Mallalli Falls: One of India’s Most Scenic Waterfalls

Tucked away in the northern reaches of Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka, where the Western Ghats sweep into mist-capped peaks and shadow-dappled valleys, lies Mallalli Falls (also spelled Malalli). Formed by the pristine waters of the Kumaradhara River, this multi-tiered cascade descends over 200 feet down massive granite cliffs, creating one of South India's most dramatic natural spectacles.

While popular destinations like Abbey Falls attract steady tourist traffic, Mallalli remains relatively raw and unspoiled. Situated at the base of the Pushpagiri mountain range, it offers an immersive escape into pristine ecosystems, ancient trails, and rich biodiversity.

The Geography & Geomorphology of the Cascade



The story of Mallalli Falls begins high in the Western Ghats—a UNESCO World Heritage site and global biodiversity hotspot. The Kumaradhara River, originating in the Pushpagiri wilderness, carves its way through dense evergreen forest before arriving at a sheer structural drop in the terrain.

The waterfall falls in two distinct, powerful tiers:

The Upper Drop: The river funnels through a narrow rocky gorge before taking its first dramatic plunge over black granite rock faces.



The Lower Tier & Basin: The torrential waters crash into a intermediate ledge, breaking into massive spray plumes before cascading into a deep pool below.

During the peak monsoon, the river expands exponentially. The roar of the water carries for over a kilometre through the forest canopy, creating a persistent micro-climate of mist that nourishes lush mosses, ferns, and orchids along the canyon walls.

Ecological Significance & Rich Biodiversity



The ecosystem surrounding Mallalli Falls is part of the broader Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary landscape. This tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forest habitat shelters remarkable floral and faunal diversity.

1) Flora: The surrounding hills feature wet evergreen rainforests mixed with high-altitude shola-grassland ecosystems. Giant trees such as Dipterocarpus, ironwood, and wild nutmeg form a canopy overhead, while the canyon walls around the waterfall host endemic mosses, insectivorous plants, and rare epiphytic orchids that thrive in the continuous mist spray.

2) Fauna & Avifauna: The dense forest corridor is a critical habitat for several endangered and endemic species:



a) Mammals: Asian elephants, Malabar giant squirrels, lion-tailed macaques, and sambar deer frequent the forested slopes.

b) Birdlife: A haven for birdwatchers, the region is home to the Malabar grey hornbill, Malabar whistling thrush, Sri Lanka frogmouth, and scarlet minivet.

c) Amphibians & Reptiles: The damp micro-climate supports rare amphibians, including the Malabar gliding frog and the purple frog (Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis), alongside endemic pit vipers and caecilians.

The Trekking Experience: Descending into the Gorge



Reaching the base of Mallalli Falls requires descending a purpose-built staircase cut directly into the hillside.

a) The Trail: The route comprises roughly 600 to 700 steps winding through lush hillside vegetation, wild shrubbery, and rocky outcrops.

b) Difficulty: Moderate. The descent is easy, but the climb back up offers a solid cardio workout. During the wet season, the steps can become slick with moss, requiring sturdy hiking shoes.

c) The Atmosphere: As you descend, the ambient temperature drops significantly, replaced by a cool mist and the increasing surge of roaring water.

Along the trail, clearings offer panoramic viewpoints looking out across the deep valley, showing the full scale of the Pushpagiri mountain range framing the waterfall.

Essential Visitor Information



Location: Somwarpet Taluk, Kodagu (Coorg) District, Karnataka

Nearest Towns: Somwarpet (25 km), Madikeri (55 km), Kushalnagar (42 km)

Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (IXE) – approx. 150 km

Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (130 km) or Subrahmanya Road (55 km)

Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily

Entry Fee: Free (Parking charges may apply locally)

Seasonal Guide: When to Visit



Monsoon (July to September): Peak water volume. The Mallalli waterfall is at its most powerful and dramatic, surrounded by deep green foliage. Mist clouds fill the valley. Note: Trail steps become slippery, and leeches are common along the forest floor.

Post-Monsoon / Autumn (October to December): The ideal window for most travellers. The water flow remains strong and impressive, but skies clear up, trails dry out, and trekking conditions are optimal for photography.

Winter & Spring (January to March): Clear, cool weather with moderate water flow. Excellent for serene landscape views and birdwatching.

