Thottikallu

Located near Bangalore, Thottikallu Falls or TK Falls is a very popular spot for trekking. The path that leads to the falls is very much in-demand among the biker groups and is popular for rough-bike rides. One can take a four-wheeler or two-wheeler to get to the falls.

Thottikallu Falls is gradually becoming a very popular place and often people come here to get rid of their busy lives hustle and bustle. Thottikallu Falls is also called as “Swarna Mukhi Falls” or “Golden Face” falls. The reason being that often during the daytime, the sunlight directly falls and shines on the waterfall making it look like a golden waterfall. 

The falls are surrounded by serene beauty with mild breeze blowing and along with the mesmerizing mellow sound of the leaves. Near the waterfalls, there is also a temple under a big tree which is dedicated to Lord Muneshwara. You can always rest yourself in the temple and offer your prayers. 

There are a lot of people who stay near the waterfall and you may often see them near the temple.  Thottikallu Falls is actually an amalgamation of two adjacent waterfalls. One of them has wide falls and results in a wide shower and the other fall is a quick, narrow fall.

 Since the spot is famous for trekking, many trekkers also take a shower under the splendid waterfalls. For people who are opting to trek to the falls, you will come across a hill on your path. Take a rest on the hill and inhale the scenic view of the waterfalls, forests and the magnificent sun.

The best time to visit Thottikallu Falls is during or post-monsoon as the waterfalls start to flow on their fullest (October -March). If you are planning to visit the falls during summers, don’t. The falls are majorly dry during summers and one would not be able to embrace the real beauty of this place.

The falls are open 24hrs a day but it is advisable not to visit the place at night. Since it would be dark, you may not be able to find the path. 

Location: Off Kanakapura Road, Bangalore. Thottikallu waterfalls are at a distance of 35 km from Bangalore

Timing: Not too early in the morning and not too late in the night. You should visit the falls between 6 am to 6 pm. 

Price: There is no entry fee but you may have to pay for the parking charges.

Places to eat near Thottikallu Falls -

Karavali Biryani Mane-The restaurant is located around a couple of kilometers from Thottikallu waterfalls. Karavali Biryani Mane is known for its seafood and is not only popular in the region but also known for its taste in Bangalore. 

Shivaji Military Restaurant-This restaurant serves the best biryani in the region and it always has people waiting in a queue. Been in the region for more than 52 years, the hotel is a popular spot for lunch and evening snacks. 

Mutton Biryani here is the most popular amongst all the biryanis cooked here. The restaurant is close to Thottikallu Falls and serves food at reasonable prices. 

Village -Village, the name itself represents its food style. The restaurant serves classic and authentic food straight from the villages. It is known for its buffet-style service where one can get a taste of all the mouth-watering dishes. 

The restaurant serves delicious dishes, some of them are - Pani Puri, Jodhpuri Aloo, Bhaigan (Brinjal) Curry and Momos. Other than its village-style food, the place also has a village themed ambiance. 

Jalpaan-The restaurant serves Indian and Asian dishes with a blend of the restaurants typical taste. Jalpaan is famous for its North Indian food and is a hotspot for local parties.

The restaurant is a bit expensive but the food served here is famous for its taste and quality. 

Tips for visiting Thottikallu Falls

1. The place is surrounded by many animals and mainly by monkeys on the base of the waterfalls, so be alert and take care of your belongings.

2. Many locations near the falls are dirty because of the absence of dustbins in the area. From wrappers to alcohol bottles, one will find many things littered around. 

It is advised to carry dustbin bags and throw your garbage in them and dispose of them off in a safer place. 

3. Carry an extra pair of clothes (even if you are not willing to take the showers) because the falls are so mesmerizing that you’ll definitely feel to take a dip in them.

4. Carry sufficient bottles of water and also carry some basic medicines. 

After getting down at the Bangalore Airport, you can take a bus from Banashankari Bus station to Nallakkana Doddy Bus station. From Nallakunta Bus station, the waterfalls are within walking distance. If you are hiring a cab or taking a private vehicle, you can take the Bangalore-Mysore road and then enter the NICE Bangalore-Mysore expressway.

After that, you can take the Kanakpura road, keep on driving and take a left from Saaluhunese Bus stop and continue driving till you see the Gulakamale Lake. Take a left from the lake and soon you will see Thottallu Falls parking arena.