Also see: Waterfalls of the Western Ghats – A Photography Tour
Pratap J, our photography mentor and landscape photography specialist writes about photographing some of the prettiest waterfalls in Karnataka’s Western Ghats. Text and photographs by Pratap.
The seductive beauty of flowing water on hard rock can easily transform anyone into a nature lover. After the dry and hot summer infamous in India, monsoon rejuvenates the mountains and plains alike. Every year, from June through September, the rains are eagerly anticipated by those who are dependent on them. And for photographers, the monsoon brings ample opportunities for photography. While wildlife photographers go in search of newborn flora, fauna, landscape photographers find delight in capturing the lush green mountain sides and streams that signify the rejuvenation of mother earth.
Sometime during the end of this yearly phenomenon called the monsoons, a bunch of photography-enthusiasts head out with Darter to shoot the waterfalls of the Western Ghats. In and around the town of Sirsi, innumerable streams flow joyously, without any care in the world. With Yellapur, a town in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka as their base, they visit no less than three waterfalls in a span of two days. The first one is the majestic Magod falls. The sheer volume of water falling down in two adjacent locations evokes nothing but fearful respect in anyone who witnesses this natural wonder. With no access to the river, the beauty of Magod falls is enjoyed from a view point conveniently situated at a distance.
Sathodi Falls. Magical place!
Deep inside the jungle, Sathodi falls is another hidden gem that the photographers visit after a bumpy ride on tarmac-less roads. Offering both the thrill of an excursion into the wild, and the chance to witness nature in its purest form, the visit to Sathodi leaves a lasting impression on all visitors. Here, within a short distance, the water that gushes forth from a tall and almost vertical wall of stone quickly turns gentle before lazily flowing into the backwaters that feed the river Kali. Huge boulders perhaps separated from the main landmass eons ago, lay strewn all around to remind us of the power of water.
Unchalli Falls
The third waterfall of interest to this intrepid team of photographers is the graceful Lushington Falls. Locally known as Unchalli Falls, this is the spot where the sacred and ancient river Aghanashini drops from a height of 116 meters. This play between water and gravity ensures that the area is blessed with a constant spray of light mist – an experience that excites senses but which is dangerous to equipment.
Apart from these beautiful locations, these photography enthusiasts also visit some other interesting places around Yellapur. The two days of photography provides tremendous opportunities for learning and fun.
To be part of this exciting trip and to discover more, see Waterfalls of the Western Ghats – A Photography Tour.