Summer (April to June): Water levels drop significantly, reducing the waterfall to small streams. Not recommended for those seeking a dramatic visual experience.

Responsible Travel & Safety Tips



Exercise Water Caution: The pool at the base of Mallalli Falls has strong undercurrents, submerged rocks, and sudden depth changes. Swimming directly beneath the main fall drop is dangerous and strictly discouraged during high flow.

Pack Rainwear & Protection: During post-monsoon and monsoon visits, carry a light waterproof jacket or poncho, along with salt or anti-leech socks.

Leave No Trace: Mallalli remains pristine because of its relative isolation. Visitors are encouraged to pack out all plastic bottles, wrappers, and trash to preserve the fragile Western Ghats ecosystem.

Other Nearby Tourist Attractions



1) Kaginahare View Point: A green paradise especially during the monsoons

2) Mookanamane Waterfalls: Hidden amidst pristine forests of Malnad, Karnataka

3) Bisle Ghat: The butterfly forest of India

4) Malalli Falls: Coorg’s prettiest waterfall

5) Trek to Yedakumeri Railway Bridge: Lost in a green world



6) Bisle Beauty Spot: A monsoon paradise and a top motorcycling route

7) Kumaraparvatha Trek: One of the most gorgeous monsoon treks in this region

8) Kukke Subramanya Temple: A popular pilgrimage site on the banks of the Kumaradhara river

9) Manjarabad Fort: A star shaped massive fort built by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century

10) Attihally to Bisle Ghat: A gorgeous offbeat motorcycling route in Malenadu, Karnataka



11) Pushpagiri Peak Trek: The second-highest peak in Coorg lies adjacent to the falls, offering advanced trekkers a multi-hour trail through pristine forest reserves

12) Honnamana Kere Lake: The largest lake in Kodagu, located near Somwarpet, surrounded by coffee estates and cliffs

13) Shantalli Estate Drives: The roads connecting Somwarpet to Malalli wind through historic cardamom and coffee plantations, offering scenic driving routes

14) Chingara Falls: Private waterfall that is surrounded by forests, coffee, spices and hills

15) Abbey Falls: One of Coorg’s iconic waterfalls



16) Thadiyendamol Peak: Coorg’s highest peak and a top monsoon trekking destination

17) Nalknad Palace: A Kodava palace in the lap of lush nature

18) Nilakandi Falls: A waterfall surrounded by pristine nature and a beautiful monsoon trekking destination

19) Dubare: A top camping destination by the river Cauvery

20) Monsoons in Bhagamandala and Talacauvery: Paradise of greens and floating clouds

21) Bylaguppe: India’s largest Tibetan settlement in interior Karnataka

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Muzhappilangad Beach: Asia’s Longest Drive-in Beach

Nestled along the Malabar Coast in North Kerala’s Kannur district, Muzhappilangad Beach holds a double claim to fame: it is Asia’s longest drive-in beach and India’s only official motorable shoreline. Stretching roughly 4 kilometres parallel to National Highway 66, this coastal sanctuary effortlessly pairs high-octane automotive novelty with a surprisingly rich, delicate ecosystem.

The Natural Phenomenon: Why the Sands Hold Weight



The key magic of Muzhappilangad lies under your tires. Unlike typical soft-sand beaches where vehicles instantly sink, this 3.8-kilometre crescent features an exceptionally dense layer of hard-packed sand, compressed over centuries by unique tidal dynamics and coastal geography. Framed by coconut palm groves on one side and the warm waves of the Arabian Sea on the other, you can safely cruise over 3 kilometres right along the water's edge.

Natural black rock formations fringe the beach, acting as offshore breakwaters. These formations absorb the violent impact of ocean swells, creating remarkably calm, shallow waters ideal for safe wading and swimming.

Coastal Biodiversity & Avian Sanctuary

Beyond the drive, Muzhappilangad is a thriving biodiversity hotspot. The combination of protective rock clusters and sprawling intertidal mudflats makes it a vital avian refuelling stop along the Central Asian Flyway.

Migratory Bird Haven: Winter brings over 30 species of migratory birds to these shores, including Whimbrels, Ruddy Turnstones, Lesser Crested Terns, and Eurasian Oystercatchers. Rare vagrants like the Pectoral Sandpiper and Caspian Plover have also been documented here.

