Monsoon drive in western ghats region of Karnataka is a soothing experience. We did it this impromptu trip in the rains five years ago.
This time, there was only one agenda. Just to drive in the rain in Malnad over the weekend.
To enjoy the mist.
To breathe the fresh air.
To count countless water falls!
As we drove along, we were spellbound by vast vistas of greenery. We could listen to lyrics written by nature. Words fail to describe the Magnificence of Malnad. We hope these pictures do some justice.
We started on a Saturday and returned on Sunday afternoon (23 and 24 July in 2011). The route was (click on the link for Google map)
The route
The Plan
We left home at 5 AM. Breakfast was at Hassan and Lunch in Sringeri. We reached Bananki Home stay in Tirthahalli by 6.30 PM
(We had planned to go Kudremukh but had to cut it out as we were getting delayed)
What are you waiting for? Hop on with us and enjoy the ride!!
Please click on the pictures to see them in enlarged size.
As we drove to Charmadi, it started raining heavily and the whole place was enveloped in mist. The first sight of a stream when the mist cleared for seconds!
The valley full of mist!
Local bikers enjoying the rain!!
Rain drenched Charmadi in full glory. The Scorpio seems to like the surroundings!!
We now sight the first water falls – a small jumping stream – countless to come!!
Waterfalls, Water falls every where!! You will encounter one every 300 Meters!!
Mist clad Ghat road – Nature at its best
Some more!! Some were hidden in the mist.
Picture 2
Rain drenched Wild flowers
We did not do complete Charmadi and did only half of it – highest point of Charmadi ghat. Reluctantly, we took a U turn to go towards Kalasa
We notice this lovely falls near Balur on the highway!
The Road to Kalasa has some great valley views, here is one!!
The scenery after crossing the bridge on Bhadra river, Awesome!!
Bhadra in full flow!
Valley views on the way to Sringeri -I
Valley views on the way to Sringeri -II
Bhadra is full roar forms a beautiful waterfalls
Some more water falls on the way. These were some of the beautiful falls we had seen, falling in layers.
Valley views on the way to Sringeri -III
This was the best of the lot!! It had height and volume!
As we drove to Agumbe from Sringeri, we spotted this lovely pond
A hamlet – Typical of Malnad, amidst greenery
Picture taken on Agumbe – Tirthahalli road. The thick black clouds in the horizon and the greenery makes it a fantastic setting!!
The paddy field near Agumbe was like a picture post card
Kundadri was a revelation. Every time we go this place, we come back awestruck. The wind, the mist and the feeling of floating in the clouds!! Take a look at these pics from the sky – virtually!! – Check the following pictures
These wild flowers were eye candy!
As we left Tirthahalli, we bid good bye to Tunga which was roaring to glory!
It was a lovely monsoon drive in western ghats.
In the rain, soaking ourselves in nature at its best.
We came back refreshed and rejuvenated!! In every true sense.
Now it is your turn! Go for a monsoon drive in western ghats. Count countless waterfalls!
Travel tips
a) We stayed at Tirthahalli for the night. Make Tirthahalli as base to explore Malnad. Bananki Homestay is like our second home! Good homestay options are available as below
b) Road conditions in Malnad have improved and there are excellent roads.
c) Carry raincapes/ponchos and umbrellas.
d) Do not venture into any waterfalls or fast flowing rivers. It may prove fatal.
e) Please drive safe. The roads may get foggy in the hills with visibility being very low. Make sure your tyres are in good condition.
Looking for other monsoon drive experiences? Check out these links on this blog
12 Monsoon road trips in western ghats to get mesmerised!
Do you want to experience Monsoon in India? Here is a complete list for you to look at. Click on the link below.
Celebrating Indian Monsoon – A List!
For a detailed itinerary for exploring Malnad in Monsoons, please click this link
Monsoon in Western Ghats – An Itinerary to experience it!
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