Hebbe Falls

Hebbe Falls in Chikmagalur (celebrated across Karnataka as one of the most celebrated and medicinal freshwater cataracts in South India, a colossal 550 foot two tiered waterfall plunging down steep basalt cliffs within a private coffee estate inside the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary near Kemmanagundi), located in Chikmagalur in Karnataka, stands as the main attraction of the Baba Budan Giri mountain range.

Originating from high altitude natural mountain springs in the untouched Kemmanagundi hills, the stream flows through dense Shola rainforests rich in wild Ayurvedic herbs before cascading in two distinct dramatic stages: the upper Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and the lower Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls).

It's the home of the therapeutic natural plunge pool where mineral rich waters (infused with native forest medicinal herbs) are believed to soothe skin ailments and heal joint aches, the adrenaline fueled 4x4 open top jeep safari navigating 13 km of bumpy estate tracks, rocky riverbed crossings, and steep forest ridges from Kemmanagundi base, the scenic 1 km forest trek from the jeep drop point crossing two gentle stream fords surrounded by giant ferns and wild cardamom groves, the impressive amphitheater of vertical black rock cliffs draped in hanging moss and misty water spray, and an intensely invigorating, raw wilderness atmosphere where roaring mountain torrents provide deep physical rejuvenation and peace.

It represents a rich Western Ghats montane hydrology, Ayurvedic herb water traditions, and forest adventure ecotourism where 550 foot tiered cascades, Dodda Hebbe drops, Chikka Hebbe pools, and 4x4 jeep trails unite in Hebbe Falls Chikmagalur.

Located 10 km downhill from Kemmanagundi hill station and 65 km north of Chikmagalur town, it sits 35 km from Tarikere, 40 km from Birur, 210 km from Mangaluru, and 275 km from Bengaluru, accessible by road to Kemmanagundi followed by a 4x4 forest jeep safari and a short guided foot trek.

550 Ft Two Stages: Dodda Hebbe & Chikka Hebbe

The upper stage, Dodda Hebbe, plunges over a sheer vertical precipice, crashing onto a wide rock terrace before tumbling as Chikka Hebbe into a crystalline plunge pool.

Local lore and Ayurvedic practitioners prize the waterfall's waters, which filter through hundreds of mountain medicinal plant roots before reaching the riverbed.

Truth is, dipping your feet into the cool, crystal clear plunge pool at Chikka Hebbe after the bumpy jeep ride washes away all travel fatigue in minutes.

4x4 Off Road Jeep Safari & Stream Crossings

The Estate Safari: Authorized 4x4 jeeps ferry visitors through private coffee estates and rugged forest tracks, splashing through shallow mountain streams.

The 1 Km Nature Walk: From the jeep parking point, travelers follow a scenic 15 minute shaded dirt path across wooden logs and stepping stones to reach the pool.

Kemmanagundi & North Chikmagalur Circuit

Kemmanagundi Royal Hill Loop: Hebbe Falls pairs smoothly with Z Point (12 km), Kalhatti Falls (18 km), and the landscaped Raj Bhavan gardens.

Chikmagalur Heritage Circuit: Connects with Mullayanagiri (55 km), Baba Budan Giri (50 km), Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (45 km), and historic coffee estates.

After bathing in the therapeutic pools of Hebbe Falls, hike along Z Point in Kemmanagundi, visit Kalhatti Falls, or explore coffee plantations across Chikmagalur.