Marine Intertidal Ecology: The tide-exposed black rocks house dense beds of blue mussels (Kallummakkai). These bivalves filter the coastal currents and serve as the backbone of local culinary traditions.

Top Highlights & Essential Experiences



1) The Shoreline Drive

Key Experience: Driving 4 km alongside gentle crashing waves.  

Travel Tip: Time your drive for low tide when the sand is firmest and broadest.

2) Dharmadam Island

Key Experience: A secluded 5-acre green islet located 100–200m offshore.   

Travel Tip: During low tide, you can walk through knee-deep water right to the island.

3) Malabar Culinary Shacks

Key Experience: Sampling fresh local Kallummakkai Nirachathu (stuffed mussels).   

Travel Tip: Stop by the beach shacks around golden hour for hot seafood and fresh coconut water.

4) Water & Aerial Sports

Key Experience: Parasailing, power boating, and microlight flights.   

Travel Tip: Available primarily during peak winter months (October through March).

Essential Travel Logistics

Best Time to Visit: October to March offers cool sea breezes, migratory bird activity, and dry sands.

Getting There: Located 15 km from Kannur and 7 km from Thalassery. The nearest airport is Kannur International Airport (CNN), roughly 27 km away.

Vehicle Care: Always rinse your vehicle's undercarriage with fresh water immediately after driving on saline beach sand to prevent rust.

Other Tourist Attractions in Kerala



1) Pullode: Rural paradise in god’s own country

2) Bekal Fort: Iconic coastal fort of Kerala

3) Thrippalur Hanging Bridge: Scenic sunset location near Palakkad, Kerala

4) Vagamon: That offbeat hill station of Kerala where rolling hills and tea estates meet

5) Punalur Suspension Bridge: Historical gem of Kerala

6) Palaruvi Falls: Kerala’s herbal waterfall that  drops like milk from the sky

7) Kambhavurutty Falls: Scenic waterfall holiday destination of Kerala

8) Inchathotty Bridge: Kerala’s longest suspension bridge

9) Ponmudi: That offbeat hill station of Kerala with a 360 degree mountain panorama

10) Eravikulam National Park: The jewel of Munnar

11) Vattavada: The vegetable and fruit basket of Munnar

12) Udumalpet to Munnar Forest Highway: Perfect route for your Neelakurinji holiday

13) Nilgiri Trek from Kodaikanal to Munnar: Iconic monsoon trek

14) Pampadum Shola National Park: Mind blowing rainforests in Kerala

15) Veetikunnu Island Nest: Living on an island inside a tiger reserve

16) Manalar Falls: The herbal jungle waterfall of Kerala

17) Rosemala View Point: Gorgeous motorcycling route inside Shendurney wildlife sanctuary

18) Kappil Beach: Sandy beauty hemmed in between the sea and the backwaters

19) Padmanabha Swamy Temple: World’s richest Hindu temple

20) Vintage Pathimoonu Kannara Bridge: Colonial charm of the Indian Railways

21) Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: Magical nature on its birding trails

22) Silent Valley National Park: One of India’s smallest yet richest national parks

23) Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: On the jumbo trail

24) Periyar Tiger Reserve: Stunning location for a wildlife cruise

25) Thenmala Dam: A monsoon pit stop view

26) Cherai Beach: Golden sands near Cochin

27) Pristine Vazhachal Rainforest Highway: A special road trip hot spot

28) Yellapatty: On top of the Neelakurinji mountain

29) Varkala Beach: That stunning cliff beach of Kerala where you can wash away all your sins

30) Athirapally Falls: The Niagara of Kerala

31) Lesser Known Kerala Mountain Railways: Treat for nature lovers

32) Monsoon Trek to Chembra Peak: The highest peak in the district of Wayanad in Kerala

33) Vazhachal Forests: A fresh lease of oxygen in Kerala

34) Alappuzha: Of ayurveda, backwaters, houseboats, coconut trees and paddy fields

35) Aryankavu Saastha Temple: Ancient temple located in the sacred forests of the Western Ghats

36) Achankovil Saastha Temple: Ancient healing temple located in the pristine forests of the Western Ghats

37) Meenmutty Falls inside Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary: A beautiful tropical jungle trail

38) Trekking inside Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: A thrilling adventure

39) Shangumugham Beach: The tranquil and divine beach of Thiruvananthapuram

40) Ottakkal Weir View Point: Lovely pit stop on the Thenmala – Kollam highway

41) Mekkarai to Achankovil to Konni: Heavenly motorcycling route through pristine forest

42) Soochipara Falls: Thundering monsoon wonder in Wayanad

43) Banasura Sagar Dam: A Green zone

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Mechuka to Lamang: Journey to the Edge of Tibet

Tucked away in the extreme north-western corner of Arunachal Pradesh’s Shi-Yomi district lies one of the Indian subcontinent's most breath taking, untouched, and geopolitically captivating mountain corridors: the high-altitude highway connecting the magical valley of Mechuka to the border outpost of Lamang.

