Sharavati Circuit: September 2025

I saw the route for this cycling tour and thought, been there, done that. I've trekked Kodachadri, seen Jog Falls. But I'd never cycled here, and I'm pretty fond of this area. It was an overnight trip from Bangalore, so that sealed the deal. Little did I know how much this trip would pack into such a short time.

Day 1: Talaguppa

We got to Talaguppa early. Decided to do a test ride to the nearby Husur Falls. Felt good on the bike – perfect temperature, no humidity. The falls were close to our hotel, so we got there quickly. It's a decent spot, calm, though the falls themselves are pretty shallow.

Back at the hotel, after lunch, we headed to Jog Falls. I'd been there before, but this time? Wow. It was spectacular. Seeing it up close was incredible; way impressive than my last visit.

Day 2: Kodachadri Base

Our plan was a loop around the Sharavati backwaters, aiming for Kodachadri. Long day ahead.

We started early, breakfast in Talaguppa. The road was remote and serene – no traffic whatsoever. Again, the temperature was perfect for cycling. Drizzly, lush green everywhere, huge betel nut trees. A real treat to cycle through.

We stopped at the Ikkeri Aghoreshwara Temple. The detail in the 16th-century carvings was amazing. We had our packed lunch outside.

After some highway cycling, we hit the ferry across the backwaters towards Kodachadri. Beyond that, it was mostly remote, with a few climbs. Green everywhere, a bit drizzly and misty – a really pleasant ride. We reached the Kodachadri base just before dawn.

Day 3: Hidlumane Falls

This was the best day. Early morning climb to the falls. A bit of off-roading, which I loved – tough, but good. A short hike to the falls. I've been here before, but the falls still took my breath away. A few changes here and there, but mostly an easy hike. After soaking in the falls, we walked back. Lunch at our stay.

Then, a jeep ride to the top of the Kodachadri trek. Bumpy, but not as bad as I remembered. A short hike to the top, but unfortunately, it was cloudy, so the view was obscured. I remember the view from my last visit – stunning when it's clear.

Day 4: Jog Falls

Long final day. Cycled towards Jog Falls – some downhill, some uphill. Pleasant ride. I was feeling good, in a good rhythm, breezing along until we hit a nasty climb after lunch.

More off-roading to catch a ferry, then glorious downhill back to our destination.

Unlike my longer, harder trips, I didn't feel that sense of accomplishment afterward. It was just a good time, short and sweet – exactly what I needed this year. I should do more of these shorter trips; they're a lot of fun. I'll definitely be back.