Image Source: Indaram Priya
About Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled in the lush Western Ghats of Karnataka, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the region’s most beautiful protected forest landscapes. Named after Lord Someshwara, the presiding deity of the historic Someshwara Temple located within the sanctuary area, this wildlife reserve is known for its rich biodiversity, dense rainforests, scenic waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
The sanctuary is characterized by a remarkable variety of forest types, including tropical wet evergreen forests, west coast semi-evergreen forests, and moist mixed deciduous forests. These diverse ecosystems create an ideal habitat for numerous species of plants, birds, reptiles, and mammals. The region receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon, transforming the landscape into a vibrant green wilderness filled with streams, mist-covered hills, and thick forest canopies.
Located primarily in the Udupi and Shivamogga districts, just south of Agumbe—often referred to as the “Cherrapunji of South India” because of its high rainfall—the sanctuary forms an important ecological corridor with neighboring protected areas such as Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kudremukh National Park. Together, these forests support some of the richest biodiversity found in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO-recognized biodiversity hotspot.
Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary was originally established in 1974 with an area of 88.40 square kilometers. Recognizing its ecological significance, the protected area was expanded in 2011 to approximately 314.25 square kilometers. Today, it serves as a vital refuge for wildlife including tigers, leopards, elephants, gaur, sambar deer, wild dogs, king cobras, Malabar giant squirrels, and a wide variety of endemic birds and amphibians.
One of the sanctuary’s major attractions is the famous Barkana Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in India, which cascades dramatically through the dense forests near Agumbe. The sanctuary is also a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, photographers, and trekkers seeking an authentic Western Ghats experience.
How to Reach
Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is well connected by road and can be accessed through the Udupi–Agumbe route. The nearest major town is Hebri, which serves as the primary gateway to the sanctuary.
By Road:
Hebri is connected by regular bus services from Udupi, Mangaluru, Shivamogga, and Bengaluru. From Hebri, visitors can hire local taxis or use private vehicles to reach various entry points of the sanctuary.
By Rail:
The nearest railway station is at Udupi, located approximately 45–50 kilometers away. Udupi is well connected to major cities such as Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Mumbai, and Kochi.
By Air:
The nearest airport is at Mangaluru, about 95–110 kilometers from the sanctuary. From the airport, visitors can hire taxis or take buses to Hebri and Agumbe.
Best Time to Visit:
October to March is considered the best time to visit, when the weather remains pleasant and wildlife sightings are more common. The monsoon season from June to September offers spectacular greenery and waterfalls but can make forest trails slippery.
Nearby Attractions
Agumbe
Known as the “Rainforest Capital of South India,” Agumbe is famous for its stunning sunsets, rainforest ecosystems, and king cobra conservation efforts.
Barkana Falls
One of India’s tallest waterfalls, Barkana Falls plunges from a height of over 250 meters and offers breathtaking views during and after the monsoon season.
Onake Abbi Falls
A beautiful waterfall hidden within dense forests, accessible through a scenic trek that passes through rich biodiversity zones.
Kudremukh National Park
Located nearby, this national park is renowned for rolling grasslands, mountain peaks, trekking routes, and diverse wildlife.
Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary
A neighboring protected forest known for elephants, leopards, hornbills, and evergreen forests.
Sringeri
A historic temple town situated on the banks of the Tunga River, famous for the ancient Sharada Peetham established by Adi Shankaracharya.
Kundadri Hills
A picturesque hilltop destination offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats and spectacular sunrise and sunset experiences.
Jomlu Teertha Falls
A scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, located near Hebri and popular among nature lovers.
Maps
FAQs
1. Where is Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary located?
It is located in Karnataka’s Udupi and Shivamogga districts within the Western Ghats region, near Agumbe.
2. Why is the sanctuary famous?
The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, dense rainforests, wildlife, waterfalls, and scenic Western Ghats landscapes.
3. When was Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary established?
It was established in 1974 and later expanded significantly in 2011.
4. What animals can be seen in the sanctuary?
Visitors may encounter elephants, leopards, tigers, gaur, sambar deer, wild dogs, giant squirrels, and numerous bird species.
5. Is trekking allowed in the sanctuary?
Certain trekking routes and nature trails are accessible with permission and guidance from forest authorities.
6. What is the best time to visit?
October to March offers the most comfortable weather and good opportunities for wildlife observation.
7. Are there waterfalls inside the sanctuary?
Yes, Barkana Falls and several smaller seasonal waterfalls are located within or near the sanctuary.
8. Is Agumbe part of Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary?
Agumbe lies adjacent to the sanctuary and serves as one of the main access points for visitors.
9. Can birdwatchers visit the sanctuary?
Yes, the sanctuary is a popular destination for birdwatching due to its rich avian diversity and endemic Western Ghats species.
10. Is prior permission required to visit?
Certain forest areas, trekking routes, and wildlife zones may require permission from the Karnataka Forest Department, so visitors should check local regulations before planning their trip.