Winding alongside the roaring, glacier-fed Yargyap Chhu river (a primary tributary of the Siyom River) toward the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with Tibet (China), this newly developed highway is a masterpiece of landscape engineering, ecological diversity, and cultural sanctity.



For those seeking the pinnacle of off-grid travel, the road from Mechuka to Lamang represents a rare intersection of raw, untamed nature, military vigilance, indigenous Buddhist folklore, and wild Himalayan biodiversity.

1. Key Overview & Travel Essentials



Route: Mechuka Town –> Yarlung Checkpoint –> Hanuman Point –> Taposthali –> Lamang Outpost

Total Distance: Approx. 30 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 1,830 m (6,000 ft) at Mechuka to over 3,300 m (10,800 ft) at Lamang

Primary River: Yargyap Chhu (Siyom River system)

Permits Needed: Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian Nationals; Protected Area Permit (PAP) for Foreigners + Special Army/BRO Border Clearance in Mechuka

Best Travel Window: October to April (Crystal-clear post-monsoon autumn skies, snow-covered winters, and spring rhododendron blooms)

2. Topography & Geographical Transition: From Green Valley to Alpine Scree



The expedition begins in the wide, bowl-shaped Mechuka Basin—often affectionately termed the "Shangri-La of Arunachal Pradesh". At 6,000 feet above sea level, Mechuka feels like a fairy tale landscape of emerald-green pastures, pine-dotted hills, and timber houses with smoke wafting from traditional wood-burning hearths.

As your vehicle moves northwest out of Mechuka along the strategic road constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), the terrain undergoes a dramatic, thrilling evolution:

a) The Lower Canyon (Mechuka to Yarlung): The broad riverbed contracts rapidly into steep, V-shaped granite gorges. The road clings precariously to vertical cliffs, with the turquoise Yargyap Chhu crashing through boulder-choked rapids hundreds of feet below.



b) The Sub-Alpine Ascent (Yarlung to Taposthali): Gaining height past 2,500 meters, dense broadleaf evergreen forests transition into thick stands of Himalayan conifers, hemlocks, and wild bamboo thickets shrouded in heavy mountain mists.

c) The High-Altitude Frontier (Taposthali to Lamang): Approaching 3,300 meters (10,800 ft), the trees recede, giving way to open alpine meadows (bugyals), glacial moraines, jagged granite amphitheatres, and snow-capped peaks forming the physical barrier between India and Tibet.

3. Flora & Biodiversity: A Living Botanical Sanctuary



The Mechuka–Lamang corridor forms an integral, highly sensitive part of the Eastern Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot. Because human access has historically been restricted due to border security, the region remains an undisturbed refuge for flora and fauna.

Botanical Richness

a) Wild Rhododendrons: Between March and May, the mountainsides along the road explode in brilliant shades of crimson, rose-pink, cream, and deep purple from over 15 distinct species of Rhododendron.



b) Conifer & Bamboo Canopy: Lower stretches feature towering Blue Pines (Pinus wallichiana), Himalayan Fir, Alder, and dense thickets of high-altitude mountain bamboo—the essential food source for endemic wildlife.

c) Medicinal Flora & Mosses: Ancient trees are draped in lichens (Usnea or "Old Man's Beard"), signalling pristine, unpolluted air. The forest floor harbours delicate alpine orchids and rare traditional medicinal herbs used in Tibetan medicine (Sowa Rigpa).

