Day trip

Honavar to Jog Falls

Jog Falls is 68 km from Honavar, about 1.5 hours each way. The road follows the Sharavathi River upstream, so the drive is half the fun.

The route

Leave Honavar on the highway east towards Gerusoppa and Sagara. The road runs beside the Sharavathi River for most of the way, then climbs through forest into the Ghats. Hire a cab for the day or drive yourself. Buses also run, but stops on the way are easier by car.

Stops worth making

Gerusoppa: the old capital of the Pepper Queen, with the four-faced Chaturmukha Basadi in the forest.

Gerusoppa Dam: still water and forested hills.

Bangara Kusuma Falls: a roadside waterfall, best in and after the monsoon.

Sharavathi River valley viewpoint: look down into the gorge the river has cut below Jog.

At Jog Falls

The Sharavathi River drops 253 metres in four streams known as Raja, Rani, Roarer and Rocket. Viewpoints at the top give the classic view. Steps lead down towards the base for those with strong knees.

Restaurants and stalls at the falls serve snacks and meals.

When to go

The falls are fullest from July to October, after the monsoon fills the reservoir upstream. August to October is the best balance of water and visibility. In the dry months the flow can be thin. Leave early in the morning to beat the mist and the crowds.