 16th-century fort, located around 22 kilometres from Gokarna, is full of culture and history. However, the fort’s origins are complemented with multiple variations. The most famous tale holds that the fort had been constructed by Chennai Bhairavi Devi, the Queen of Geroppa, popularly known as the ‘Queen of Pepper.’

Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Distance From The Falls: 38 km
Best Time To Visit: September to February

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4. Kasarkod Beach

Kasarkod Beach is a tidy and well-maintained beach that you must visit in the region.

Photo: Vijayanrajapuram / Wikimedia Commons

Kasarkod Beach is an eco-friendly beach built in collaboration with the Tourism and Forest Department of Karnataka and Kasarkod Village in order to encourage ecotourism in Karnataka and attract visitors from all around. Situated off the main road, it is a somewhat secluded place away from the city bustle. Kasarkod Beach runs for 5 kilometres and is a tidy and well-maintained beach with white sand.

Timings: 24*7
Distance From The Falls: 4.4 km
Best Time To Visit: September to February

5. Shri Murudeshwara Temple

A picture of a tall Shiva statue in Murudeshwar, sitting beside a golden temple

Photo: Vivek Urs / Wikimedia Commons

Shri Murudeshwara Temple, located in Murudeshwar, Karnataka, is a magnificent coastal shrine near Apsarakonda Waterfalls. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is renowned for its towering 123-foot statue of Shiva, which is the second-largest in the world. Perched on Kanduka Hill and surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides, the temple offers breathtaking views and a serene ambiance. Visitors can explore the intricately carved gopuram, enjoy the spiritual atmosphere, and take in the beauty of the sea. For those exploring places near Apsarakonda Waterfalls, Shri Murudeshwara Temple is a must-visit destination that combines spirituality, architectural brilliance, and natural charm.

Timings: 6:30 AM – 12 PM and 3:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Distance From The Falls: 28 km
Best Time To Visit: October to February

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6. Netrani Island

A picture of a lush green island as seen from tourist boats in the Arabian Sea

Photo: Subhas Nayak / Wikimedia Commons

Netrani Island, also known as Pigeon Island, is a stunning destination located off the coast of Murudeshwar in Karnataka, near Apsarakonda Waterfalls. Famous for its heart-shaped appearance when viewed from above, this uninhabited island is a paradise for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are home to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including butterflyfish, parrotfish, and even whale sharks. Visitors can enjoy thrilling underwater adventures or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. For those exploring places near Apsarakonda Waterfalls, Netrani Island is a must-visit destination that combines adventure, natural beauty, and tranquility.

Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Distance From The Falls: 28 km
Best Time To Visit: January to March

7. Murudeshwara Beach

An aerial view of a scenic beach near Apsarakonda Waterfalls with golden sand and turquoise waters

Photo: Thejas Panarkandy / Wikimedia Commons

Murudeshwar Beach, located in the coastal town of Murudeshwar, Karnataka, is a stunning destination near Apsarakonda Waterfalls. This picturesque beach is known for its golden sands, tranquil waters, and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Adjacent to the iconic Shri Murudeshwara Temple, the beach offers a unique blend of spirituality and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, or simply unwind while taking in the serene ambiance. For those exploring places near Apsarakonda Waterfalls, Murudeshwar Beach is a must-visit destination that combines natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness.

Timings: 24*7
Distance From The Falls: 28 km
Best Time To Visit: October to February

Suggested Read: Top Scenic Beaches In Murudeshwar You Need To Visit In Your Lifetime

8. Yana Caves

A frontal view of a majestic cave system near Apsarakonda Waterfalls, surrounded by green hills

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Yana Caves, located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, is a mesmerising natural wonder near Apsarakonda Waterfalls. Famous for its two massive rock formations, Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara, these monoliths are composed of black karst limestone and rise dramatically amidst the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. The caves are steeped in mythology, with legends of Lord Shiva and Vishnu’s Mohini avatar adding to their spiritual significance. Visitors can explore the Bhairaveshwara Temple at the base of the larger rock formation and enjoy trekking through the surrounding forests. For those exploring places near Apsarakonda Waterfalls, Yana Caves is a must-visit destination that combines adventure, spirituality, and geological marvels.