Rare Frontier Wildlife



a) The Elusive Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens): The dense bamboo understory surrounding the Yargyap river valley provides ideal habitat for the endangered Red Panda.

b) Ungulates & Apex Predators: The high cliffs host herds of Takin (Arunachal's state animal), Musk Deer, Blue Sheep (Bharal), and the semi-domesticated Mithun (Bos frontalis). In the higher snowy reaches beyond Lamang, apex predators like the Snow Leopard and Himalayan Black Bear roam undisturbed.



c) Avian Highlights: A paradise for ornithologists, travellers frequently spot the Sclater’s Monal, Blyth’s Tragopan, Himalayan Griffon Vultures soaring over the gorges, Rufous-necked Hornbills, and vibrant Sunbirds.

4. Waterfalls & Hydrological Marvels

Fed by vast glacial ice fields near the Tibetan border, dozens of spectacular cascades spill directly alongside and occasionally across the highway.



a) Twin Frontier Waterfalls (Near Hanuman Point): Dropping hundreds of feet down near-vertical granite cliffs, these twin waterfalls generate a continuous cloud of refreshing mountain mist that fills the gorge. In post-monsoon months, their roar reverberates across the canyon wall.

b) Yargyap River Gorge Drops: The Yargyap Chhu river itself creates a series of thunderous cascades and natural churning plunge-pools along the road, framed by pristine pine forests and mossy boulders.

c) Seasonal Glacial Melts: During spring, meltwater streams trickle down rock faces right onto the road, providing natural, crystalline drinking water straight from the Himalayan glaciers.

5. Key Highlights & Frontier Attractions



Mechuka Town (1,830m / 6,000ft) -> Yarlung Checkpoint (Army Verification Gate) -> Hanuman Face Rock (Natural Rock Formation & Army Shrine) -> Taposthali Sacred Cave (8th-Century Guru Rinpoche Site) -> Lamang Outpost (3,300m / 10,800ft - Border Viewpoint)

A. Hanuman Face Rock (Hanuman Point)

Roughly midway along the journey, the road passes beneath a towering granite cliff face where natural weathering and erosion have carved out a startlingly accurate profile of Lord Hanuman. Rebuilt and maintained by the Indian Armed Forces stationed in the valley, a charming roadside temple sits at the base of this rock face, where soldiers and travellers pause to pray for safe passage through the treacherous terrain.

B. Taposthali & Guru Rinpoche’s Meditation Cave



Steeped in Tibetan Buddhist mysticism, Taposthali is an ancient pilgrimage site situated in a quiet, moss-covered pine forest near the road. According to local Memba tradition, Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche)—the legendary sage who introduced Buddhism to Tibet in the 8th century—spent time meditating in a natural rock cave here. Visitors can walk up a stone path adorned with fluttering prayer flags to see the sacred footprint embedded in the rock inside the cave.

C. Yarlung Army Garrison

Yarlung acts as the administrative and security checkpoint before entering the strict border zone. Beyond Yarlung, civilian infrastructure disappears entirely. The army personnel stationed here are renowned for their warm hospitality, often welcoming weary travellers with hot tea amidst harsh high-altitude climate conditions.

D. Lamang Border Settlement & Frontier Viewpoint



At over 10,800 feet, Lamang represents the final point accessible to civilians. Standing at Lamang offers an awe-inspiring, humbled feeling: snow-clad peaks surround you on all sides, bright prayer flags flap furiously in the freezing winds, and the realization dawns that China/Tibet lies just across the high ridges directly ahead.

6. Trekking Trails & Outdoor Adventures



For trekking enthusiasts, the Mechuka-Lamang corridor offers world-class, uncrowded wilderness trails:

a) Guru Taposthali Sacred Circuit (3–4 Hours): A moderately easy high-altitude forest trek starting from the highway near Taposthali, taking hikers through ancient hemlock and pine groves, mossy bridges, and pristine holy springs.

b) Lamang Ridge & Alpine Tarn Trek (Full Day): A demanding high-altitude trek originating near Lamang outpost. The path climbs steep, grassy ridges into alpine meadows, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of untouched glacial tarns and jagged border peaks.

c) Yargyap Riverside Trail: A lower-altitude nature walk following the riverbank nearer to Mechuka, perfect for birdwatching, photography, and angling (catch-and-release fishing for mountain trout).

