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Abbey Falls (Abbi Falls in Kannada) is the most visited waterfall in Coorg, the coffee-growing hill district of Karnataka. A mountain stream in the early reaches of the Kaveri system drops about 70 feet over a wide, dark rock face into a pool, framed by thick green slopes. It lies only a few kilometres from Madikeri town – Karnataka Tourism gives about 6 km, the district administration about 9 km – which makes it an easy half-day outing.
In British times the falls was known as Jessie Falls, reportedly after the daughter of a British officer. The land around it was later developed into coffee and spice plantations, and the walk to the falls still passes through private estates.
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The walk and the hanging bridge
From the parking area at the entrance, a paved path and steps lead down through coffee bushes, pepper vines and tall shade trees to the falls. It is a walk of about 5 to 10 minutes going down; the climb back is short but steep, so take your time.
The main viewpoint is a hanging bridge built across the gorge, facing the falls. From here you get the full width of the water and, in the monsoon, a fine mist drifting across the bridge. Expect a crowd on the bridge at weekends; mornings are quieter.
When to go
Abbey Falls is fed by Coorg’s heavy south-west monsoon. It is at its most powerful from about July to September and still flows well after the monsoon, into December; Karnataka Tourism suggests July to December as the ideal period. In the dry months from February to May the flow drops sharply and the falls can look thin.
In the peak monsoon the roads, steps and bridge are wet and slippery and leeches are common on the path, so wear closed shoes. During very heavy rain or landslide warnings in Kodagu, access to sights can be restricted at short notice.
Rules and safety
- No bathing or swimming: Karnataka Tourism states that bathing or swimming in Abbey Falls is not allowed. The current at the base is strong.
- Stay on the path: the surrounding land is private plantation; don’t wander into the estates or pick coffee or pepper.
- Footwear: wear shoes with grip, especially from June to September.
- Parking: parking near the entrance is limited, and the last stretch of road is narrow. Our driver drops you at the gate and waits nearby.
- Litter: carry back plastic bottles and wrappers.
Combining Abbey Falls with Madikeri
Because it is so close to town, Abbey Falls fits easily into a day around Madikeri with Raja’s Seat, a viewpoint about 7 km away according to Karnataka Tourism. Further out, Karnataka Tourism lists Dubare Elephant Camp, Kaveri Nisargadhama and the Golden Temple (the Tibetan monastery) within about 30 to 40 km, and Talakaveri, the source of the Kaveri, about 50 km away.
Coorg is also a good place to learn about coffee. Many homestays sit on working estates and can show you how coffee and pepper are grown and processed.
Visiting from Pondicherry
Coorg is about 555 km from Pondicherry, a full day’s drive of around 11 to 12 hours, usually via Bengaluru or Mysore. Most travellers break the journey at Mysore. Our Coorg and Chikmagalur coffee trail includes Abbey Falls with a car and driver. For more ideas, see our waterfalls and tea and coffee plantations pages.
Frequently asked questions
What are Abbey Falls timings?
Karnataka Tourism lists entry from 9 AM to 5 PM at the time of writing. Check before you go, as timings can change and access may be restricted in very heavy rain.
Can you swim or bathe at Abbey Falls?
No. Bathing and swimming are not allowed, and the current at the base is strong. You view the falls from the hanging bridge.
How far is Abbey Falls from Madikeri?
Only a few kilometres – Karnataka Tourism gives about 6 km and the Kodagu district administration about 9 km – roughly 20 minutes by car, then a short walk.
When is the best time to visit Abbey Falls?
July to December, when the falls is in full flow after the monsoon. In summer the flow is much weaker.