Timings: Best visited during daylight hours
Distance From The Falls: 57 km
Best Time To Visit: October to February

Where To Stay

After exploring Apsarakonda Waterfalls, you can head to Honnavar for a night stay.

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After exploring the waterfalls, you can head to Honnavar, which is around 8 km from the attraction. You can find a number of budget-friendly hotels in Honnavar. Some of the best stays include: Mavalli Beach Heritage Home, Trinity Villa, Bidaara HomeStay, and Hotel Lavender.

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Where To Eat

There are a plethora of restaurants where you can cherish local flavours with delight.

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There are a number of food joints to choose from near the falls. From delicious South Indian food such as dosas, idlis, pongal, and chicken chettinad to North Indian dishes such as butter chicken, momos, and chole bhature, you can find all types of cuisines to satisfy your taste buds here. You can even enjoy your favourite food at international fast food chains such as McDonald’s, Domino’s, and KFC near the falls. Besides that, you can also head to places like: Greenpark River View Restaurant, BaBa’s Cafe, Hotel Navaratna, and Vaibhavi Restaurant for a hearty meal.

Best Time To Visit Apsarakonda Waterfalls

Choose to visit Apsarakonda Waterfalls during monsoon season for an amazing experience.

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Apsarakonda is a beautiful place during the monsoon season. Hence, the best time to visit Apsarakonda Waterfalls is from June to September, when the waterfall is flowing in full force. The surroundings turn into beautiful green pastures, and the atmosphere becomes cold and chilly. Most people visit the waterfall during rainy days to enjoy the rain in the embrace of nature. It is one of the most surreal experiences of a lifetime.

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Other Factors To Consider

It is always recommended to wear trekking shoes to visit near the cascading attractions.

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There are a few tips to consider before you embark on a journey to this stunning attraction.

Tips For Travellers

  • For a visit to Apsarakonda, visitors are advised to wear comfortable footwear. So, do not wear slippers or crocs. It is preferred to wear sport shoes and trekking shoes when visiting the waterfall.
  • Being a water body surrounded by trees and grass, the waterfall is home to various insects, especially mosquitoes. So, do carry an insect repellant spray or cream for protection.
  • Make sure you don’t litter around the waterfall or in the waterfall. It is important to keep the integrity of the place and not ruin such a beautiful place with trash.
  • It is advised to check the weather conditions in advance before visiting the place.

Apsarakonda Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. The place is a perfect spot to take your family and friends for a weekend or a picnic. With beautiful green forest decked with multi-coloured flowers and fruit, it is a must-visit place for all nature lovers and adventurers. So, if you want to explore this beautiful attraction, book your trip with TripXL now.

Cover Photo: Christian Joudrey / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The River Varahi flows near the falls in the district of Shimoga, which in turn creates the Apsarakonda Falls.
Apsarakonda means the pond of angels or fairies. It got its name because of the folklore about fairies coming to take baths in the pond at the bottom of the waterfall.
While visitors are allowed to swim in the waterfall’s pond, it is important to take all necessary precautions, especially during monsoon season.
No, you do not need to pay any entry fee in order to explore the waterfall.
The waterfall is around 60 km from Gokarna, and it can be reached by bus or taxi from the city.
Murudeshwar Temple is about 20 km from Apsarakonda Waterfalls and is famous for its towering Shiva statue, breathtaking sea views, and spiritual significance.
Yes, Honnavar Beach is around 8 km away and is a serene coastal destination perfect for relaxing, taking a stroll, or enjoying mesmerizing sunsets.
The Sharavathi Kandla Mangrove Boardwalk, about 10 km away, offers a rare opportunity to walk through dense mangrove forests and observe unique marine biodiversity.

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