7. Cultural Heritage: The Memba & Ramo Guardians



The human landscape along this corridor belongs to the indigenous Memba, Ramo, and Tagin tribes.

a) The Memba Tribe: Tibetan Buddhist highlanders who have cultivated the Mechuka valley for centuries. Their distinct architectural style—hand-hewn wooden houses built on stilts without metal nails—complements their deep spiritual connection to the environment.

b) Sacred Groves & Eco-Philosophy: Under Buddhist traditions, mountain peaks, forests (Seng-ge), and water bodies along the road to Lamang are revered as abodes of guardian deities. This indigenous conservation ethic has kept the landscape pristine for generations.

8. Practical Travel Guide & Logistics

How to Reach Mechuka



By Air: The nearest commercial airport is Donyi Polo Airport in Itanagar (Hollongi) or Dibrugarh Airport (Assam). From Dibrugarh or Pasighat, heli-taxi services to Mechuka Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) operate on select days (subject to weather).

By Road: The overland route goes from Dibrugarh –> Pasighat –> Along (Aalo) –> Tato –> Mechuka via the Trans-Arunachal Highway. High-ground-clearance 4x4 vehicles (e.g., Mahindra Thar, Toyota Fortuner, Force Gurkha) are essential.

Permits & Border Regulations



Inner Line Permit (ILP): Required for all domestic Indian tourists (can be obtained online via the official Arunachal Pradesh ILP portal).

Protected Area Permit (PAP): Required for foreign passport holders traveling in groups of two or more.

Special Army / BRO Clearance: Obtaining clearance to go beyond Yarlung to Lamang requires presenting your credentials and ILP to local authorities/army officers in Mechuka.

Accommodation Note

Where to Stay: Excellent local homestays are available in Mechuka town, offering traditional wooden rooms, hot local meals, butter tea (Suja), and fire-pit evenings. During my visit, I stayed at Dhondup homestay, a traditional Memba tribal home located in the heart of Mechuka.

No Civilian Stay in Lamang: Lamang has no civilian hotels or homestays. The trip to Lamang is completed as a day excursion from Mechuka, returning to town before nightfall.

9. Conclusion



The highway from Mechuka to Lamang is far more than a road; it is an unforgettable Himalayan odyssey. Moving from lush green valley bottoms through sacred meditation caves, roaring waterfalls, and dense rhododendron forests, to the wind-swept, snow-capped border outpost of Lamang, this destination stands as one of India's final, untamed wildernesses—a true bucket-list expedition for conscious travellers, cultural enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.

10. Other Tourist Attractions in Arunachal Pradesh



1) Lamang: Unknown snow covered paradise of India

2) India’s Last Cafe: Gorgeous pit stop enroute Lamang, Arunachal Pradesh

3) The Picturesque Mechuka valley with its wooden bridges, monasteries, Buddhist culture and surreal views

4) Gurudwara Shri Tapo Ashtan Sahib: Lovely gurudwara run by the Indian army at the confluence of two mountain rivers

5) Dorjeeling village: A gorgeous valley settlement located a few kilometres from Mechuka

6) 400 Year Old Samten Yangchak Gompa: The guardians of Menchuka

7) Siko Dido Waterfall: A tall waterfall located on the way to Mechuka from Aalo

8) Arunachal Pradesh’s Kaho: The first village of India

9) Emuli Grasslands: Gateway to the hidden seven lakes trek of Arunachal Pradesh

10) Mayodia Pass: Arunachal Pradesh’s high altitude gem



11) Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary: A Himalayan wilderness of waterfalls, wild rivers and untamed biodiversity

12) Traditional wooden hanging bridges of Arunachal Pradesh

13) Journeying through the wild biodiversity and raw beauty between Tezu and Kaho

14) Golden Pagoda, Namsai: A radiant beacon of Buddhist heritage in India’s Northeast

15) Ranaghat Bridge near Pasighat: Mesmerizing view of the Brahmaputra river

16) The world of rhododendrons between Mechuka and Lamang: A photo story of exotic blooms

17) The Iconic Sign Boards and Slogans of BRO in Arunachal Pradesh: A Photo Series

18) Dirang: Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden magical world

19) Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary: Birdwatcher’s paradise in the Himalayas

20) 14 Top Things to Experience in and around Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh



21) Sela Pass: A high altitude Himalayan wonderland

22) Thukje Chueling Ani Gompa, Tawang: A beautiful nunnery surrounded by the mountains

23) Jaswantgarh War Memorial, Nuranang: A temple like Indian army memorial

24) Tawang: India’s true Shangri-la

25) The serene and majestic Tawang Gompa

26) Tawang War Memorial: Honoring the unsung heroes of the 1962 India – China war

