India GOWaterfalls near Udupi
Udupi itself is flat coast; its waterfalls are in the Western Ghats to the east and north. The easiest is Jomlu Teertha near Hebri, a short forest walk from the road. Belkal Theertha near Kollur is the tall one and needs a proper trek. The falls are fullest in the monsoon, when the trails are also least safe; the months just after it are the better time to go.
Three falls and how they differ
Distances are from Udupi town. Theertha means sacred water; Karnataka Tourism notes that Belkal Theertha is held holy by the communities around it.
Jomlu Teertha, Nalkuru near Hebri (about 35–40 km east)
The easy one: about half a kilometre of forest path from the parking area, then the Sita river spreads over rock shelves and drops about twenty feet into a wide pool. It is broad and low rather than tall, a place to sit rather than to photograph and leave. There is nothing here beyond a small parking area, so bring water.
Belkal Theertha, Mudoor near Kollur (about 75 km)
The tall one: Karnataka Tourism puts the drop at nearly 300 feet (about 90 m) from Korshi Betta, inside the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, about 10 km from Kollur. The trail from the Mudoor trailhead is 4–5 km each way through forest, with rocky stretches and stream crossings; the tourism board rates it moderate, recommends a local guide from Mudoor and lists a nominal sanctuary fee, payable in cash. No plastic, no loud music inside the sanctuary.
Kudlu Theertha
Karnataka Tourism lists it among Udupi's sights: a fall inside forest, reached by a short trek, also known as Sita Falls. Ask locally about the state of the path before setting out.
When to go
The coast gets most of its year's rain from June to September: around a metre a month in June and July at the nearest IMD station. The falls are full then, but rivers rise fast, rocks are slick and the sanctuary may restrict access to Belkal Theertha in heavy rain.
September to February is the window for Jomlu Teertha; by March the flow thins out. For Belkal Theertha the tourism board's peak season is October to January, when the falls are still strong and the trails reasonably dry. From March to May the water drops sharply. For the year as a whole, see the best time to visit Udupi.
Safety at the falls
- Jomlu Teertha has no railings and the rock shelves are slippery; in heavy monsoon rain the river rises fast enough to make it dangerous.
- At Belkal Theertha, do not swim without asking your guide: water levels and currents change with the season. Do not trek during or just after heavy rain, when forest streams can flood without warning.
- Wear shoes with grip, not sandals, and carry water and something to eat: there are no stalls at either place.
- Mobile signal inside the Mookambika sanctuary is very limited; download an offline map before you go.
What to combine them with
Belkal Theertha pairs with the Kollur Mookambika Temple, about 80 km north of Udupi and 2–2.5 hours each way by road, so the two make one full day. Karnataka Tourism suggests the bus to Kollur from Udupi, then an auto or cab to the Mudoor trailhead, and starting the trek by 8 am. Jomlu Teertha is a half-day outing towards Hebri; for other ideas, see places to visit near Udupi.
FAQ
Which is the easiest waterfall near Udupi?
Jomlu Teertha at Nalkuru near Hebri, about 35–40 km east of Udupi: about half a kilometre of forest path from the parking area to a wide, low fall.
How long is the trek to Belkal Theertha?
About 4–5 km each way from the Mudoor trailhead; Karnataka Tourism estimates 3–4 hours for the round trip. A local guide is recommended.
What is the best time to see waterfalls near Udupi?
Just after the monsoon: September to February for Jomlu Teertha, October to January for Belkal Theertha. In June to September the falls are fullest but the paths are slippery and access can be restricted.
How far is Belkal Theertha from Udupi?
About 75 km, near Kollur in the north of Udupi district; the trailhead is at Mudoor village, about 10 km from Kollur.
Can you swim at the waterfalls?
Check first. At Belkal Theertha the tourism board advises asking your guide before entering the pool; at Jomlu Teertha the rocks are slippery and the river rises fast in heavy rain.
Facts checked: 15 October 2026. Prices and hours are approximate; check locally.
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