Hulikal Ghat: India’s Tallest Waterfall, Scenic Drives, and Hidden Gems Near Manipal

If you're looking for a road trip filled with scenic beauty, cultural richness, and serene spots, Hulikal Ghat is the place to be. Nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, this winding mountain pass offers breathtaking views, cascading waterfalls, vibrant landscapes, and unique attractions. As someone who often takes this route from Manipal, I can say that the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons are the best times to experience its magic.

The Beauty of Monsoons at Hulikal Ghat

During the rainy season, the hills of Hulikal Ghat come alive with streams and waterfalls cascading down the rocky slopes. In some places, water flows over the road itself, making you feel like you’re driving through waterfalls. It’s an exhilarating experience that’s unique to this ghat and a sight you won’t forget. The monsoon transforms this region into a lush green paradise, perfect for a scenic drive or a peaceful getaway.

Kunjikal Falls: A Hidden Wonder

One of Hulikal Ghat’s lesser-known yet fascinating features is Kunjikal Falls, India’s tallest waterfall. Although it is inaccessible due to its location in dense forests and the lack of a proper pathway, Kunjikal Falls adds an element of mystique to the ghat. Listed on Google Maps, this waterfall remains protected and prohibited for visitors, but knowing it exists within the forests makes the journey through Hulikal Ghat even more special.

Sri Vinaayaka Swami Gudi: A Temple in Tranquility

As you ascend the ghat, you’ll come across the Sri Vinaayaka Swami Gudi, a serene temple surrounded by dense greenery. To visit, you’ll need to descend a set of steps, but the peaceful atmosphere and lush surroundings make it worth the effort. During the monsoon, the vibrant greenery enhances the beauty of this spot, making it a perfect place for reflection and calm.

The Hills Painted in Purple

Hulikal Ghat’s slopes are a canvas for nature’s artistry, especially during the post-monsoon season. The rocks lining the hill are covered in blooming purple flowers, stretching from the bottom to the very top. This stunning display is a visual treat, creating a dramatic and colorful backdrop that makes every journey through the ghat feel magical.

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Ghati Chandikamba Devasthana: A Spiritual Highlight

At the top of Hulikal Ghat lies the Shri Ghati Chandikamba Devasthana, a popular pilgrimage site and a major attraction for travelers. Many visitors come to the ghat specifically to seek blessings at this temple, which is revered by locals and tourists alike. The temple’s location, perched atop the hill, offers not just spiritual solace but also stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

A Viewpoint Overlooking Kundapur and Beyond

One of the newer additions to Hulikal Ghat is a scenic viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding region, including Kundapur. From this vantage point, you can see vast stretches of green hills, distant towns, and even catch a glimpse of the Metkalgudde Shri Mahaganapati Temple in the distance. This viewpoint is a perfect spot for taking a break during your drive, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of the area and take some memorable photographs.

A Road Trip to Remember

Hulikal Ghat is not just a road—it’s an experience. From the cascading waterfalls that flow over the rocks and onto the road to the spiritual temples that offer moments of peace and reflection, every part of this journey is unique. The monsoon season is the best time to visit, as the rains transform the landscape into a lush, green paradise. Whether you’re a nature lover, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone looking for a scenic drive, Hulikal Ghat offers something for everyone.

So, the next time you’re near Manipal or Kundapur, don’t miss the chance to take a drive through Hulikal Ghat. It’s a journey that will stay with you long after you’ve left, and one that showcases the best of Karnataka’s natural and spiritual beauty.