27) Tak Tsang Gompa or T Gompa: As serene as it gets

28) Penga Teng Tso: A high altitude Himalayan lake

29) Sangetsar Lake: Abundance of Himalayan vistas

30) Tongpen La View Point: A Himalayan vista

31) Ugyenling Monastery: Birth place of the 6th Dalai Lama

32) Jung Falls: A sensational setting

33) Tenga Valley: Tucked amidst the Eastern Himalayas

34) Sangti Valley: A valley in heaven

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Bekal Village Homestay: Luxurious Villas by the Bekal River

North Kerala is beautiful during the monsoons and the months right after. And what better place to start your holiday than Bekal, home to the largest and one of the best preserved forts in Kerala – the Bekal fort. And if you are planning to explore Bekal fort, the beaches, backwaters and mountains nearby, you will need a good place to stay. One such place where I stayed recently during my monsoon motorcycle ride through Malenadu in Karnataka and North Kerala is the Bekal village homestay, a stunning group of luxurious yet reasonably affordable villas by the Bekal river and just a 5 minute drive from Bekal fort.

This property review is based on my recent experience of staying with them. I found them online when I had already reached Bekal on a week day and needed a place to stay.



1) Scenic Location: Bekal village homestay is located away from the hustle and bustle of the coastal highway and closer to nature. It is located in a residential area with coconut groves and areca nut plantations. And it shares a border with the Bekal river giving it a fantastic and scenic location. This gorgeous location ensures that you do only hear the sounds of birds and the soft laps of the river while staying here.



2) Fantastic Rooms: Bekal village homestay is designed more than luxury villas than a homestay. They have villas that come in two sizes. One that can house a couple and the other that can house a family. Each villa comes with a bedroom with attached bathroom, a small dining area, a fully working kitchen with gas stove, induction cook top, water filter, kettle and more, a balcony that overlooks into the garden area and a private parking area for your car/motorcycle. The villas come with satellite television, free wi-fi, air conditioning and running hot water. In simple words, it offers all of the modern amenities in a reasonably large space.



3) Seriously Affordable: I stayed at the small sized villa that comes with a bedroom, dining area, kitchen, balcony and private parking area. Apart from its amenities, I also got treated to free breakfast (that included idlis, sambar, chutney and coffee) in the morning. And all I paid was INR 2000 per night. I think the larger villa costs a bit more, but given the amenities and the free breakfast, the price is seriously affordable.



4) Proximity to Popular Tourist Attractions: Bekal fort is just a 5 minute drive from Bekal village homestay and so is the gorgeous Kappil beach. Other beaches that are located between Bekal and Kasargod on the coastal highway are also not too far away.



5) No In-House Restaurant: This is the only drawback when staying at this property. Apart from the free breakfast, you don’t get lunch, dinner or any snacks at this property. You will have to walk or drive to the nearby shops for a cup of coffee or hot snacks. And drive to the main road for proper vegetarian and non vegetarian meals. The in-house kitchen in the villas allow you to cook your own food using the provisions that you might have bought or carried with you. This might be preferred by people who like to cook their own meals, especially those with food allergies or young children.

In sum, Bekal village homestay is a fabulous place to stay when you plan to visit Bekal fort and the surroundings. It’s luxurious villas, affordable cost and beautiful nature make it a top choice for me.

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Attihally to Bisle Ghat: A Gorgeous Offbeat Motorcycling Route in Malenadu, Karnataka

Cometh the monsoons and there is no better place to visit than Malenadu (the land of rain) in Karnataka. Every monsoon, I try looking for newer routes to see the land of Malenadu from a different perspective. This time, I came across one such hidden route in the Sakleshpur taluk of Karnataka’s Hassan district. It is tucked somewhere between the Kaginahare reserve forest, Shirdi ghat forest and Bisle forest. It is a single lane newly laid concrete village road that is surrounded by coffee and spice plantations, rolling green hills, mist covered mountains, quaint little villages, mountain streams and dense vegetation. It also happens to be a shorter route connecting Hongadahalla and Kaginahare view point with Mankanahalli ridge point and Bisle Ghat. I am talking about the seven kilometre single lane concrete road between Attihally village and Mankanahalli ridge point and then onwards another 5 kilometres on a one plus one forest highway road to Bisle Ghat.



