Credit: Abhinandan Baloji
About Agumbe Forest
A jewel of western ghat , Agumbe Forest, also referred to as the “Cherrapunji of South India,” is a beautiful place to experience the high rainfall and misty, lush environment.
Rainfall averaging around 7,620 mm (300 inches) annually provides a lush green cover, making it one of the wettest places in india. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, researchers, and adventurers. The forest is also home to the world’s largest venomous lake, the king cobra.
Flora and Fauna of Agumbe Forest
Diverse arrays of wildlife flourish, including Indian elephants, leopards, Malabar pit vipers, and the rare lion-tailed macaque. Its’s home to variety of species that are found nowhere else in the world. Nocturnal animals that come alive at night create a surreal nighttime experience, among which Frogwatching is popular.Agumbe is also known for its rich bird life, including Malabar trogons, hornbills, and drongos.
Agumbe Rainforest Research Station
A premier rainforest conservation centre, Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS) is situated in Agumbe forest It focuses on conservation and study flora and fauna, as well as the overall biodiversity of the forest. It was founded by herpetologist Romulus Whitaker
Nearby attractions
Numerous waterfalls rising in the biodiversity hotspots includes famous waterfalls Jogi Gundi, Barkana, and Onake Abbi Falls. Among these Barkana falls falling from a height of 850 feet (259 metres) is one of the tallest waterfalls in india. Its a major tourist attraction.
Connection with Malgudi Days
It has been understood that the famous TV series Malgudi Day, based on stories by R.K. Narayan, has drawn inspiration from the Agumbe forest.
Medicinal Flora
Agumbe Forest is a treasure for botanical research and traditional medicine. Various herbs and plants used in Ayurvedic medicine known for their medicinal properties are found in the plant species of forests.
The best time to visit
If you want to experience Agumbe’s rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, then you should visit from October to February. During this time, the monsoon is over and the hot, dry summer (March to May) is over.
Map and Location of Agumbe Forest
Mangalore International Airport (96 km) and Udupi Railway Station (53 km) provide connectivity.