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Waterfalls

Koosalli Waterfalls

Byndoor Taluk · Udupi District

Sculpted deep within the rugged terrain of the Byndoor hinterlands, Koosalli Waterfalls—locally called Abbi Falls or Abbigundi by regional villagers—is a magnificent six-tiered natural wonder where the wild Sankadgundi stream breaks through the dense canopy of the Western Ghats. Plunging from a staggering cumulative height of roughly 470 feet, the water tears down a series of stepped rocky amphitheaters, creating an intense, thunderous roar that echoes across the isolated valley. Unlike standard single-drop falls, its charm lies in its sequence—featuring deep emerald rock pools nestled between tiers, most notably a striking pool at the fifth stage. Reaching it demands an adventurous trek traversing boulder-strewn stream paths and dense green foliage, preserving its status as a raw, off-the-grid sanctuary for true explorers.

Koosalli Waterfalls, Byndoor

Koosalli Waterfalls is one of the wild and less-developed natural attractions of Byndoor taluk, hidden among the forests and rocky terrain of the Western Ghats near Koosalli village. Unlike easily accessible waterfalls where you can drive almost to the viewpoint, Koosalli is part of the journey itself. Reaching the falls involves walking through forest, streams and uneven rocky ground.

The waterfall descends through six natural stages with total height of 381ft giving Koosalli a distinctive appearance. The entire cascade drops from a considerable height, with the upper sections disappearing into the surrounding forest. From a distance, the white water cutting through the dark green hillside is particularly striking during the rainy season.
This waterfalls ranked 8th highest waterfalls of Karnataka in terms of height.

The trek to Koosalli

The approach to Koosalli is an important part of the experience. The 4km trekking route passes through dense forest and hilly terrain, with streams and rocky sections along the way. In places, visitors follow the natural watercourse towards the waterfall.
The walk becomes more demanding as you get closer to the higher sections. The rocks can be uneven and slippery, particularly after rain, so Koosalli is better suited to visitors who are comfortable with a forest trek rather than those looking for an easy sightseeing spot.
A local guide who knows the route is useful, especially for first-time visitors. The forest can make the trail difficult to identify in some sections, and the upper stages require considerably more care than the lower viewpoint.

Six levels of waterfall

Koosalli is not a single straight drop. Water travels down the hillside through six successive cascades.
The lower sections are comparatively easier to approach, while reaching the higher levels requires more difficult movement over rocks. The fifth level has a naturally formed deep pool, adding another interesting feature to the waterfall landscape.

Because of the terrain, many visitors are satisfied with experiencing the lower and middle sections rather than attempting every level.

Koosalli during the monsoon

The monsoon completely changes the character of the waterfall.
When the Western Ghats receive heavy rainfall, the streams feeding Koosalli become stronger and the six cascades carry much more water. The surrounding forest also becomes intensely green, making the waterfall look particularly impressive.
At the same time, this is when the rocks and stream crossings become most slippery. Strong water flow can also make some sections unsafe. The safest approach is to avoid entering the water or attempting difficult climbs when conditions are poor.

A waterfall for nature and adventure lovers

Koosalli is best experienced by people who enjoy trekking, forests and untouched natural surroundings. There are no large tourist facilities surrounding the waterfall, and that is part of its appeal.
The walk takes you through a landscape of tall trees, small streams, rocks and the sounds of birds and flowing water. By the time you reach the waterfall, the surroundings feel far removed from the busy coastal highway.
The destination therefore offers something different from the beaches and viewpoints of Byndoor: here, the attraction is the forest journey and the waterfall itself.

Koosalli and Kudumari Falls

Koosalli is also associated with Kudumari Waterfalls, another waterfall in the same broader forest region. The two destinations can be considered together by travellers planning an adventure-focused trip, although each requires its own approach and sufficient time.
Both falls water is joining to same river Sankadgundi river in Toodhalli.
Koosalli is particularly known for its multi-level cascade, while Kudumari has its own distinct waterfall landscape.

Best time to visit

The waterfall has water through much of the year, but the monsoon and the months immediately following it bring the strongest flow and the greenest surroundings. For trekking, conditions after the peak monsoon can be more manageable than during periods of continuous heavy rain.
Visitors should plan enough time for the trek rather than treating Koosalli as a quick roadside stop.

Reaching Koosalli

Koosalli is located near Koosalli village in Byndoor taluk. The approach traditionally involves travelling towards the interior from the Shiroor side and continuing through the smaller roads towards the forest. The final portion is on foot.
The exact trekking approach can vary with local conditions, forest access and seasonal changes, so visitors should check the current route locally before starting the walk.

What makes Koosalli special?

Koosalli is special because it has remained a forest waterfall rather than a heavily developed tourist attraction. The six-stage cascade, dense Western Ghats vegetation, streams and rocky trail give the place an adventurous character.
For someone exploring Byndoor beyond its beaches and temples, Koosalli offers a completely different experience—a journey into the forest ending at a spectacular natural waterfall hidden in the hills.

At a glance

Timings
8am-4pm
Entry Fees
50rs
Distance from Byndoor
19km
Get directions See it in the guide

How to reach

🚗 By road: From Shiroor take Toodhalli road in own vehicle or catch regular Auto from Shiroor market to Toodhalli.

🚌 By bus: Morning and evening one bus only from Byndoor to Toodhalli.

🚆 By train: Nearest Railway station Shiroor Railway Station about 13km (local) and Byndoor Mookambika Road Railway Station about 22km (express).

✈️ By air: Mangalore International Airport about 145km

The trek

Distance
4km
Duration
3-4 hours round trip
Difficulty
Difficult
Terrain
Forest path, hill climb, rocky near falls.
🟠 Leeches Leeches are common here through the monsoon. Worst during July to November Wear closed shoes and long socks, carry salt or tobacco, and check your ankles at each stop. They are harmless — just persistent.

Best time to visit

October – January (post-monsoon): Falls has enough water flow during this time. Best time to visit.

June – September (monsoon): Dangerous to trek and visit near falls in monsoon.

February – May (summer): Uanble to see beauty of falls. Little flow of water.

In short: October to March

Visitor information

GuidesAvailable at Toodhalli village
Mobile networkNot available
Nearest ATMShiroor
RestroomsNot available

Location

Yadthare forest region

Places usually visited on the same trip.

Kudumari Waterfalls waterfalls Onakodlu Mahalingeshwara Temple temples
Timings, fees and availability change. Please confirm locally before travelling. Carry your litter back with you — Byndoor has few bins outside town.