There is hardly any traffic on this hidden route with the exception of a few motorcycles or any local car/tractor/autorickshaw. And there are lots of scenic pit stops on this route where you can stop, admire nature’s bounty and do a short photo shoot session. This route is also the kind of place where you can become one with your motorcycle, sing your favourite song while not climbing higher than the third or may be fourth gear and take breaks at picturesque locations at every other bend. You will hardly find many locals here, so whoever you find on your way, it is best to strike a conversation with them and may be check with them to see if you are on the correct track. Sometimes during heavy rains, the electricity grid crashes and with that the telecom grid also suffers and thus works only in patches. Hence, it might be prudent not to always depend on your phone and google maps.



The quiet mountain stream that you happen to cross on this route becomes a raging torrent and a tributary of the Kumaradhara river a bit downstream. If you happen to descend from the Bisle view point towards Kukke Subramanya, you will find this very stream to your right at a bend on the Bisle forest highway and it joins the Kumaradhara river a little bit more downstream to your left. This river begins somewhere in the mountains near Attihally village. This means that if you take this offbeat route, you will keep criss-crossing this mountain stream till it joins the Kumaradhara river, while experiencing some amazing nature and waterscapes.



This region of Malenadu is still not as developed as the other parts and thankfully due to that, mother nature here still dons her best look. If you love the monsoons and the Western Ghats, you have to try this gorgeous offbeat motorcycling route in Malenadu between Attihally village and Bisle ghat. It is a monsoon paradise that will be loved by all kinds of travelers, especially motorcyclists and cyclists. I cannot rave enough about this motorcycling route.



How to reach there:

If you are traveling from Bangalore, take the NH 75 to Sakleshpur via Kunigal, Channarayapatna and Hassan. From Sakleshpur, take the Kudrasthe road to Bachalli via Anemahal, Janekere, Byakaravalli and Hethur. And from Bachalli, head straight to Attihally village. The total distance should be about 266 kms.

There is also an alternate route from Channarayapatna via Holenarasipura, Arkalgud, Shanivarasanthe and Kudrasthe. This route carries lesser traffic, but the roads are broken in patches, but ideal for motorcycles.



Best season to visit:

This route is best experienced during the monsoons when the clouds descend on to the road, the water bodies are full and the surrounding nature is dressed in fresh green. If you don’t enjoy the rains too much, you can aim to visit this route right after the rains (say September and October) when the weather will be drier and cooler and the nature will still be extremely pretty.



Where to stay:

There are lots of places to stay in this region. Most premium properties are located closer to Malalli Falls, while really basic homestays can be found near Kudrasthe. For mid-range to entry luxury options, you can try the one at Attihally village, on the Bisle forest main highway and on the Kudrasthe – Sakleshpur highway.

Two of my favourite places to stay in this region are ‘The Malnad Homestay’ and ‘Elemane Farms’. Both these properties are managed by the same family. ‘The Malnad Homestay’ is more basic, but you get to stay with the family and get treated to lip smacking food at every meal. The Elemane Farms is more premium and you get to stay in the middle of coffee and cardamom plantations.



Where to eat:

There are only two places to eat on this route. One is a tiny shop at Attihally village and the other is right before the Bisle forest check post. At both places, you will find hot beverages and may be a snack or two. Don’t expect to find proper meals here. For proper meals, you will either need to backtrack till Kudrasthe or go forward till Kukke Subramanya.

If you wish to experience the traditional food of Malenadu, you should choose some good local homestays in the region. My favourite here is ‘The Malnad Homestay’ at Attihally village.



Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Kaginahare View Point: A green paradise especially during the monsoons

2) Mookanamane Waterfalls: Hidden amidst pristine forests of Malnad, Karnataka

3) Bisle Ghat: The butterfly forest of India

4) Malalli Falls: Coorg’s prettiest waterfall

5) Trek to Yedakumeri Railway Bridge: Lost in a green world

6) Bisle Beauty Spot: A monsoon paradise and a top motorcycling route

7) Kumaraparvatha Trek: One of the most gorgeous monsoon treks in this region

8) Kukke Subramanya Temple: A popular pilgrimage site on the banks of the Kumaradhara river

9) Manjarabad Fort: A star shaped massive fort built by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century

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